Position Overview

Under general direction from the Manager of Engineering, Energy Resources, the GIS Specialist performs advanced geospatial data management, analysis, application development, and system administration to support the District's electric infrastructure and operations. This role maintains and enhances the electric distribution GIS, develops custom tools and applications, ensures data accuracy and integrity, provides technical support and training, and collaborates across departments to optimize electric system planning, maintenance, reliability, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

GIS System Administration & Data Management

• Create, maintain, and administer electric asset databases and the District's Geographic Information System (GIS) using ESRI Arc GIS Pro, Arc GIS Online, and related platforms. 
• Perform data acquisition, entry, editing, validation, QA/QC processes, and updates from construction as-builts, field surveys, GPS, and other sources to ensure accurate representation of overhead and underground electric distribution systems. 
• Design and manage spatial RDBMS queries, views, stored procedures, automated updates, and real-time analyses/reports. 

• Develop and maintain GIS data models, standards, metadata, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in coordination with IT, database administrators, and Energy Resources staff.

Application Development & Automation

• Design, develop, test, and troubleshoot custom GIS applications for desktop, web, and mobile platforms to support electric operations, field workflows, and decision-making.
• Automate workflows using Python, SQL, R, Arcade, or other scripting tools to improve efficiency in data processing, mapping, and reporting.
• Evaluate, recommend, and implement new GIS tools, scripts, utilities, and integrations (e.g., with asset management, AMI, or other systems).

Mapping, Analysis & Technical Support

• Produce maps, one-line diagrams, circuit maps, specifications, reports, and visualizations for electric system planning, construction, maintenance, reliability improvements, and regulatory compliance. 
• Interpret complex electrical drawings, symbols, as-builts, and plans; perform spatial analyses for capacity, equipment relocations, automation, and outage support. 
• Provide GIS technical expertise, user training, troubleshooting, and support to Energy Resources staff and other District departments. 
• Coordinate with external agencies, contractors, customers, and stakeholders for facility location, permitting, and project data.

Project & Operational Coordination

• Assist in managing GIS-related projects, consultants, and technical staff as assigned.
• Support procurement of GIS equipment, software, and materials; establish standards and evaluate packages.
• Interface with engineering, operations, and other disciplines to integrate GIS into electric facility design, construction, and maintenance processes.
• Perform field verification, data collection, and occasional emergency response support as needed.

Additional Duties

• Perform other duties as requested, directed, or assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in GIS, Geomatics, Geography, Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a closely related field with substantial coursework in GIS and programming.

Experience

• Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience developing, implementing, and maintaining GIS systems, databases, and custom applications, preferably in a utility or electric infrastructure environment. Experience with ESRI Arc GIS suite, Auto CAD, SQL/Python programming, and electric distribution systems is highly desirable.

Skills and Abilities

• Apply advanced GIS concepts, spatial analysis, and data modeling to solve complex utility problems. 
• Read, interpret, and create detailed electrical one-line/three-line diagrams, distribution details, and equipment specifications. 
• Develop and support custom applications, automate processes, and integrate systems effectively. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing; deliver training and make technical presentations. 
• Work independently, prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and adapt to interruptions or changing priorities. 
• Collaborate effectively with staff, management, contractors, agencies, and the public. 
• Exercise independent judgment, maintain confidentiality, and ensure data accuracy/integrity.

Knowledge

• Current ESRI Arc GIS Pro, Arc GIS Online, Arc GIS Enterprise, and Auto CAD software. 
• Database design, SQL querying, Python/R programming, and GIS application development. 
• Principles of electric utility operations, overhead/underground distribution systems, and electrical symbols/drawings. 
• Modern GIS trends, including cloud-based solutions, automation, real-time data integration, and asset management. 
• QA/QC processes, data standards, and regulatory compliance in utility mapping.

Special Requirements

• High proficiency in ESRI Arc GIS suite and related tools. 
• Complete required Ethics and Sexual Harassment prevention training per state law. 
• Abide by all District policies, guidelines, and rules.

Work Environment

• This is a fully on-site position based at the District’s secondary office location. Remote work or hybrid arrangements are not permitted; regular attendance at the designated worksite is an essential function of the role. The position is primarily office-based, with occasional fieldwork, travel for meetings/conferences/site visits, or exposure to outdoor conditions (50% or less of work time). Irregular or extended hours, including overtime and on-call emergency response duties, may be required.

Physical Demands:

• Sitting and operating computers/office equipment for up to 8 hours per day. 
• Lifting up to 25 pounds, occasional stooping, and navigating stairways/uneven terrain. 
• Communicating effectively in person, by phone, and in writing. 
• Hearing and vision sufficient for reading, operating equipment, and receiving communications.

Environmental Factors:

• Primarily office-based with occasional outdoor work (50% or less exposure to sun).
• May require irregular or extended hours, including overtime.

Mental Demands:

• Exercise independent judgment and objective reasoning. 
• Organize, prioritize, and plan work activities on daily/weekly bases. 
• Interpret complex regulations and document work accurately and concisely. 
• Manage multiple duties that may be interrupted or changed by immediate circumstances.

Supervision

• Receives general supervision from the Manager of Engineering, Energy Resources.

Applications/Resumes will only be accepted via the Merced Irrigation District's online application system.

New users must set up an account at https://Merced.accessgovernment.net/Applicant Tracking

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