Senior Geographic Information System (GIS) Technician

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for a Senior Geographic Information System (GIS) Technician in the Information Technology Department.


The District:
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.

IRWD Values
Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.

IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.
The Position
Performs difficult and complex skilled duties using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools for the creation and maintenance of GIS facilities and various District maps, diagrams, and exhibits. Supports and administers the District's geographic internet-based mobile solutions, with a strong focus on field data collection workflows, GPS/RTK technology, and Esri mobile/web tools.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the advanced journey-level classification in the GIS Technicians series. Work is performed with direction and a high degree of independence. Assignments are advanced and complex, requiring analytical skills and problem-solving based on experience. Incumbents perform the full range of classification tasks with minimal supervision and may serve as technical leads on field data collection efforts, application development and workflow automation projects. Incumbents are expected to train and mentor GIS Technician I and II positions, student interns, and collaborate closely with operations field crews.

For the full job description and responsibilities of the position, please click here.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs engineering improvement plan research for public and staff.

Maintains working knowledge of IRWD GIS equipment, including but not limited to: high-precision GPS/RTK units, scanners, and plotters.

Supports and automates field workflows through the use of Esri mobile and web applications such as Field Maps, Survey123, QuickCapture, and Experience Builder.

Collaborates directly with field crews to capture, verify, and update spatial and attribute data in the field.

Trains field crews on maintenance of the GIS system, and the collection of GIS assets.

Utilizes RTK-enabled GPS units to collect high-accuracy geographic information, resolve asset location discrepancies, and integrate data into the enterprise GIS.

Reads and interprets civil engineering plans and specifications in order to maintain a geodatabase of District water, recycled water, and wastewater infrastructure in accordance with GIS conversion standards.

Maintains and updates GIS data and Capital/Development plans, incorporating field redlines and integrating with the District's Records Management System.

Produces high-quality cartographic and thematic maps; updates District-wide system atlas maps.

Provides GIS-related support, training, and assistance to users across departments.

Integrates non-GIS databases with GIS to support department operations and reporting needs.

Writes and maintains metadata for GIS layers; ensures data quality and performs QA/QC.

Utilizes scripting languages (e.g., Python, SQL) to automate GIS tasks and workflows.

Supports GIS integration with asset management systems, field operations, and preventative maintenance programs.

Maintains and updates GIS conversion standards and documentation.

Assists in the support and development of GIS web and mobile applications.

Complies with District safety practices and attends relevant safety training.

Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees are considered disaster service workers and may be called upon accordingly.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

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:

Education:

Equivalent to an associate’s degree with an emphasis in geography, geographic information systems, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of five years in GIS or engineering-related work. Experience supporting field-based GIS workflows and GPS/RTK data collection preferred.
• Experience in Water/Wastewater, specifically using the utility network data model is desirable.
• Experience with Esri’s Utility Network data model is desirable.

Licenses/Certificates Required:
A valid Class C California Driver's License is required.

Knowledge of:

• Proficient in using Esri’s ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and enterprise GIS systems.
• Experience using Esri field applications such as Field Maps, Survey123, QuickCapture, and Experience Builder.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Visio).
• Esri Utility Network is highly desirable.
• Experience with JavaScript or other custom application development programming languages is highly desirable.

Ability to:

• Write SQL queries and Python scripts to automate work processes.
• Work with field crews, explain technical concepts, and support GIS data collection in outdoor and operational environments.
• Exercise strong judgment, discretion, and communication skills across office and field contexts.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs., up to 60 lbs. with assistance. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time while performing tasks at a desk or workstation. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard, or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. This may involve repetitive hand movements for extended periods. Ability to reach for documents, supplies, or equipment at varying heights (within a standard office environment) and grasp them, including the use of filing cabinets or shelves. Some bending or stooping may be necessary to retrieve files or materials from lower shelves or desks. Good vision is necessary for reading documents, working with computer screens, and performing tasks that require fine detail. Ability to hear in a standard office environment for communication, phone calls, and meetings.

When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District sites; and vision to locate utilities.

These physical demands may vary depending on the specific duties and expectations of the position.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Noise level is generally equivalent to typical office environment. The office is maintained at a comfortable room temperature. The office is equipped with air conditioning and ventilation systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor air quality. The work area is equipped with adequate artificial lighting, supplemented by natural daylight from windows where available. The employee will work primarily at a desk, using a computer and other office equipment. The office complies with standard safety regulations, including the use of fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency procedures. Employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines. The office environment is free from significant environmental hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, or extreme weather conditions. Ability to work in an environment which may expose employee to hazardous materials and environment. Occasional visits to construction sites where noise level may be higher than typical office environment. When working in the field, employees may be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust, and air contaminants.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District's online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.

New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide

Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Oral Interview Examination: will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.

Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.

IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; anda variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive,and may not be applicable to all employees.

Retirement
Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013:
The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.

Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:
On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.

IRWDdoes not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.

Medical Insurance
IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan.Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Dental Insurance
IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage.IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Vision Insurance
IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Life Insurance
Elgible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Deferred Compensation
Participation in adeferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.

Paid Vacation
Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.

Paid Holidays
The District offers 11 scheduled paid holidaysplus one personal holiday per year.

Sick Leave
Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

Flexible Spending Accounts
Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.

Educational Assistance
The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.

Closing Date/Time: 9/8/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

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• Irvine Ranch Water District

• (949) 453-5360

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