GIS Specialist 1/2

Description


REGULAR FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The final filing date is Monday, June 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM or after receiving 100 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first.

Are you ready to take your GIS skills to a new level? Ready to be a part of a service-oriented GIS team in a fast-paced environment, collaborating on project priorities and operational needs? We're on the lookout for a dynamic, knowledgeable, and skilled GIS professional ready to advance their GIS knowledge. In this position, you will help ensure GIS needs are met across City departments while meeting the needs of the public. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate with staff, ensure timely project workflows, and help facilitate the development of GIS services citywide.

Under direction, performs technical and analytical work in the design, creation, maintenance and utilization of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including meeting with City staff to discuss GIS needs, analyzing and maintaining associated data models, maps, and tabular information, in accordance with the City's established guidelines, and technology standards; implements graphical systems, automated update mechanisms, and system interfaces; revises, improves, updates, and maintains existing map and data layers; participates in or manages mapping processes, upgrades, and implementation projects; provides GIS training and technical support to City staff and end-users; executes established processes and priorities; acts as project lead for small to medium sized projects; closely coordinates and works with map-layer owners, end-users, and project teams; executes the GIS components of Information Technology Strategic Plan; and performs related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
GIS Specialist 1 is the entry-level classification for the GIS Specialist job series. Initially, incumbents perform assigned duties under general supervision, while learning related standards, policies, and procedures. GIS Specialist 1 is distinguished from GIS Specialist 2 by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the GIS Specialist 2. As experience is gained, there is a greater independence of action within established guidelines.

GIS Specialist 2 is the next level classification in the series. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of duties associated with design, creation, maintenance, and utilization of Geographic Information Systems. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the GIS Specialist 1 level once the incumbent meets the qualification standards of the classification, demonstrates an ability to perform the full scope of work, and meets performance expectations. Incumbents are not automatically promoted to the higher level; the needs of the department determine the level of assignment.

Essential Job Functions

(May include, but are not limited to, the following):
GIS Specialist 1:

• Provides GIS support to City departments and programs including the planning, development, and maintenance of maps (including base maps), charts, displays, presentations, graphics, brochures, drawings, data layers, data models.
• Translates technical information into non-technical information for end users, including assisting them in accessing and interpreting GIS information and using GPS devices and plotters to conduct analysis and reporting.
• Compiles and enters data into GIS databases, including scanning, data conversion, scripting, and digitizing maps and drafting of land management and cartographic data.
• Works with vendors for aerial photography and other layers to ensure GIS map and data layers are updated on time.
• Performs research activities to identify, acquire, and integrate data from other agencies and organizations into the City’s Enterprise GIS database; maintains and updates the City’s information catalogue; digitizes and drafts land management and cartographic data.
• Installs, upgrades, and supports geographic and graphical systems including, database, scripting activities and geographic analysis and reporting solutions to achieve optimum performance in accordance with the IT Service Level Agreement (SLA) and IT Strategic Plan (ITSP).
• Completes GIS related service requests or project tasks in a timely manner and provides support to end users; guides and assists others in completing service requests or project tasks.
• Documents, develops, codes, troubleshoots, upgrades, tests, debugs, and maintains GIS solutions, databases, ETL (extract, transformation, and load) processes, reporting systems, and interfaces.
• Develops technical system documentation, training materials, and provides training to users and support staff.

GIS Specialist 2: Above plus the following:

• Plans, designs, and recommends GIS based systems, interfaces, queries, database structures, scripts, and geographically aware reporting solutions to achieve optimum performance in accordance with the IT Service Level Agreement (SLA).
• Designs GIS solutions, interfaces, extract, transform, load (ETL) processes based on business requirements.
• Analyzes, validates, and documents geographic and/or mapping processes and system requirements and methodologies for the development and procurement of GIS systems.
• Conducts design sessions and develops design documents.
• Train users in the use of GIS and related software, workstations, printers and plotters, digitizing tablets and tables, and GIS networking systems; develops technical documentation and training materials.
• Evaluates and monitors acquisition cost of geo-applications, scripting, and reporting tools to obtain the optimal results, meet budget guidelines, and ensure system compatibility.
• Coordinates activities performed by IT, departmental, and vendor resources for operations and projects in accordance with project plans.
• Prepares presentation materials for meetings; documents and follows up on actions and decisions from meetings.
• Provides input, recommendations on new solutions and solicits technical specifications.
• Sets timelines and expectations for team tasks within project plans.
• Provides guidance to team members and acts as a liaison between the various departments.
• Provides subject-matter expertise on complex GIS issues.
• Leads and meets user requirements through understanding relationships between the system and business operations.
• Coordinates vendor support, City IT staff and functional users to enable business operations.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, bending, kneeling, crawling, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires repetitive hand movement and fine motor coordination in performing computer installation and repair and preparing reports using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires both near and far vision when repairing and installing computers and/or when reading written reports and work-related documents. Additionally, color vision is required to accurately interpret visual displays and voice and data wiring color code standards. The nature of the work and assignment requires the ability to climb ladders and work in small spaces. Acute hearing is required when communicating by telephone and in person. The need to lift, drag and push equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds is also required. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodation.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:
GIS Specialist 1:
The minimum qualifications for education and experience can be met in the one of the following ways:

