Job Title:                     Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist

Division:                      Plant Industries 

Headquarters:             Guthrie Agricultural Center, Charleston, WV

FLSA Status:               Exempt

Salary Range:              $40,000 to $45,000

                                         OPEN UNTIL FILLED
 

Nature of Work:  Under general supervision, performs complex technical work assisting in the development and operation of a multi-tier state geographic information system.  Primary responsibilities include design and maintenance of spatial databases, operation of GIS hardware and agency adopted software within the context of professional standards, agency programs and policies.

Examples of Work:

• Writes and tests GIS application programs using appropriate agency protocols.
• Writes documentation of GIS applications using accepted documentation procedures.
• Operates GIS software and hardware to produce the required data and/or analysis using required knowledge and abilities.
• Completes all department GIS activities including US Forest Service Slow the Spread mapping; participates in national planning meetings.
• Produces or reviews preliminary designs for new database elements; recommends approaches for automating GIS spatial database analysis procedures.
• Works with and creates interface forms with Android based tablets for field collections of data.
• Organizes all department GIS functions.
• Works closely with department personnel to ensure all program needs are met.
• Assists with Homeland Security emergency planning and response activities in all areas of mapping.
• Assists in evaluating requirements for GIS database enhancement and system upgrades.
• Assists in designing and enhancement of GIS database content standards.
• Assists in digitizing and/or scanning coverages into the GIS.
• Assists in incorporating GPS data into GIS.
• Assists the West Virginia Poultry Disease Task Force in developing a data base of poultry facilities.
• Updates databases and maps to ensure readiness in the event of poultry emergencies.
• Trains other department employees on issues related to area of expertise.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

Standing, sitting, driving, operating a computer, and resolving computer related problems.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of GIS software and hardware components, data communication and network methods.
• Knowledge of automated mapping and spatial information processing systems, methods and techniques.
• Knowledge of GIS database designs.
• Knowledge of cartographic design and drafting techniques.
• Ability to write GIS application programs.
• Ability to evaluate GIS database design requirements.
• Ability to apply GIS hardware and software to agency automated mapping and spatial information processing needs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to develop and deliver training related to area of expertise.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in geography, cartography, natural science, planning, computer science, engineering, or engineering technology.
• One year experience with ArcView and/or Arc/Info preferred. 
• Substitution:  Five (5) years’ progressively complex experience in the writing and use of GIS application programs in a GIS operations environment may be considered.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s License is required.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
• Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture, and the State of West Virginia.

This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner and designees.