GIS SUPERVISORWHATCOM COUNTY JOB DESCRIPTION
POSITION: GIS Supervisor
DEPARTMENT: Administrative Services -Information
Technology
REPORTS TO: Information Technology Manager
SUMMARY
RANGE: 11
FLSA: E
EEO: 1
Responsible for planning, organizing, staffing, coordinating, and directing the daily efforts of
assigned staff, and other work groups and regional partners to accomplish the work, mission,
goals and vision of Whatcom County's enterprise Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
program. Exercises independent judgment and discretion in performing and providing oversight
for highly complex problem solving relating to GIS application support, business system
integration, database administration, and analysis.
Assures GIS application and database policies, procedures and tasks, including security and
backup, are established, documented, and maintained. Addresses user support issues and
analyzes various department and regional partner needs. Represents Whatcom County by
maintaining a professional approach and demeanor in all activities. Ensures compliance with
department/county policies and procedures, collective bargaining agreements and legal
requirements. Assists with the management of programs and staff in a manner that ensures
expenditures remain within approved budget. Serves as a member of the Division's leadership
team. Develops relationships with staff, other departments and individuals outside county
government that encourage participation, teamwork, effective relationships and use of resources.
Depending upon assignment, the incumbent may perform some or all of the following duties,
which are a representative sample of the level of work appropriate to this position.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Supervises, performs and coordinates the day-to-day administration of the County's GIS
software applications and databases to maintain a productive, secure, and standardized
environment. Analyzes GIS application and database needs, defines solutions and directs their
implementation. Assures timely resolution of GIS user's software operating problems.
Performs specialized project management tasks related to the technical development,
establishment of protocols and maintenance of the countywide GIS repository, ensuring
development and maintenance of the centralized server, base map and associated layers.
Implements programs and analyzes highly complex problems, issues and situations relating to
GIS; develops and implements recommendations. Requires considerable interaction,
cooperation and collaboration with County department heads, GIS Stakeholders, and other
agencies. Acts as a resource and mentor for County departments, assisting them in developing
GIS strategies. Serves as a chair and/or facilitator of coordinating committees.
Participates in the selection of new employees. Advises and provides initial orientation for staff.
Responsible for providing on-the-job training. Determines individual employee needs for
training to meet changing system or program demands and to provide adequate cross-training of
all functions. Assigns, supervises and evaluates work consistent with assigned job description.
Ensures regular and consistent feedback to staff. Conducts performance evaluations to guide the
development of employees and provide a record of performance. Interprets and applies labor
agreements and personnel policies. Makes recommendations regarding employment actions.
Initiates, documents and implements disciplinary actions as approved. Responds to grievances
filed by employees, as assigned.
Serves on the Division's leadership team. Assists in developing recommendations for short- and
long -range plans, programs, goals and objectives for the GIS program. Plans and oversees
details of activities. Organizes and prioritizes workloads, promotes teamwork and schedules
staff to provide for a smooth workflow including adequate work coverage during absences and
vacancies, equitable work distribution and high productivity. Coordinates work with other
departments, staff and contractors to ensure timely completion of projects within approved
budget and in compliance with guidelines, procedures and regulations. Identifies problems
hindering progress towards goals and objectives; recommends solutions or seeks advice as
appropriate; and implements corrective action as directed.
Consults on the development of creative solutions to enhance the development and adoption of
enterprise and regional GIS approaches.
Oversees, documents, and performs the installation, configuration and modification of GIS
applications and databases, as assigned. Coordinates and documents GIS application and
database upgrades, and monitors vendor contracts. Coordinates internal and external software
resources and support to achieve the most cost effective solutions. Plans for capacity, growth,
and upgrading of systems. Develops and maintains effective project plans as directed.
Facilitates and coordinates cooperative planning in conjunction with other departments and
regional partners. Identifies trends and problems hindering progress and develops and
implements recommendation for problem resolution with staff and higher level management.
