GIS Field Technician

City of Galveston; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Galveston is seeking a qualified candidate for the GIS Technician role. The ideal applicant will collect field data, assist with drainage studies, and conduct inspections for public works projects. This position requires knowledge of GIS systems, survey practices, and a high school diploma with at least two years of relevant experience.

Successful candidates will also have a Texas driver's license and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

Qualifications

• 2 years’ experience in GIS operations or equivalent.
• Possession of a valid Texas driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Collects field data on City Infrastructure.
• Assists with drainage studies and topographic surveys.
• Inspects construction of flat work in the right of way.
• Reviews design plans for utility permits.
• Communicates deficiencies in permit applications.

Skills

Handling situations requiring diplomacy

Providing efficient customer service

Operating GPS equipment

Using survey equipment

Communicating effectively

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

GIS systems

GPS equipment

Job description

Under general supervision, collects various field data using portable Geographic Information System (GIS) equipment; performs inspections of flatwork in the right-of-way; and provides assistance to the Chief Surveyor in drainage studies.

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Collects field data on City Infrastructure; performs utility locates; and locates fire hydrants, fiber optic cables, and sanitary sewer manholes.
• Assists the Chief Surveyor with drainage studies; sets grades for culverts; and performs topographic surveys.
• Inspects the construction of flat work in the right of way, including driveways, sidewalks, and curbs.
• Reviews design plans, GIS, and Google Earth for processing right‑of‑way construction and utility permits in accordance with Engineering Standards.
• Communicate deficiencies in permit applications and design plans with customers for speedy resolution.
• Review revised plans and specifications to ensure comments from Engineering are incorporated.
• Field evaluate utility conflicts from 811 call locate field markings and GIS infrastructure maps and as‑builts.
• Perform ROW construction Permit inspections for drainage, flat work inspections for sidewalks, driveways, curb and gutters for conformance with approved ROW Permit Design Plans and codes.
• Approve or reject concrete pre‑pours.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Galveston and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work‑related issues and City information; and performs other duties as required or assigned.
• Employees may at any time be required to work in order to provide for the safety and well‑being of the general public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services, in the event of an emergency.

Knowledge

• City organization, operations, policies, and procedures.
• GIS systems.
• GPS equipment.
• Surveying principles and practices.
• Driveway, sidewalk and curb construction practices and methods.
• Water and traffic utilities.
• Right of way construction standards.
• Business and personal computers, and spreadsheet software applications.

Skills

• Handling situations requiring diplomacy, fairness, firmness, and sound judgment.
• Providing efficient customer service.
• Operating and maintaining sophisticated GPS equipment.
• Using various hand tools and survey equipment.
• Understanding and applying City policies and procedures and applicable federal and state regulations.
• Explaining City policies and procedures.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with all levels within the City.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

Minimum Qualifications

High School diploma or equivalent AND two years’ experience in GIS operations; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

License and Certification

Possession of a valid Texas driver’s license.

Physical Demands and Working Environment

Work is performed both in an indoor and outdoor work environment. May be exposed to extreme weather conditions. May be required to lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Galveston is an equal opportunity employer and will consider only the qualifications of the applicants. The City does not tolerate any form of discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or physical/mental disability in employment or provision services.