Geographic Information Systems Specialist - City of Philadelphia

A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact.

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What we offer

• Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 
• Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 
• Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
• Benefits - We care about your well-being.

Agency Description

The Mayor’s Office of Chief Counsel and PhillyStat360 is charged with providing Mayor Parker, her Chief of Staff, her Chief Deputy Mayors and her office with direct legal counsel while spearheading the Mayor’s initiative, PhillyStat360 which will provide line of sight and wrap-around integration for all city services to ensure that Philadelphians have a government they can see, touch and feel.

Key projects for the office include:

• Creating a system that provides timely and accurate information regarding the provision of city services;
• Developing an accountability and management model, based upon existing CompStat processes, that allows for the rapid deployment of City operational resources to address quality of life and community concerns by using effective tactics and strategies that are routinely reassessed for effectiveness;
• Implementing a sustainable system that provides for relentless follow-up and the authority to nimbly adjust and adapt strategies and tactics when necessary to ensure effective performance of city services and enhance community satisfaction so that Philadelphians have a government that they can see, touch, and feel.
• Counsel/PhillyStat360 will comprise a small, diverse, and nimble team whose members, collectively, have expertise and experience in domains including law, City operational departments, project and performance management, data analysis/data science, policy research and analysis, persuasion/communication, and engagement/collaboration. For most projects, the office will use a matrixed approach, pairing PhillyStat360 team members with those from City operational departments who have the specific expertise – ranging from human-centered design to user experience to digital services – needed for the project.

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS)Specialist (GIS) is a professional who uses  GIS software and technology to analyze, manage, and visualize spatial data. Employees possess a solid understanding of geographic concepts, data structures, and spatial analysis techniques. This role  utilizes GIS software to create, manipulate, and maintain geographic datasets, maps, and databases using ArcGIS Suite of desktop products, ArcGIS Online/Portal and other associated programs. They work closely with stakeholders to identify spatial data needs, develop GIS solutions to address those needs, and communicate findings effectively through maps, reports, and presentations. Additionally, they may provide technical support, and guidance to users of GIS technology.

Essential Functions

• Prepare spatial analyses, data creation, application development, coding, and data extraction/transformation/integrations to support business intelligence needs and measure organizational performance. 
• Complete statistical analysis, predictive analysis, developing metrics using python, -R, Excel, and other related GIS tools.
• Manage complex projects.
• Works closely with the Chief Counsel/Director and their First Deputy to support implementation of processes and systems to maximize employee and City-wide performance on quality-of-life issues in an environment that promotes positive morale, equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Works closely with and supports the GIS Manager
• Develop and maintain geospatial datasets.
• Develop Extraction Transform and Load (ETL) scripts using Python.
• Perform predictive analytics, reporting and visualization of City data.
• Query, analyze and prepare statistics on spatial and non-spatial data using GIS, Excel, -R and other tools. Complete metadata documentation of datasets and processes.
• Create and maintain web map applications published via ArcGIS Online/Portal.
• Prepare and execute workflows and automated routines using Python and Model Builder.
• Prepare and execute queries in spatial and non-spatial databases using SQL. 
• Interact with city departments, GIS managers and analytical staff on data sharing, ETL and other joint projects. 
• Interest in health and human services
• Interest in working with demographic data
• Participate in meetings and events within department, city and wider GIS user community. 
• Assist with preparing and conducting presentations at departmental meetings, training courses and select conferences.
• Administer enterprise platforms and tools (ArcGIS Online, Confluence, etc.) 
• Support team projects and initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge:

• Proficiency in database management: create, edit, update, join, append, and query data from spatial and non-spatial relational databases.
• Proficiency using ESRI ArcGIS 10.x software suite.
• Proficiency using ArcGIS Online/Portal to publish data and produce GIS applications.
• Proficiency in spatial data creation, editing, and maintenance using ArcGIS Desktop and/or ArcGIS Pro.
• Experience with data visualization and graphics tools for the creation of professional presentations, reports, web content, or educational materials.
• Experience authoring Python scripts and creating models in ArcGIS Model Builder for automation of routines and geo-processes.
• Experience in applying equity lens to data analysis, policy, and program evaluation

Skills:

• Ability to create, edit, update, join, append, and query data from spatial and non-spatial relational databases.
• project planning and time management, including setting and meeting goals, setting timelines, and updating managers and team members on status.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in data visualization and graphics tools for creating professional presentations, reports, web content, or educational materials.
• Ability to create and maintain good working relationships and collaborations while being able to work independently and take initiative.
• Proficiency in authoring complex Python scripts and creating models in ArcGIS Model Builder for automation of routines and geo-processes.
• Genuinely excited and enthusiastic about learning and pushing technical limits when finding new solutions.

Abilities:

• Ability to apply ESRI ArcGIS 10.x software suite and ArcGIS Online/Portal to publish data and produce GIS applications.
• Ability to apply proficiency in spatial data creation, editing, and maintenance using ArcGIS Desktop and/or ArcGIS Pro.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues effectively.
• Capacity to adapt to new technologies and methodologies in GIS and related fields.
• Understanding demographic information and experience working with client-level data
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the GIS field.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data management and analysis.

Bachelor’s degree in Geography, Urban Planning, Special Analytics, Geographic Information Systems, Public Health, Natural Resources (analytical focus), Statistics, Information Science, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Engineering, Architecture or a closely related field. Master’s degree is preferred.

Two to three years of experience designing, maintaining, and producing geospatial data, map production and project management experience. At least two years of experience leading GIS activities including analysis, database development and integration.

Preferred Certification: GIS Professional by the GIS Certification Institute.

We value diverse experiences and are open to flexible qualifications. If you are passionate about this role and meet some of the key criteria, we encourage you to apply.

TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume.

Salary Range: $75,000 - $95,000

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:

• Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
• Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 6 weeks of paid parental leave.
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available
• Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
• Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!

Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that  are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov.

For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx