Senior Geographic Information Systems Support Technician

Full Job Description

Under general supervision, is responsible for geographic information systems (GIS) project setup, departmental or divisional administration, user education and technical support activities.

Requirements

• Sets up computer aided design and drafting (CADD) workstations to utilize GIS digital mapping and infrastructure files for assigned projects.

• Creates project structure map format, database structure, network linkage and user programs.

• Installs operations and applications software on workstations and makes City Intergraph network connections.

• Trains, teaches, coaches and advises GIS and CADD operators and students on workstation operation, digitizer input devices, application software usage, accessing, extracting, transferring and storing information over the network, and backup procedures.

• Serves as a technical resource for department or division GIS/CADD system administrators.

• Prepares GIS digital files for use.

• Draws digital maps, creates database files, links database file records to map objects or regions and prepares maps with database file information included.

• Assigns and uses CADD levels for project mapping data attachment to city base maps and does requisite consultation and coordination with other city departments.

• Develops cell libraries and standards for the integration and presentation of project documentation data in digital mapping and graphic depiction.

• Assists with interface between departmental software and GIS network software.

• Assists with file transfers between departments and GIS network.

• Assists with troubleshooting and resolution of wide area network (WAN) and local area network (LAN) operational, transfer and communication problems.

• Sets up and loads databases.

• Assists with running applications to plot data for GIS systems users.

• Assists with user support for systems operations and applications such as Microstation Modular GIS Environment, database interfaces and backup utilities.

• Performs system startup and setup training for new users.

• Makes presentations on GIS system capabilities and their application to departmental missions.

• Keeps abreast of developments in the GIS field.

• Develops relationships with GIS systems and software vendors, technical representatives, consultants and instructors.

• Instructs small user groups on GIS operations and applications as required.

• Coordinates activities, meetings, communications and otherwise support to City GIS user group.

• Assists with support of city based cartographic maps.

• Serves as Planning and Development personal computer LAN and GIS systems administrator.

• Services public requests for copies of geographic and other mapped information.

• Creates graphic renderings of urban planning design solutions using CADD equipment, digital city base maps and GIS network in accordance with urban planning design standards.

• Responds to requests from City departments and other agencies and plots maps from existing GIS files for their use.

• Prepares thematic maps for project and other presentation purposes.

• Confers with and coordinates project instructions, documentation and information with designated personnel, departmental divisions and other agencies.

Qualifications

Qualifications (required):

High School graduation or GED with successful completion of mathematics, algebra, geometry, drafting and CADD coursework.

Successful completion of a sequence of continuing education classes, seminars and instruction in digital cartographic and GIS technology.

Specific training in Intergraph system management, MicroStation, MGE and MGA software.

Five years of experience in paraprofessional or technical engineering, architectural or urban planning, drafting or graphic design work that includes CADD operations for planning or mapping projects. Two years of the experience must be in application of GIS technology to the work.

Qualifications (preferred):

GIS system management and/or project setup experience preferred.

Utilized Python to automate GIS data processing, map production, database integration, and network file management for planning and infrastructure projects.

Additional Information

Evaluation Plan

• Interview: 70%
• Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
• Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%

Additional points may be awarded for:

• Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
• Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points

LRD: 01/29/2026