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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a GIS Coordinator

💰 $65,000 - $95,000

Geographic Information SystemsData AnalysisUrban PlanningEnvironmental ScienceTechnology

🎯 Role Definition

A GIS Coordinator is the central hub for an organization's geospatial data and mapping activities. At its core, this role is about transforming raw geographic data into actionable insights, compelling maps, and functional applications. They are not just map-makers; they are data strategists, project managers, and technical experts who ensure that spatial information is accurate, accessible, and effectively utilized to support business operations, strategic planning, and decision-making.

This role is pivotal for bridging the gap between technical GIS capabilities and the practical needs of various departments, such as planning, engineering, marketing, or environmental management. A successful GIS Coordinator manages the entire lifecycle of geospatial data—from collection and quality control to analysis, visualization, and system maintenance—ensuring the organization leverages the full power of "where."

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • GIS Analyst
  • GIS Technician
  • Geospatial Data Specialist
  • Cartographer

Advancement To:

  • Senior GIS Analyst / Coordinator
  • GIS Manager or GIS Director
  • Geospatial Data Scientist
  • GIS Administrator / Systems Architect

Lateral Moves:

  • Data Analyst or Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Urban Planner or Environmental Planner
  • IT Project Manager (with a data focus)
  • Asset Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Develop, manage, and maintain the organization's enterprise geodatabases, ensuring data integrity, accuracy, and currency.
  • Design and produce a variety of high-quality cartographic products, including thematic maps, web maps, and map series for reports, presentations, and public consumption.
  • Perform complex spatial analysis, geoprocessing, and data modeling to answer critical business, operational, and planning questions.
  • Oversee GIS data collection efforts, utilizing GPS, mobile data collection apps (like Field Maps or Survey123), and drone imagery to capture field data.
  • Manage and administer the organization's GIS software and platforms, including ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcGIS Online, or other web GIS environments.
  • Develop and implement standardized procedures for data acquisition, data management, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), and metadata documentation.
  • Automate repetitive GIS tasks and workflows using Python scripting (ArcPy) or ModelBuilder to improve efficiency and reduce errors.
  • Provide dedicated technical support, training, and troubleshooting for all GIS users across the organization, from novice to expert.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for all internal and external GIS-related inquiries, data requests, and project collaborations.
  • Coordinate multi-departmental GIS projects, defining project scopes, setting timelines, managing resources, and ensuring deliverables meet stakeholder requirements.
  • Create and maintain interactive web mapping applications and dashboards to provide self-service access to spatial data and analytical tools.
  • Ensure that all GIS data and applications comply with organizational standards, industry best practices, and data privacy regulations.
  • Evaluate and recommend new geospatial technologies, software, and data sources to enhance the organization's analytical and mapping capabilities.
  • Integrate GIS data with other business systems, such as asset management, CRM, or permitting software, to create a holistic operational view.
  • Prepare and maintain comprehensive technical documentation for GIS datasets, workflows, applications, and system configurations.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and perform exploratory spatial data analysis to uncover trends and patterns.
  • Contribute to the development and execution of the organization's long-term data strategy and geospatial roadmap.
  • Collaborate with various business units and stakeholders to translate their data needs and operational challenges into technical GIS requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and other agile ceremonies within the data and technology teams.
  • Conduct research on emerging trends in the geospatial industry and present findings to leadership and technical teams.
  • Assist in budget preparation and tracking for GIS-related software, hardware, and data purchases.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Esri ArcGIS Suite: Advanced proficiency with the Esri ecosystem, including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise, and associated apps (e.g., Survey123, Field Maps, Dashboards).
  • Geodatabase Management: Strong experience in designing, creating, editing, and managing enterprise and file geodatabases, including versioning and replication.
  • Spatial Analysis: Expertise in using geoprocessing tools to perform complex spatial analysis, such as network analysis, suitability modeling, and raster analysis.
  • Cartography & Data Visualization: A deep understanding of cartographic principles, map design, and the ability to create clear, informative, and visually appealing maps and graphics.
  • SQL & Database Knowledge: Proficiency in writing SQL queries to manage and extract data from relational databases (e.g., SQL Server, PostgreSQL/PostGIS).
  • Automation & Scripting: Experience with Python (especially the ArcPy library) or ModelBuilder to automate workflows and data processing tasks.
  • Web GIS & Application Development: Ability to configure and deploy web maps, web applications, and dashboards using ArcGIS Online/Enterprise or similar platforms.
  • GPS & Mobile Data Collection: Familiarity with GPS technology, coordinate systems, projections, and mobile data collection workflows.
  • Data Standards & Metadata: Knowledge of FGDC or ISO metadata standards and best practices for data quality control and documentation.
  • Project Management: Ability to manage GIS projects from conception to completion, including scope definition, requirements gathering, and stakeholder communication.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: An analytical mindset with the ability to deconstruct complex problems and develop effective, data-driven solutions.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences and collaborate effectively across teams.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and thorough, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of data and map products.
  • Collaboration: A team-player attitude with a proven ability to work constructively with colleagues, stakeholders, and external partners.
  • Project Management & Organization: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Customer Service Orientation: A proactive and helpful approach to supporting internal users and fulfilling data requests.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Education:

  • A Master's degree or a specialized post-graduate certificate in GIS.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Geographic Information Science (GIS)
  • Geography
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Urban Planning
  • Environmental Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-5 years of progressively responsible, professional experience working with GIS technology, data analysis, and database management.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a specific industry relevant to the employer (e.g., municipal government, utilities, environmental consulting, real estate).
  • Proven experience managing GIS projects and supporting users in an enterprise environment.
  • A portfolio of past cartographic work, web maps, or analysis projects is highly desirable.
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