Geographic Information Systems Analyst

Do you have a passion for conserving land and natural resources?

Come bring your GIS experience to Ag + Open Space as a Geographic Information Systems Analyst!

Starting salary up to $55.77/hour ($116,398/year) and a competitive total compensation package!

The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District (Ag + Open Space) Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst) performs skilled analyses using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data; maintains the Ag + Open Space GIS databases; and prepares visual aids, graphics, and maps in a variety of formats in support of Ag + Open Space land conservation efforts.  Incumbents are responsible for performing the full scope of duties related to creating and maintaining GIS databases, data models, infrastructures, and platforms for assisting with the evaluation and processing required to meet Ag + Open Space program and project goals and objectives. You will work closely with staff, partners, and contractors to complete projects. Supervised by an Ag + Open Space Manager and work closely with both the Conservation GIS Coordinator and Senior Conservation Planner.

Ag + Open Space is seeking an ideal candidate who has:

• A passion for conserving land and natural resources for the benefit of future generations
• Significant experience working with GIS, ArcGis, and related computer systems and software
• Experience in GIS and related technology and systems applied to conservation planning, open space, parks, natural resources, land use, and/or similar fields
• Considerable knowledge of methods and techniques used in landscape-scale spatial analysis, ecological modeling, and remote sensing, and an understanding of emerging technologies, that support land conservation work
• Knowledge of principles and techniques of cartography and quality map production and using ArcGis and other software
• Working knowledge of web mapping and web application development using ArcGis Online
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to exercise initiative, good judgement, and tact
• The ability to build and maintain effective relationships with staff, local agencies, community groups, and the public
• A strong orientation towards internal and external customer service
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Please visit our website to learn more about Sonoma County Ag + Open Space. This position is in the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, which is a separate entity from the County of Sonoma, and not within the County of Sonoma Civil Service System.

This employment list may also be used to fill future full-time, part-time, or extra-help (temporary) positions as they occur during the active status of the list. The employment agreement for this position is the Service Employees International Union Local 1021 Memorandum Of Understanding (SEIU MOU) and additional information regarding employee health and wellness benefits can be found in the Employee Benefits directory.

Minimum Qualifications

Education & Experience: Any combination of education and work experience which would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed herein. Normally, this would include a Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, with major coursework in Geographic Information Science, urban or regional planning, environmental planning, landscape architecture, natural resources management, or a related field, and two years of progressively responsible experience in GIS systems as applied to conservation planning, open space, parks, natural resources, land use, or similar fields, as well as experience in research, mapping, graphic production, and/or report writing.

License: Possession of a valid driver’s license at the appropriate level, as required by the State of California, may be required depending upon assignment to perform the essential job functions of the position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Considerable knowledge of: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), related computer systems, ArcGIS, and related software; principles and techniques of cartography and quality map production using ArcGIS and other software; methods and techniques used in landscape-scale spatial analysis, ecological modeling, and remote sensing; modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work; English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation; techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with vendors and District staff.

Working knowledge of: data management theory, principles, and practices and their application to a wide variety of services and programs; technology, hardware and software, and current applications and practices related to GIS data platforms; theories and techniques of GIS applications and web mapping technology; methods and techniques used in writing Python geo-processing scripts and SQL scripts; principles and practices of urban, regional, environmental, and open space planning and resource management.

Knowledge of: project management principles and practices; land conservation, land use planning, and/or resource management.

Ability to: support a GIS program that includes effective database development, management, accessibility, and systems integration; conduct complex spatial analyses and tabular and spatial queries; design and create professional-level cartographic products; prepare and present clear, concise, and logical written and oral reports, correspondence, policies, procedures, and other written materials; perform analytical work carefully and accurately; use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing; organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within District policy, procedural, and legal guidelines; establish, maintain, and foster effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Selection Procedure & Some Helpful Tips When Applying

The selection procedure will consist of an application with supplemental questionnaire evaluation and interviews. Applicants should list all employers and positions held within the last ten years in the work history section of the application and be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions. You may include history beyond ten years if related to the position. Each application and supplemental questionnaire will be thoroughly evaluated for satisfaction of minimum qualifications and relevance of educational coursework, training, experience, and knowledge and abilities that relate to the position. Candidates possessing the most appropriate job-related qualifications will be invited to an interview.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A background investigation may be required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to applicants.

Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.

Ag + Open Space values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. Ag + Open Space is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.