About the position
The Geographic Information Specialist I position is a critical role within the Lower Rio Grande Valley, specifically located in Edinburg, TX. This position is responsible for maintaining and managing the ArcInfo/ArcView Geographic Information System, as well as the TRANS/CAD software. The GIS Specialist will engage in various tasks related to the transportation planning process within the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) study area. This includes analyzing and converting GIS data, editing base programs such as EXCEL, DBASE, and INFO, and creating visualization presentations to effectively communicate geographic information. In addition to data analysis, the GIS Specialist will be tasked with geographically displaying traffic counts and compiling collective traffic count data. The role involves performing technical analyses, coding road and transit networks, and preparing data for the Travel Demand Model. The specialist will create and modify maps, graphs, and diagrams using geographic information software and related equipment. This position requires the compilation, evaluation, and interpretation of geographic data from various sources, including censuses, field observations, satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and existing maps. The GIS Specialist will also be responsible for entering required data into the geographic information system, digitizing and maintaining spatial databases, and ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the data. Furthermore, the GIS Specialist will assist in writing programs and developing user interfaces, menus, and macro-level commands to meet user needs. The role may also involve providing consulting services in areas such as resource development and management, environmental hazards, regional cultural history, and urban social planning. The GIS Specialist will assist with entering, correcting, and debugging database records, as well as evaluating data from external sources to determine quality and resolve discrepancies. Other related duties may be assigned as necessary.
Responsibilities
- Maintain the ArcInfo/ArcView Geographic Information System and TRANS/CAD software.
- Analyze and convert GIS data, editing base programs like EXCEL, DBASE, and INFO.
- Create visualization presentations to communicate geographic information.
- Geographically display traffic counts and compile collective traffic count data.
- Perform technical analysis and code road and transit networks for the Travel Demand Model.
- Create and modify maps, graphs, or diagrams using geographic information software.
- Compile, evaluate, and interpret geographic data from various sources.
- Enter required data into a geographic information system and maintain spatial databases.
- Assist in writing programs and developing user interfaces to meet user needs.
- Provide consulting services in resource development, environmental hazards, and urban planning.
- Evaluate data from external sources to determine quality and resolve discrepancies.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in geography, political science, urban planning, or a related field; or three (3) years related experience, including GIS applications.
- Demonstrable skills in ArcInfo/ArcView and TRANS/CAD software are required.
- Ability to communicate in English and Spanish is a plus.
- General knowledge of statistics, cartography, and electronic databases, as well as GIS principles and computer applications.
- Extensive experience with ARC 10 and its extensions, and TRANS/CAD software.
- Knowledge of geographic and cartographic principles, such as projections and geo-referencing.
- Ability to construct and interpret maps and charts of geographic data.
- Motivated to continually self-educate on new GIS technology.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience with additional GIS software and tools.
- Familiarity with urban planning processes and methodologies.
- Knowledge of environmental regulations and policies.
