GIS Program Specialist

Capitalizing on over 140 years of history and tradition in downtown Los Angeles, the University of Southern California (USC) is poised to become the preeminent research institution of the 21st century, and we are looking for skilled, motivated professionals to help forge the future of higher education.

The USC department of Facilities Planning & Management (FPM): CAD Services is seeking a GIS Program Specialist to join its team.

The Work You Will Do:

The GIS Program Specialist will manage and coordinate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program activities for Facilities Planning and Management units, as well as other university departments. This role will involve planning, developing, and overseeing GIS program procedures, standards, and data collection efforts. You will coordinate the acquisition and management of CAD, GIS, and other related data, software, and hardware systems. The GIS Program Specialist will also research and implement new techniques and applications to improve efficiency, coordination, and project delivery.

In this role, you will work closely with engineering services, utility distribution staff, project management teams, and various university stakeholders to document and maintain GIS data related to the university's utility distribution systems. You will also lead staff and students in field data collection efforts using GPS and UAV technologies and assist in developing and maintaining GIS applications built with ArcGIS extensions and ArcGIS Server.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate data acquisition and file management across multiple organizational levels, ensuring the integrity of GIS, CAD, and related data files. Set-up and conduct field data collection to verify Facility Management Information.

• Assist in the planning, development, and implementation of short- and long-term strategies for GIS program goals. Coordinate and manage CAD and GIS activities and projects.

• Manage the maintenance of hardware and software systems and assist in developing GIS applications.

• Provide GIS & CAD services to support the USC Facilities Planning and Management (FPM) department, while assisting with planning, budgeting, and proposal development.

• Test and evaluate the effectiveness of GIS program content and recommend modifications as needed.

• Research client needs and recommend improvements to existing GIS programs or propose new services.

• Lead, oversee, and mentor staff, student workers, and graduate assistants involved in GIS projects and field data collection.

• Stay updated on industry developments and maintain an active network of professional contacts.

• Serve as a resource for program information, coordinate services with other departments, and represent the program on university committees.

• Perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Job Qualifications:

The ideal candidate for the position of GIS Program Specialist meets the following preferred qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Geographical Information Science or Civil Engineering.

• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience.

• Expert proficiency in GIS, with experience in using Esri’s suite of tools for Facilities Management and Construction applications, including:

  • ArcGIS Desktop (e.g., ArcMap)

  • ArcGIS Server (for web-based GIS services)

  • ArcGIS Field Apps (e.g., Collector, Survey123, and Field Maps)

  • Cloud Solutions (for cloud-based GIS and data sharing)

  • Esri CityEngine (for 3D modeling and urban planning)

• Experience with JavaScript, SQL, and Microsoft Internet Information Services is a plus.

All candidates for the position of GIS Program Specialist must meet the following minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Geographical Information Science or Civil Engineering (or equivalent experience/education).

• At least 2 years of directly related professional experience.

• Demonstrated experience in creating maps related to Facilities Infrastructure or Construction (e.g., utilities mapping).

• Advanced proficiency in GIS, with experience using AutoCAD/AutoCAD MAP, ArcGIS Pro, and ArcGIS Online.

• A valid, unrestricted CA driver’s license (held for the past 2 years).

In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment to USC’s Unifying Values of integrity, excellence, diversity, equity and inclusion, well-being, open communication and accountability.

The hourly rate range for this position is $29.04 - $33.03. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

About Facilities Planning and Management (FPM):

FPM is responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining the breadth of the facilities at USC, and is also dedicated to creating a safe environment for our USC community. Woven into every service, safety is of upmost importance. As FPM, this diverse group of innovative and talented professionals provide high quality facilities construction, operations and maintenance services at USC and serve as dedicated stewards of USC and FPM core values. FPM values integrity, excellence, diversity, equity and inclusion, well-being, open communication, and accountability. Come and join the FPM team – a team that works as trusted partners shaping an environment of innovation and excellence.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you’re excited about shaping the future of education and joining a high-achieving team, apply today! Help us create transformative learning experiences that prepare students for the future. Submit your resume and application now to be a part of our journey.

The University of Southern California values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.

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Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 2 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related professional experience in program specialization (e.g., Civil Engineering , GIS).