County of Alameda

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

The Fire Department Geographic Information Systems Specialist classification is located in the Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) and reports to the Fire Department Geographic Information Systems Administrator. The employees in this classification perform a variety of work related to the support, development, and maintenance of the GIS as it relates to the CAD System used within ACRECC.  Employees in this classification receive direction from the Fire Department Geographic Information Systems Administrator or other ACFD Chief Officers. The employees in this classification perform geospatial work primarily to support the CAD System, but also to produce a variety of maps and other outputs, such as reports, and resolves moderately complex computer operating system network problems. Also performs a variety of data entry, manipulation, integration, and output production, and may pilot drones for use in mapping and incident response. 

This classification is distinguished from the next higher-level position of Fire Department GIS Administrator in that the latter is responsible for management of the GIS Program within ACFD and for subordinate staff.

1. Assists with the implementation and maintenance of a comprehensive GIS database, including updating the base map layer and additional layers as needed; ensures accuracy of data and information such as address points and street centerline data in accordance with CAD system requirements; modifies attributes in accordance with best practices or internal procedures. 
2. Retrieves, organizes, integrates and digitizes information and data into the appropriate GIS database.
3. Makes and carries out routine decisions regarding data management and modifications, often without additional guidance or supervision. 
4. Troubleshoots, repairs, and reports hardware and software problems as needed, including collaborating with, and reviewing the work of, external vendors, consultants, contracting agencies, and other organizations as appropriate. 
5. May pilot ACFD drones for use in mapping and incident response.
6. Routinely uses and may instruct other staff in the use of GIS software, databases, and related hardware such as large format plotters, copiers, laminators and other office equipment. 
7. Prepares a variety of correspondence, documentation and other written materials; updates procedural manuals as assigned.
8. Creates, designs, prepares, and analyzes maps, data, and/or graphics using appropriate software programs including modifying existing software programs as needed to assist personnel and for presentation purposes. 

Completion of two (2) years college (60 semester or 90 quarter units), including coursework in trigonometry, computer-aided drafting, geographic studies, computer science or other related technical subjects.

Experience:

The equivalent of two (2) years of full-time experience in any combination of automated map drafting, GIS database maintenance or a field directly related to the work using geographic information or other spatial software and databases. 

Substitution:

Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with major coursework in engineering, computer science, information systems, geography, environmental studies, or a field related to the work may substitute for the education and experience patterns listed above.

License: 

Candidates must possess a valid California State Motor Vehicle Operator's license. 

Special Requirements: 

This classification requires the employees to meet Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance standards.

Candidates must pass a psychological evaluation, a medical examination and a thorough background evaluation after an offer of employment will be made. Any felony conviction will result in disqualification.  

Candidates must be US citizens.  

NOTE: The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualifications in the announcement of an examination.

Knowledge of:

• GIS concepts and analytical techniques, including computerized mapping and digital data conversion, manipulation, and analysis.
• Principles and practices of records management and data collection techniques.
• Pertinent federal and state laws and regulations. 
• ArcGIS software principles, methods and techniques, including applicable software such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap, and ArcGIS Online.
• Principles and procedures of quality assurance and security related to computer information systems.
• Cartographic principles.
• Microsoft Office Applications.
• GIS concepts and analytical techniques, including computerized mapping and digital data conversion, manipulation, and analysis.
• Basic GPS concepts and procedures.
• Modern office practices and procedures.
• Proper English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• Perform GIS data queries using various programming languages Computer-aided drafting software usage and procedures.
• Geographic systems software and databases.
• Recordkeeping principles and practices.
• System documentation principles and practices.
• Techniques for the basic installation and troubleshooting of GIS-related software, including databases.
• Use of office equipment such as printers, plotters and laminators.
• Techniques for explaining technical concepts to non-technical users.

Ability to:

• Integrate various spatial and non-spatial data into GIS databases from multiple sources.
• Explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
• Use computer-aided drafting and GIS software to produce digital maps, hardcopy maps, databases and other documentation as requested. 
• Perform various GIS database functions, including developing standards and methodologies for use of the GIS database.
• Install, troubleshoot and upgrade GIS software. 
• Prepare clear and concise work documentation, update procedures and technical reports.
• Maintain accurate records and files. 
• Organize work, set priorities and meet critical deadlines.
• Use initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
• Instruct non-technical users in software use and procedures.
• Establish and maintain effective and professional working relationships. 
• Make sound independent decisions within established guidelines.
• Communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
• Prepare various graphic maps, diagrams, exhibits and displays for presentation purposes. 
• Interpret aerial photographs.