GIS Technician

City of Elkhart, Indiana; Elkhart (IN); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Elkhart in Indiana is seeking a GIS Technician to assist in maintaining the city’s geographic information system and asset records. You will collect, update, and analyze GIS data, perform field data collection, and support city departments with accurate GIS information.

The role requires 2 years of ESRI GIS experience and at least an associate degree in GIS or related fields. This is a full-time, hybrid position with opportunities to engage in maps, reports, and public inquiries.

Qualifications

• Two years of technical ESRI GIS experience or equivalent.
• Associate or Bachelor degree in GIS or related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Ability to read legal descriptions and translate them into GIS data.

Responsibilities

• Collects and updates infrastructure data using ESRI GIS products and MS Office.
• Conducts field data collection with GPS units to update GIS datasets.
• Interprets records (easements, deeds) and converts them into GIS data.
• Reads and draws legal descriptions using GIS software.
• Prepares maps and reports for city assets with ESRI GIS tools.
• Supports public inquiries and assists at meetings and in the field.
• Trains staff on GIS software and data collection methods.

Skills

GIS data management

Analytical thinking

Public communication

Time management

Education

Associate degree in GIS

Bachelor degree in GIS

Tools

ESRI GIS

MS Office

GPS devices

Job description

City Of Elkhart – Job Description

DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC WORKS

POSITION: GIS TECHNICIAN

DIVISION: ENGINEERING

STATUS: FULL-TIME

CATEGORY: SALARY UP TO 60,600

FLSA: NON-EXEMPT

REPORTS TO: GIS & RECORDS MANAGER

DATE: 2026

Job Summary

The GIS Technician is responsible for assisting in the maintenance and management of the City of Elkhart's Geographic Information System (GIS) and infrastructure records. This position supports the GIS Manager by collecting, updating, and analyzing GIS data, conducting field investigations, and ensuring accurate asset management for city departments.

Principal Duties And Responsibilities

• Collects and updates infrastructure data through ESRI GIS products, Microsoft Office, GPS devices, and other software.
• Conducts field data collection using GPS units and other tools to update GIS datasets.
• Researches and interprets record drawings and legal documents (easements, annexations, deeds, etc.) and converts them into GIS data.
• Reads, interprets, and draws legal descriptions using GIS software.
• Scans, archives, and links historic maps and documents to GIS datasets.
• Prepares maps and reports related to city assets using ESRI GIS products and Microsoft Office.
• Assists the public by answering questions and addressing complaints in person and over the phone.
• Attends City meetings as needed and transfers maps for scanning.
• Provides support and training for City staff in using GIS-related software and field data collection tools.
• Assists in updating the City website and social media with GIS-related content.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Other Duties And Responsibilities

• May be required to work extended hours or evenings as needed.
• Periodic travel for training and conferences, including overnight stays.

Education And Experience

• Associate or Bachelor degree in GIS, geography, database design, or a related field, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two years' technical experience with ESRI GIS or similar products.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Proficiency in ESRI GIS products, asset management software, and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to read and interpret record drawings and legal descriptions and translate them into GIS data.
• Familiarity with database design principles and GPS technology.
• Strong mathematical skills, including algebra and geometry.
• Working knowledge of office procedures, grammar, spelling, and report writing.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers, scanners, copiers, and GPS units.
• Experience using hand and power tools, such as metal detectors, probes, and measuring wheels.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, work efficiently under deadlines, and adapt to changing work conditions.

Physical, Mental, And Visual Skills

• Frequent use of computer and office equipment.
• Lifting and carrying objects over 30 pounds.
• Bending, kneeling, reaching, and working on uneven terrain.
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking.
• Exposure to outdoor elements, including extreme weather conditions.
• Ability to work in noisy environments and around construction equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Hybrid work environment, including office and fieldwork.
• Exposure to traffic, construction zones, and potential hazards.
• May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Requires working in all types of weather conditions.

Post Offer Testing Requirements

• The City of Elkhart is a Drug Free Workplace. Therefore, successfully passing a post offer drug screen is required (random drug testing may be conducted after employment).
• Background checks producing acceptable BMV and criminal history reports required.

POLICY STATEMENT

• The person assigned to this position is required to possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the physical, mental, and visual skills described in this job description to perform the principal duties, responsibilities and essential job functions.
• This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this position. Principal duties and responsibilities are intended to describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job, and "other" duties and responsibilities include those that are considered incidental or secondary to the overall purpose of this job.
• This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employee holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by the Manager, Director of Public Works, or Mayor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.