Performs routine and emergency inspections of GIS software applications and databases to
assure proper care and standards are maintained. Identifies and corrects problems within the
scope of responsibility. Regularly updates and maintains technical knowledge in assigned area.
As assigned, assists in the planning and development of the budget, work schedules and staffing
levels. Maintains expenditures within approved budget. Implements cost - effective measures and
uses resources and technology effectively to increase productivity. Develops and implements
training programs for County staff.
Negotiates contracts for services between departments and outside entities or consultants, as
assigned. Secures, monitors and assures compliance with GIS grants and contracts. Oversees
work of consultants, as assigned.
Initiates or assists in the preparation of correspondence, reports or other documents, keeping
others adequately informed. Oversees records management activities and assures compliance
with legal requirements.
Inspects work performed and verifies reports from staff to ensure work is properly performed in
conformance with established safety practices and applicable legal requirements. Assesses and
assures compliance and interprets and applies regulations equitably. Takes appropriate action to
correct non - conforming practices. Assures that appropriate GIS policies, procedures and tasks,
including security, are established, documented and updated.
Plans, conducts and presents at various types of meetings, including public meetings. Develops
project plans and coordinates or acts as a member of team or group activities facilitating problem
resolution. Communicates changes and progress and completes projects on time and within
approved budget
Monitors technological advancements and developments. Conducts research, performs analysis,
and recommends purchases of applications, data, equipment, and services. Prepares and
evaluates Requests for Proposal (RFP's) as assigned. Conducts the selection process, prepares,
negotiates, coordinates, secures, monitors and oversees compliance of contracts or grants.
Responds to or supervises the resolution of inquiries, complaints, emergencies or requests for
information from other departments and the public in a courteous manner, providing information
within scope of knowledge and authority. Emphasizes public accountability and a positive
public service approach with assigned staff.
ADDITIONAL JOB DUTIES
May perform work of assigned staff or provide back up for and assist others, as needed and
assigned.
Secures, prepares, monitors and assures compliance with grants and contracts.
Represents the County as spokesperson at public meetings, as assigned.
Performs work on special projects that may be outside normal area of assignment, as directed.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), computer science,
information systems, systems engineering, public administration or a related field, AND 4 years
of current, progressively responsible experience using GIS desktop and server software,
hardware and databases, and project management INCLUDING at least 2 years of GIS system
administration, programming, database design and construction AND 2 years of supervisory or
lead experience.
Required:
Experience leading large GIS data sharing consortiums.
Advanced proficiency with ArcGIS Desktop.
Advanced proficiency with framework GIS layers such as Imagery, Roads, Parcels and Control
Experience integrating GIS with key business systems across all county departments
Proficiency with ArcGIS Server and ArcGIS Online
Proficiency with MS SQL Server and MS Access.
Proficiency in documenting and diagramming complex technical systems.
Proficiency with Web content management, Web development and Web graphics.
Desired:
GIS Professional (GISP) Certification.
Experience:
• Writing PowerShell, Visual Basic, Java, Python and other contemporary languages.
• Constructing SQL queries.
• Using Crystal Reports and other industry standard report writing tools.
• Operating current county standard software.
• Using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and other GIS field devices.
• Knowledge of ESRI Local Government Information Model
• Knowledge of local government practices and procedures.
Requires knowledge of
The field of assignment sufficient to perform thoroughly and accurately the full scope of
responsibility as illustrated by example in this job description including GIS database
integration and implementation, advanced database concepts, geoprocessing functions and
techniques, spatial database management procedures, mapping principles, map automation
and analysis.
Principles and practices of supervision, including planning, time management, project
management tools and techniques, staffing, selection, training, coaching, directing, coordinating
and evaluating.
Principles, practices and procedures of effective County -wide and regional GIS program
administration
Applicable local, state and federal laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures related to the
area of assignment.
Fiscal management, including budget preparation, grant administration, service and
intergovernmental contract administration, expenditure control and record keeping.
Computer operation and a variety of software, including word processing, spreadsheet, database,
presentation, diagramming, and other applications related to the area of assignment.
