Salary : $67,663.47 - $86,357.65 Annually Location : Arcata, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 252600004 Department: Environmental Services Opening Date: 08/22/2025 Closing Date: 9/14/2025 11:59 PM Pacific Description Are you an analytical problem-solver with a passion for GIS and public service? Apply today to be the GIS Coordinator for the City of Arcata! Please note: Interviews are tentatively scheduled for Thursday, September 25th. GREAT BENEFITS including, the City currently pays the majority of the medical coverage premium for employees (and their dependents) and 100% of the premium for dental and vision coverage. The City also offers a $400/month health insurance opt-out option, if applicable. Additionally, vacation accrual increases with service; immediate City contribution to deferred comp, increasing with service; longevity pay, etc. See more in the Benefits tab. DESCRIPTION Under direction of higher level staff, the GIS Coordinator performs, coordinates and supervises the day-to-day functions related to developing and maintaining the City's Geographic Information System (GIS), databases, and related applications; supports citywide database administration, including integrating local and regional data sets, development of GIS internal and public mapping programs, and providing GIS services and support to staff and system users; performs other related duties as assigned. Examples of Duties Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Develops, coordinates, and maintains the City's Geographical Information System (GIS), databases, and related applications.
- Schedules, trains, supervises, and reviews the work of assigned staff in GIS activities, including providing feedback, evaluating employee performance, counseling employees and recommending initial disciplinary action; assists in recruitment selection and promotion.
- Consults with City departments to identify GIS needs and requirements; designs, develops, or supervises the resulting GIS databases and applications, including performing needs assessments, coordinating the acquisition and preparation of data for GIS purposes (to include logical and physical data modeling), testing, and examining data integrity.
- Serves as a technical resource to all City departments, including establishing GIS system protocols, providing assistance and training on the proper use of GIS data and systems; coordinates the purchase of GIS software; maintains software licenses; troubleshoots and provides support for GIS software, databases, and other related applications; meets with City users to ensure common understanding of GIS needs and ensure consistent delivery of GIS services; keeps current with changing technologies concerning applications and operations.
- Researches, creates, quality checks, and maintains GIS data layers; uses data sources such as local or regional agency data/GIS spatial web servers, CAD drawings, GPS data, and orthophotos to create and maintain layers; creates and maintains metadata; designs cartographic and other visual graphic output; conducts spatial overlay analysis, including image analysis and 2D visualization.
- Designs and implements programs and code using specified programming languages and applications such as Avenue, Python, SQL, Visual Basic (VB), ArcIMS, ArcGis Server, and ArcView, to automate GIS processes.
- Develops, oversees and supervises maintenance of the City's internet web mapping applications and maintains the City's public GIS data download site.
- Performs and supervises a variety of technical analysis, including field surveys, and project analysis and design through Global Positioning System (GPS); processes and integrates the information into the GIS program.
- Performs all other related duties as assigned.
Please see full job description Typical Qualifications and Requirements Experience and Training: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills,and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
- Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in GIS, geography, computer science, or a related field; and at least three (3) years progressively responsible experience using ArcGIS or related GIS applications, preferably in a public sector environment; at least one (1) year of programming experience, and some supervisory experience.
- Experience in a related relevant field can be substituted for the educational qualification on a year-to-year basis.
Knowledge of: Principles, practices and techniques of Geographic Information System programs, including application design, system analysis, database management, and related hardware and software; principles and practices of employee supervision, including work planning, assignment, review and evaluation, discipline, and the training of staff; principles and practices of spatial analysis, map projections, coordinate systems and conversions, automated mapping systems, cartography, 3-D landscape visualization and analysis, image rectification and aerial photograph interpretation; global positioning systems (GPS), operation, setup, configuration and maintenance of GIS workstations, software and relational and attribute databases including, ESRI applications such as ArcGIS, ArcEditor, 3D and Spatial Analyst, ArcGis Explorer, ArcView, ArcGis Server, ArcIMS, and related technical concepts and terminology; presentation mapping and plotting, research, documentation, maintenance, entry, and verification of computer hardware and software for GIS applications; peripheral hardware and software related to digital mapping and GIS, including CAD/CAM software, scanners, digitizers, printers, and plotters; a working knowledge of computer graphic programs including Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; geographic data collection and verification methods and procedures; applicable mathematical functions and analysis; principles, practices and techniques of record keeping, report preparation and technical writing; software languages including, Python, Avenue and Visual Basic; techniques for dealing effectively with those contacted in the course of work, in person, on the telephone, and electronically. Ability to: Work within a networked client/server computerized environment; collect, organize, develop, analyze and present geographic data; oversee, direct, and coordinate the work of assigned staff, including training, counseling and evaluating; interpret maps, subdivision plans, natural resource data, aerial photography and engineering drawings; interpret and digitize legal descriptions using coordinate geometry; program GIS applications to meet user needs; troubleshoot and perform routine maintenance on GIS workstations and peripheral equipment; test and implement GIS applications; plan and coordinate projects identifying priorities and deadlines for completion; perform research documentation, maintenance and verification of spatial and attribute data; import, export, translate, convert and transfer mapping and attribute data using the Internet and the network; analyze user needs; identify goals and objectives; examine alternatives and develop procedures; exercise critical thinking and problem solving skills; support system users ranging from novice to advanced level; develop, coordinate, and conduct staff training and community presentations; prepare and maintain accurate and complete technical records and documentation; work independently and as a member of a work team; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others contacted in the course of work. Additional Information Other Requirements:
- Possess a valid California Driver License
- A commitment to understand and support inclusion in the workplace.