• A GIS-Related Certificate from an accredited college, university, or trade school in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geospatial, Geographic Information Systems, GIS Technician, GeoTech Skills, Enterprise GIS, GIS & Technology, or closely related field AND one year of experience in GIS software, GIS data, and related projects or tasks; OR

• An Associate’s degree or completion of 60 semester or 90 quarter units at an accredited college or university in Geographic Information Systems, Engineering, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Mathematics, Physical Science, Geography, Cartography, Urban Planning, Associate of Science Degree with GIS Technician Certificate, or closely related field; OR

• A Bachelor’s Degree or completion of 120 semester or 180 quarter units from an accredited college or university with concentration in Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Analysis with GIS, Engineering, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Mathematics, Physical Science, Geography, Cartography, Urban Planning, or closely related field; OR

• At least one of the following certifications: A GIS Technologist or GIS Scientist certificate from ASPRS Imaging & Geospatial Information Technology, A GISP certification from GIS Certification Institute, or an ESRI Technical certification; AND ONE year of experience in GIS software, GIS data, and related projects or tasks.

GIS Specialist 2:
The minimum qualifications for education and experience can be met in one of the following ways:

• A GIS-Related Certificate from an accredited college, university, or trade school in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geospatial, Geographic Information Systems, GIS Technician, GeoTech Skills, Enterprise GIS, GIS & Technology, or closely related field AND TWO years of experience in GIS software, GIS data, and related projects or tasks; OR

• An Associate’s degree or completion of 60 semester or 90 quarter units at an accredited college or university in Geographic Information Systems, Engineering, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Mathematics, Physical Science, Geography, Cartography, Urban Planning, Associate of Science Degree with GIS Technician Certificate, or closely related field AND ONE year of experience in GIS software, GIS data, and related projects or tasks; OR

• A Bachelor’s Degree or completion of 120 semester or 180 quarter units from an accredited college or university with concentration in Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Analysis with GIS, Engineering, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Mathematics, Physical Science, Geography, Cartography, Urban Planning, or closely related field AND ONE year of experience in GIS software, GIS data, and related projects or tasks; OR

• At least one of the following certifications: A GIS Technologist or GIS Scientist certificate from ASPRS Imaging & Geospatial Information Technology, A GISP certification from GIS Certification Institute, or an ESRI Technical certification; AND TWO years of experience in GIS software, GIS data, and related projects or tasks

NOTE: A Master’s of Science degree in GIS, Engineering, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Geography, Computer Information Systems, or related field may be substituted for one year of experience.

GIS Specialist 1:
Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of excellent customer service.
• Fundamentals of GIS systems, spatial data, formats, database programs, reporting, services, and administration.
• GIS database and data modeling best practices, policies, and procedures.
• User requirements gathering and mapping/spatial needs.
• GIS data analysis and visualization.
• Fundamentals of GIS programming, analysis, and cartography.
• Fundamentals of statistics for geography and planning.
• Fundamentals of GPS device use for GIS data gathering and analysis.
• Reporting methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Fundamentals of Local Government Information Model (LGIM) framework as currently defined.
• Industry best practices in GIS systems, ESRI and ESRI Cloud-based solutions.
• Database design and basic administration of database platforms like SQL Server and Oracle
• Object-oriented scripting languages, associated best practices for GIS solutions and analysis.
• Basic cybersecurity principles.
• Knowledge of applicable security and data privacy practices and laws.
• Principles, practices, methods, and techniques of training and providing technical and functional support to end-users.
• Principles of project management, execution, task completion and resource management.
• Applicable industry and safety codes and technology standards.
• Modern office methods, procedures, software, and equipment.
• Methods and techniques of troubleshooting systems, connections, and infrastructure issues.

Ability to:

• Provide excellent customer service.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; translate between technical and non-technical terms.
• Effectively organize, prioritize, and complete work assignments in an expedient and customer service orientation.
• Plan, design, document, install, configure, and support GIS solutions, scripting, geo-analytical reports for bother enterprise and departmental needs.
• Operate desktop GIS software; modern office equipment to include large format plotters; operate CAD software.
• Prepare a variety of plans, specifications, maps, visual materials, graphic materials, and complex technical reports; use business intelligence tools to convert data into information.
• Conduct routine research projects, evaluate alternatives, and make sound recommendations; perform cost/benefit analysis for GIS solutions.
• Execute printer and plotter commands needed to control printer queues and provide large-scale maps and other visual documents.
• Run import and export procedures to load data into databases for processing and product generation/delivery.
• Gather, document, and implement requirements for new solutions and system changes of varying scope and complexity.
• Prepare clear and concise written reports and technical documentation.
• Respond promptly and effectively to requests for service, including cybersecurity incidents.
• Establish, maintain, and promote positive and effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, public officials, and the public.
• Demonstrate initiative and exercise good judgment in the performance of duties.
• Work independently and as a team member; recognize and set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.
• Respond to cybersecurity issues and remediate in a timely manner as instructed.
• Recognize, set, and follow priorities to meet deadlines.

