Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Administrator

FERGUSON TOWNSHIP • State College, PA

23h • Onsite

About The Position

Ferguson Township is seeking a full-time GIS Administrator to join their professional team dedicated to public service in State College, PA. This onsite role offers the opportunity to directly impact the community by managing and advancing geographic information systems (GIS) to support Planning & Zoning and Public Works operations. The position offers competitive compensation and a supportive work environment, allowing for growth in technical and leadership skills while contributing to innovative, community-focused projects. Ferguson Township, located in Centre County, Pennsylvania, is home to approximately 19,000 residents and is known for its blend of rural charm and urban convenience, strong community, safe neighborhoods, and commitment to preserving natural beauty through farmland conservation. Residents have access to top-rated public schools, numerous parks, recreational amenities, and a bike-friendly environment. The Township is in proximity to downtown State College and Penn State University, offering cultural experiences, dining, and entertainment. As the GIS Administrator, the individual will serve as the Township's subject matter expert in geospatial data and technologies, coordinating GIS projects, managing databases, developing web maps, dashboards, and applications, and supporting staff and residents with innovative GIS solutions. This work aims to enable efficient operations across multiple departments and enhance community decision-making. The role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with technical expertise, creativity, and a passion for problem-solving in a government setting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in GIS, Geography, Computer Science, Urban Planning, or related field.
• 1–3 years of ArcGIS experience (coursework and internships considered).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online.
• Current GISP or ability to obtain GISP within two (2) years.

Responsibilities

• Manage GIS software, licensing, hardware, and GPS devices.
• Coordinate GIS requests and develop enhanced workflows for departments.
• Maintain and manage geospatial databases using ESRI ArcGIS and ArcGIS Online.
• Serve as the Township's GIS expert, providing strategic guidance and technical expertise to staff and leadership.
• Develop web maps, dashboards, apps, and other tools to provide access to data for multiple stakeholders.
• Deploy solutions such as Survey123 and ArcGIS Online tools to improve data collection and accessibility.
• Communicate complex geospatial data effectively through cartographic and digital solutions.
• Digitize non-georeferenced documents and integrate data from multiple sources.
• Perform basic programming and coding using Python and similar tools.
• Assist with GIS data governance, documentation, and maintain awareness of GIS industry trends.
• Participate in regional, county, and state GIS groups to represent Ferguson Township.

Benefits

• Paid sick, vacation, and personal days
• Health, vision, and dental insurance coverage with low premium shares and low deductibles
• Paid life insurance coverage & short-term disability insurance coverage
• Voluntary 457 and Roth IRA plans are also available, as well as supplemental life insurance, long-term disability insurance, and flexible spending account (FSA) options
• Wellness Program that includes morale-boosting events, healthy activity challenges, and much more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level