Spatial Research Assistant (COM2)

State of Washington•Multiple Locations Statewide, WA

12d•Remote

About The Position

The Spatial Research Assistant works in the Climate & Ecosystem Section of the Department of Commerce’s Local Government Division, Growth Management Services Unit. The role supports Growth Management Act research projects led by senior spatial analyst staff, primarily by helping update the Washington State Zoning Atlas (WAZA), which supports policy analysis at state and local levels. The assistant also contributes to other spatial analysis projects related to GMA topics as assigned. The work includes collecting land-use and zoning information from local governments, normalizing spatial data, entering zoning information according to a prescribed methodology, and producing spatial graphics for varied audiences. The position also supports legislative research requests and helps unit staff prepare bill analyses and fiscal notes through spatial and data analysis. The position may be located anywhere in Washington State; occasional travel to a Commerce office or in-state events or meetings may be required. A trip to pick up equipment and receive instruction is required if selected.

Requirements

Four years of combined experience and/or qualifying post-high-school education in relevant fields.
Experience working in urban planning, public policy, or geography in at least two of these areas: ArcGIS focused on urban or land-use planning; data collection and analysis; or analysis and review of public policies or land-use laws using spatial analysis tools.
Qualifying education must be in land-use planning, urban planning, public administration, public policy, or a related field; it may substitute year for year for experience.
Familiarity with Washington State’s Growth Management Act (GMA), 36.70A RCW, and basic principles of land-use planning.
Proficiency with desktop GIS software, preferably ArcGIS Pro, to create and update spatial databases, perform basic spatial analysis, georeference non-spatial data for GIS use, and produce high-quality static maps.
Confidence using office and online meeting software such as Microsoft Office Suite, Teams, Zoom, and Outlook.
Ability to advance GIS skills and knowledge of topics related to Washington’s Growth Management Act through trainings, readings, and other educational materials.
Ability to take action to learn and grow and to meet the needs of others.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Washington State planning and plan implementation procedures.
Knowledge of local planning practices and comprehensive plan regulation adoption processes.
Familiarity with local governance structures and land-use zoning.

Responsibilities

Support research on Growth Management Act topics, including the Washington State Zoning Atlas, housing, and climate policy.
Collect land-use data from local governments under the general direction of the project supervisor and meet project deadlines.
Enter spatial data accurately and consistently using the prescribed methodology.
Produce static maps, web maps, and other spatial materials that meet agency standards and clearly communicate GMA topics.
Coordinate schedules, take notes, and follow up on action items for internal and external project meetings.
Use WAZA and other existing spatial analysis tools to respond to legislative research requests about GMA topics such as land use, housing, and climate.
Support Growth Management Unit staff developing bill analyses or fiscal notes during legislative sessions through iterations of spatial and data analysis, often on short timelines.