Data Scientist, GIS

Aviva Canada; Markham; Hybrid; CAD 95,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading insurance company located in Markham, Ontario, is seeking a GIS Specialist to integrate geospatial solutions for enhancing pricing, underwriting, and risk management. Candidates should have a degree in relevant fields and at least 3 years of GIS analytics experience. Strong skills in Python and tools such as QGIS or GeoServer are essential. This position offers a competitive salary range of $95,000 to $115,000, a hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Retirement savings plan

Health benefits

Competitive vacation package

Qualifications

• University degree; Master's degree is an asset.
• Minimum of 3 years in GIS analytics.
• Proficiency in Python and software engineering practices.

Responsibilities

• Collect, process and analyze complex geospatial datasets.
• Create high-quality maps, dashboards, and visualizations.
• Support spatial risk assessments and catastrophe modelling.

Skills

GIS analytics

Data analysis

Python

Spatial data analysis

Communication skills

Education

University degree in Geography, GIS, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics

Tools

QGIS

GeoServer

Postgres/PostGIS

Job description

Overview

Experience Aviva. At Aviva Canada, we put people first—our employees, our customers, and our communities. We’re proud of a culture built on care, inclusion, and collaboration, where your voice matters and your growth is supported. We’re not just about insurance; we’re about making a real difference by protecting what matters most.

The Opportunity

Join a passionate team of data scientists, actuaries, and engineers. Data analysis is essential for decision-making at every level of our organization. The insurance industry is undergoing major changes, and you have the chance to be at the forefront of this data-driven technological revolution.

The GIS Specialist will support the delivery of geospatial solutions that inform pricing, underwriting, and risk management decisions. Working alongside Data Science, Pricing, UW, and Exposure Management, this role provides technical expertise in spatial data analysis, mapping, and modelling to drive business insights.

What You’ll Do

• Collect, process and analyze complex geospatial datasets relevant to insurance operations and transform into actionable insights and recommendations to support pricing, underwriting and product strategies.
• Create high-quality maps, dashboards and visualizations for business users.
• Support spatial risk assessments, catastrophe modelling and exposure analysis.
• Communicate model results and findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with business and engineering partners to enhance geospatial modelling solutions and tools and integrate with business operations.
• Support innovation and continuous improvement in the use of geospatial data and analytics.
• Stay current with advancements in GIS technology and best practices.

What You’ll Bring

• University degree in Geography, GIS, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field (Master’s degree is an asset).
• Proficiency in English, including excellent oral and written communication.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in GIS analytics (QGIS, GEoserver, Postgres /PostGIS) and working with large datasets (industry or academic setting).
• Proficiency in Python and best practices in software engineering (modularity, code reuse, documentation).
• Strong analytical skills and a keen interest in geospatial concepts within insurance pricing.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
• Collaborative mindset and eagerness to learn and contribute within a high-performing team.

What Makes You Stand Out

• Knowledge of flood modelling and open-source GIS tools is an asset.
• Proficiency in French (verbal and written communication skills) is considered an asset.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms and CI/CD tools.
• Knowledge of advanced machine learning and optimization techniques.
• Experience in the insurance or financial sector is an asset.

What You’ll Get

• The salary band for this position ranges from $95,000 to $115,000. Individual salary is determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills and experience, as well as internal equity.
• Rewards package including base compensation, eligibility for annual bonus, retirement savings, share plan, health benefits, personal wellness, and volunteer opportunities.
• Hybrid flexible work model.
• Career development opportunities.
• Support for professional development education.
• Competitive vacation package with the option to purchase 5 extra days off per year.
• Employee-driven programs focused on gender, LGBTQ+, origins, diversity, and inclusion.
• Corporate wellness programs to support our employees’ physical and mental health.

This job advertisement is for an existing vacancy which has been posted both internally & externally. Aviva Canada may use AI tools to assist in recruitment. Aviva Canada welcomes applications from all qualified individuals and provides accommodations for persons with disabilities at all stages of the hiring process and during employment. If you require an accommodation during the interview or hiring process, please contact your Aviva Talent Acquisition Partner so that an appropriate accommodation can be arranged.