- Willing and able to work a flexible and varied work schedule that is often determined by the needs of the systems, projects, and construction schedules. This may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Physical Requirements:
- Work is generally performed in both a general office and field environment. Must be able to perform the physical aspects of the job, including sitting for periods of time; prolonged viewing of a computer screen and use of keyboard and mouse; operating standard office equipment, including a computer and GIS equipment; traversing uneven terrain; operating a motor vehicle; working outside in varying weather conditions, hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs, lifting, pulling, dragging, and carrying up to 50 pounds.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER All City of Arcata employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/REASONABLE ACCOMMODATON: The City of Arcata is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability or on any other non-merit factors in its process of recruitment, selection, promotion or other conditions of employment. In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act reasonable efforts will be made during the examination process to accommodate people with special physical or mental requirements. If special accommodations are necessary, please contact the Personnel Department (707-###-####) prior to the testing date. When indicating you have a special need, one of the following definitions will apply to you. A disabled person is anyone who: (1) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities: i.e., walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, working or learning; or (2) has a record of such impairment; or (3) is regarded as having such an impairment.
- In accordance with the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, the City must verify, once an employment offer has been made, that all persons have written proof of their right to work in the United States.
- All potential City employees must complete a required pre-employment physical examination, receive DOJ fingerprint clearance, and have a satisfactory driving record (if required to drive for city business).
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED. The City of Arcata is proud to offer the following benefits: Retirement: CalPERS Program:
- 2% @ 55 for CLASSIC members. Currently, employees pay 8% (7% member rate and 1% of employer rate).**
- 2% @ 62 for NEW members. Currently, employees pay 7.75% member rate (subject to actuary change annually).
**For vacancies filled by a current City of Arcata employee who is already a CalPERS member, the employee will remain at his/her current CalPERS formula. For existing employees who are 2.7% @ 55 members: currently employees pay 9% (8% member rate and 1% of employer rate). Medical: The City currently pays the majority of the premium for employee and family for medical, dental, and vision. The City offers a choice of three different medical plans: Anthem Blue Cross EPO 250 Plan, Anthem Blue Cross EPO 500 Plan, and Anthem Blue Cross High Deductible Health Plan. City contributes approximately eighty percent (80%) of each plans' premiums. Employee/dependent contribution is fully paid by the City for dental (Ameritas); and vision (VSP) coverage. City offers $400/mo. health insurance opt out option. Vacation: Accrues at 8 hours per month upon employment and increases with time in service. Sick Leave: Accrues at 8 hours per month with no limit. 48 hours of Family Illness Leave are also allowed per year and are deducted from employee's accrued Sick Leave. This is not accruable. Family Illness/Bereavement Leave: An employee may be granted up to 48 hours per year family illness/bereavement leave with pay. This is not accruable. Holidays: The City provides 13 fixed holidays per year, in addition to 32 hours floating holidays. Life Insurance: The City pays the premium on a $50,000 term life insurance policy for eligible employees. Longevity Pay: Employee receives an additional 3% of base pay after 5 years of continuous service; an additional 3% after 10 years; and an additional 3% after 15 years. Deferred Compensation: One Deferred Compensation plan available; with City contribution upon employment and increases with time in service. Other Benefits: Other benefits include City-paid membership in an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for the employee and eligible dependents; an education and training reimbursement program; optional participation in supplemental health coverages through AFLAC; optional participation in pre-tax Unreimbursed Medical and Dependent Care Assistance programs; Physical Fitness Reimbursement; Tobacco Cessation and Adoption incentive plans; and free bus service on all routes operated by Humboldt Transit Authority (HTA) for employee and immediate family members. Although benefits have been reported as accurately as possible, there has been no warranty of complete benefit summary intended. All information provided is subject to the actual terms of the legal documents that control benefit programs. 01 The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal. This section must be completed. Applications may be rejected if you write, see resume , see attached or anything similar.
- Yes, I understand and agree
- No, I do not agree
02 Describe your experience managing or maintaining an enterprise GIS system. Include the GIS software and tools you've used (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Enterprise Geodatabases), your role, and the scope of the system (e.g., number of users, departments supported). 03 Summarize your experience using programming or scripting languages in GIS. List the languages/tools you've used (e.g., Python, SQL, ModelBuilder), and briefly describe the types of automation or geoprocessing tasks you performed. 04 Describe a GIS project where you collected, integrated, or maintained spatial data from multiple sources. Explain the types of data you worked with (e.g., GPS, CAD, orthophotos, legacy shapefiles), and the methods used to ensure accuracy and consistency. 05 Provide examples of GIS maps, dashboards, or applications you have developed for internal or public users. Indicate the tools used (e.g., ArcGIS Online, StoryMaps, Field Maps) and the intended users (e.g., City staff, Councilmembers, public, etc.). 06 Briefly describe any experience you have supervising staff, coordinating consultants, or leading GIS-related projects. Include the number of people involved, your responsibilities, and how you ensured project goals were met. Required Question
