Geographic Information Systems Technician II

City of Spokane; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Spokane is seeking a GIS Technician to maintain and support departmental geographic information systems and databases, including data creation, manipulation, and output. This description covers activities and levels of work required, and is not a complete list of duties.

The candidate will work with GIS software to digitize data, validate accuracy, and generate maps for infrastructure projects. Qualifications include an associate degree in GIS or related field and at least two years of

Qualifications

• Associate degree in geographic information systems, geography, engineering, computer science, or related field.
• Two years of GIS-related IT experience.
• Equivalency options may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Performs complex spatial data processing using GIS software to digitize and enter data.
• Creates, maintains, updates, queries, and views GIS data for easy access and retrieval; performs QC.
• Provides technical support assisting GIS users with questions or problems in retrieving GIS information.
• Generates maps from data and converts hardcopy drawings into electronic formats.
• Verifies and updates GIS data layers and databases; maintains metadata for spatial data layers.
• Assists and provides processed spatial data including reports, maps, and charts to interested parties.
• Acts as a liaison between user groups and IT to communicate problems and solutions.
• Maintains technical procedures and documentation; reads and understands complex materials.
• Provides basic training and guidance to GIS software users.
• Performs related work as required.

Skills

GIS software

Data processing

Spatial data

Technical support

Metadata

Education

Associate degree in GIS

Tools

ArcGIS

Geodatabase

Cartography

Job description

Performs complex technical work in maintaining and supporting departmental geographic information systems and databases, including data creation, manipulation, and output.

This description was prepared to indicate the kinds of activities and levels of work difficulty required of positions in this class. It is not intended as a complete list of specific duties and responsibilities.

• Performs complex spatial data processing work utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) software and hardware to digitize and enter data.
• Performs field checks and compiles facilities data using field methods.
• Creates, maintains, updates, queries, and views GIS data to provide easier access and retrieval of processed information. Performs quality control checks and ensures data accuracy.
• Provides technical support assisting GIS users with questions or problems in retrieving GIS information.
• Generates maps from data in order to provide information regarding different infrastructure systems. Converts hardcopy-engineering drawings into electronic formats.
• Verifies, corrects, and updates GIS data layers and databases utilizing coordinate geometry and graphics to correspond with the information on design drawings, maps, plans, and reports and prepares and maintains metadata for all spatial data layers and databases.
• Assists and provides interested parties with specific processed spatial data including reports, maps, and charts.
• Acts as a liaison between user groups and the Information Technology unit to communicate problems and possible solutions.
• Maintains technical procedures, documentation, operational instructions and/or project or work order status. Reads and understands technical or other complex materials required for the job.
• Provides basic training and guidance to users of GIS software and data.
• Performs related work as required.

Open-Entry Requirements:

• Education: Associate degree from an accredited college or university in geographic information systems, geography, engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Experience: Two years of GIS-related IT experience.
• Equivalency: We may accept different combinations of education and experience. We welcome job seekers with relevant backgrounds to apply.

Licenses and Certifications:

• A valid driver’s license is required, to be maintained throughout employment.

Applicants must first meet the minimum qualifications to be invited to take the examination. Those who pass the examination will then go on the hiring list.

The examination will consist of the following:

• Training and Experience Evaluation 50%
• Multiple Choice & Short Answer 50%

This is an online examination that will require a computer. If you do not have access to a computer, please notify Civil Service so that one may be provided. Computer reservations can also be made through your local public library.

Examination instructions and links will be emailed to qualified applicants on September 16th 2026. The testing window is September 17th – 21st. Please note: The email will come from City of Spokane ([e-mail])

Multiple Choice

• ArcGIS Software
• Cartography
• Data Editing and Geoprocessing
• Geodatabase
• Map Projections and Scaling
• Spatial Analysis

Short Answer Items:

Short answer items are open-ended and require test takers to create their own responses, typically in one word, a phrase, or a few sentences. Unlike multiple-choice items that offer ready-made options, or essay items that call for extended writing, short answer items ask test takers to express specific knowledge, skills, and/or abilities directly.

Training & Experience Evaluation:

A Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E) is a written test where the applicant answers structured questions based on their previous experience and training or education. Please view this video for tips to help you fill out the T&E.

For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website.

Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory, or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity within our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status, genetic information, veteran/military status, or disability status. As a Fair Chance Employer, City of Spokane does not conduct initial background screening for non-public safety positions.