GIS Specialist 2:
Knowledge of: Above, plus the following:

• Organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis, evaluation, development, and implementation of GIS systems to include database programs, policies, and procedures.
• Advanced level GIS desktop and web/cloud software.
• Intermediate practitioner in ESRI cloud-based solutions and support.
• Intermediate level in Geo-Database design.
• Knowledgeable in database administration for SQL Server and Oracle.
• Best practices in providing information through visual reports and storyboards.

Ability to: Above, plus the following:

• Define and implement solutions for documented system function requirements, including system upgrades and participation in RFP/RFQ/IFB procurement processes.
• Implement new GIS solutions and GIS system changes of intermediate complexity.
• Generate user instructions effectively in both written and oral form.
• Analyze cybersecurity issues and remediate in a timely manner.
• Act as a task coordinator or lead of small to medium-sized projects.
• Assist in evaluating new geo-technologies; provide feedback to management on ways to increase efficiencies.
• Prepare written reports, instructions, memos, alerts, knowledgebase, or newsletter articles
• Follow oral instructions, work with minimal supervision to accomplish goals and complete assigned project tasks on time.
• Plan effectively, prioritize requests and assignments and meet deadlines.
• Use independent judgment to identify and resolve problems.
• Coordinate the use of GPS devices with users to collect and analyze data.

Willingness to:

• Provide emergency response to reduce downtime, correct errors or monitor vendor activity surrounding critical system failures, off-hours scheduled maintenance downtime or work on call on a scheduled and as needed basis.
• Provide services in different geographical locations throughout the City as requested by users or needed.

Licenses/Certificates:
Possession at time of hire and continued maintenance of a valid California driver's license and a safe driving record, or the ability to provide alternate transportation which is approved by the appointing authority.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Public sector employment or internship experience.
• Experience developing or implementing GIS systems as either part of a work assignment for academic or professional requirements.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in GIS
• Experience using ESRI GIS Solutions

Application and Selection Process

The final filing date is Monday, June 8 at 5:00 PM or after receiving 100 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first. If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit a City of Sunnyvale employment application and responses to the supplemental questions to the Department of Human Resources (postmarks or faxes are not accepted). Candidates are asked to fully describe any training, education, experience, or skills relevant to this position. Electronic applications may be submitted on-line through the City's employment page at Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

EXAM PROCESS

Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications of this position. Based upon a review of the application materials, the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of an oral examination scheduled for June 22 or 23, 2026 at Sunnyvale City Hall ( Note: The examination process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Director of Human Resources). The oral examination will be in-person, please plan accordingly.

SELECTION PROCESS

Those candidates that receive a passing score on the examination will be placed on an eligibility list for up to one year, in accordance with the City's Civil Service Rules and Administrative Policies. Top candidates on the eligibility list will be invited to participate in a selection interview with the department scheduled for June 30 or July 1, 2026. Selection interviews will take place in-person, please plan accordingly.

Any candidate selected by the hiring department will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, which may consist of a comprehensive background investigation, as well as medical exam(s) administered by a City-selected physician(s) before hire. Prior to starting work, all newly-hired employees will be fingerprinted to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose conviction history will result in refusal of employment or termination.

INFORMATION ABOUT PROOF OF EDUCATION

Any successful candidate selected by the hiring department will be required to submit proof of education (i.e., original copy of the diploma or college/university transcripts).

Any successful candidate selected by the hiring department will be required to submit proof of education (i.e., copy of the diploma or college/university transcripts). An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credential evaluation service at the candidate’s expense. Candidates may utilize any third-party agency for the evaluation. If you search ‘education equivalency verification’ or similar online, you will obtain results for agencies that provide this evaluation service. A conditional job offer cannot be made until the education has been evaluated and submitted to the Department of Human Resources.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Summary of Sunnyvale's Employees Association SEA

Notice of CFRA (California Family Rights Act) Rights and Obligations

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The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

The City of Sunnyvale is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state, or local laws. The City of Sunnyvale is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 730-7490 or recruitments@sunnyvale.ca.gov.

Summary of Sunnyvale's Employees AssociationSEA

Notice of CFRA (California Family Rights Act) Rights and Obligations

Closing Date/Time: 6/8/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

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• City of Sunnyvale

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