Safety and security hazards, precautions, standards, policies and procedures pertinent to the area
of assignment.
Requires the ability to:
Strategically plan, prioritize, coordinate, organize, schedule staffing and evaluate GIS services.
Train, direct, and coach staff. Prepare, research, administer and change plans, policies and work
programs as necessary.
Provide technical guidance to GIS users. Use tact, discretion, respect, persuasion, diplomacy and
courtesy to gain the cooperation of others and establish and maintain effective teams and
working relationships and rapport with public officials, department heads, co- workers,
employees, representatives of other agencies or entities and diverse members of the public.
Facilitate resolution of problems, grievances and complaints.
Listen attentively and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with individuals and
groups in clear, concise language appropriate for the purpose and parties addressed, including
preparing and making public presentations which can be understood by non - technical listeners
and preparing and /or directing preparation of comprehensive written reports, materials and
correspondence relating to GIS development and activities.
Promote the commitment of the County to provide outstanding public, intra- and inter-
departmental customer service.
Assure that absolute confidentiality is maintained as required and sensitive information is
handled appropriately.
Work effectively in a multi -task environment and effectively delegate responsibility and
authority to staff.
Read, understand, interpret, analyze, provide direction to staff and appropriately apply complex
instructions, policies, procedures, legal requirements and regulations pertinent to the area of
assignment.
Promote staff and team development and high performance through regular and effective
feedback and evaluation.
Estimate and analyze costs and effectiveness of programs, monitor fiscal information, accurately
work with numbers and interpret statistical information.
Apply good judgment and problem - solving techniques to make reasoned, timely and consistent
decisions and resolve problems.
Develop ways to identify, improve and promote efficient systems and processes.
Maintain current knowledge for assigned areas and adapt to new technologies, keeping personal
and team technical skills up -to -date and using technology to increase productivity.
Work independently or cooperatively as a member of a team.
Assure that absolute confidentiality is maintained as required and sensitive information is
handled appropriately.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must have a driving record that meets County standards and possess a valid driver's license at time of
hire and throughout employment.
Must pass job - related tests.
Background check must meet County criteria for security sensitive positions at time of hire and
throughout employment
Must obtain a First Aid /CPR card within six (6) months of employment and maintain throughout
employment.
Must be eligible to cross between the United States and Canada.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Works independently around computer equipment and associated noise, in offices and temperature
controlled computer room, often in confined spaces. May sit or stand for long periods of time. May
occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 30 pounds. Moves throughout the County's facilities.
Bends, reaches, pushes, pulls, twists, crawls under and around furniture to install computer cables or to
check equipment. Periodically drives motor vehicle to perform duties at other sites or travel out of the
County. May be required to attend meetings or perform duties outside of normal office hours. Works
on emergency callout, as needed. May be exposed to noise, environmental and chemical allergens
standard to the area of assignment. Possibility of exposure to hostile and offensive language from the
public. Uses appropriate safety equipment and follows established work safety policies, practices and
procedures.
The statements contained herein reflect, as of the date signed, general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of
knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all - inclusive listing of work requirements.
Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas, to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or
otherwise to balance the workload. At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training
in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.
Whatcom County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion,
national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, military service, genetics, and any other legally protected class. Whatcom County also
complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.
Employee Status: This is an FLSA- exempt position and as such is paid on a salary basis and is not
entitledttertime. The position is also subject to an "employee at will" doctrine.
Signature Date
JDE Job Entry
JDE Special Requirements
Job Code: G250
Reason for Change:
Security: Security Sensitive Medical Privacy: Y
Job Group: SUPV
Standard Language
Driving: Periodically Physical Capacity: N
W/C Code: 1501
Reclassification
CDL: N Physical: N
Group: 7000
BBP: N Polygraph: N
Cash Handlin :N Ps cholo ical: N
Performance Evaluation Form: B6
GIS SUPERVISOR.DoIT.Job HC 5/12/2017