GIS Intern

Smith Seckman Reid, Inc; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

Paid overtime

Job summary

Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. (SSR) seeks a GIS Intern to gain hands-on experience supporting project teams with mapping, spatial data management, and GIS analysis.

You will work with seasoned GIS professionals and project managers while using industry-standard GIS tools on real-world engineering projects. The internship emphasizes learning SSR's GIS standards, collaborating with engineers and field staff, and developing skills in data collection, QA/QC, and deliverables under supervision.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Geography, GIS, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Coursework using GIS software, preferably Esri ArcGIS.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting and organizing field data using GPS and other field collection methods.
• Help create, edit, and maintain GIS spatial data, maps, and base layers.
• Support QA/QC review of datasets for accuracy, completeness, currency, and consistency.
• Assist with converting, organizing, and documenting geospatial data and maintaining metadata.
• Support project teams with GIS analysis and the preparation of maps, graphs, and tabular outputs.
• Aid in the development of project deliverables and GIS workflows under the guidance of experienced GIS professionals.

Skills

GIS data management

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Written communication

Education

Pursuing Geography/GIS degree

Tools

Esri ArcGIS Pro

QGIS

Python

SQL

Job description

At SSR, we're more than a leading engineering design, consulting, and planning firm-we're a team of owners committed to solving complex projects and delivering innovative solutions for facility and infrastructure challenges. With locations across the U.S. and expertise spanning diverse markets and services, our collaborative approach empowers us to build lasting partnerships with each other, our clients, and our communities.

We believe high performance and a people-first culture go hand in hand. As an owner from day one, our colleagues thrive in an environment that values accountability, celebrates achievement, and supports personal and professional growth. As owners, we take pride in our work and in each other-driving results while fostering a workplace where everyone feels seen, supported, and inspired.

Want to hear directly from our team? Visit http://www.ssr-inc.com/life-at-ssr and explore our culture on LinkedIn and Instagram.

What You'll Do

As a GIS Intern, you'll gain hands-on experience supporting SSR's project teams through mapping, spatial data management, and GIS analysis. You'll work alongside experienced GIS professionals and project managers while developing practical skills using industry-standard GIS tools and technologies.

• Assist with collecting and organizing field data using GPS and other field collection methods.
• Help create, edit, and maintain GIS spatial data, maps, and base layers.
• Support QA/QC review of datasets for accuracy, completeness, currency, and consistency.
• Assist with converting, organizing, and documenting geospatial data and maintaining metadata.
• Support project teams with GIS analysis and the preparation of maps, graphs, and tabular outputs.
• Aid in the development of project deliverables and GIS workflows under the guidance of experienced GIS professionals.
• Learn and apply SSR's GIS standards, processes, and best practices.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, field staff, and other team members to support project needs.
• Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.
• Assist team members with preparation and execution of tasks on assigned projects across your discipline (e.g., Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, HR, IT, Marketing).
• Apply industry standards and SSR policies under the guidance of project leads; document work with accuracy and completeness.
• Attend team meetings; capture notes, actions, and due dates; follow up to keep tasks moving.
• Seek opportunities to expand knowledge and skills; share recent developments or coursework insights with the team.
• Participate in internal/external trainings, lunchandlearns, and site walks to build practical experience.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors and peers; ask questions proactively and elevate blockers early.

Who We're Looking For

Minimum Requirements

• Currently pursuing a degree in Geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Coursework or academic experience using GIS software, preferably Esri ArcGIS.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Esri ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, or other GIS platforms through coursework, projects, or previous internship experience.
• Familiarity with various spatial analysis techniques.
• Exposure to GPS data collection or mobile field mapping.
• Basic knowledge of Python, SQL, Arcade or other programming/data management tools.
• Experience working with geospatial data formats (e.g., shapefiles, feature classes), databases, or metadata.
• Previous internship, project, research, or academic experience involving GIS or spatial data.
• Interest in pursuing a career in GIS, engineering, environmental services, or consulting.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Knowledge of theories and methodologies relevant to the discipline.
• Clear written communication and presentation skills; strong speech clarity.
• Judgment and decisionmaking, with attention to detail and followthrough.
• Positive interpersonal collaboration and professionalism in team settings.

What We Offer

• Paid overtime and a housing allowance provided for interns who do not reside near any of our office locations.
• Hands-on experience working with GIS on real-world engineering and consulting projects.
• Exposure to experienced GIS professionals, engineers, project managers, and field teams.
• Opportunities to develop technical skills in GIS mapping, spatial analysis, data management, and field data collection.
• Experience working in a professional consulting environment and collaborating across disciplines.
• Mentorship and opportunities to learn industry standards and best practices.
• Potential opportunities to continue your career with SSR after graduation.

SSR is an Equal Opportunity / Affiliated Employer

EEO Disabled/Veterans

This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. Please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.