Geospatial Data Specialist

The Maryland Department of Planning’s Geospatial Data and Modeling (GDM) Unit is seeking an innovative professional for the role of Geospatial Data Specialist. This position, which reports directly to the manager of the GDM Unit, will be responsible for providing advanced geospatial analysis and modeling, quality assurance, and project management for high-impact GIS initiatives that support statewide Sustainable Growth Principles and state planning initiatives.

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to Maryland Department of Planning’s mission by supporting statewide initiatives with modern, data-driven solutions that advance operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

A written test will be given at the end of the interview process.

This Position is eligible for Telework.

This recruitment is limited to current employees of the Maryland Department of Planning.

STD0019

120 E. Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Geospatial Data Specialist serves as senior technical subject matter expert in the Geospatial Data and Modeling (GDM) Unit. This position provides advanced geospatial analysis and modeling, quality assurance, and project management for high-impact GIS initiatives that support statewide planning, analysis, and policy development. The position drives innovation in areas of sustainable growth and land conservation by applying sophisticated analytical methods, ensures the accuracy, integrity, and sustainability of analytical tools and data products; and coordinates project delivery across internal staff and external partners to advance the Department’s strategic goals and mission.

This position acts as project technical lead and provides detailed quality control and technical oversight for the work of junior analysts.

• Serves as a subject matter expert and technical lead for conducting complex geospatial analysis to support state land-use policy and Sustainable Growth Planning Principles. Provides technical oversight, code/model review, and QA/QC validation for analytical products and tasks assigned to junior staff.
• Performs a range of advanced spatial analyses vector and raster overlay analyses using Python along with ArcGIS Pro. Designs and optimizes spatial data models develops efficient queries or stored procedures in Microsoft SQL Server to handle large, complex enterprise datasets.
• Automates repetitive spatial workflows and ETL processes using Python, SQL, or FME. Establishes data governance protocols, metadata standards, and quality management practices across unit data assets.
• Leads technical GIS analyses for high-impact initiatives and manages project schedules, deliverables, and stakeholder coordination. Develops and maintains ArcGIS Online web applications.
• Acts as a project manager or senior project team member for high-impact geospatial modeling and analysis initiatives.

Education:   Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.

Experience: Six years of administrative staff or professional work. 

Notes:

1. Candidates may substitute 30 credit hours from an accredited college or university for each year up to four years of the required experience.

2. Candidates may substitute the possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and two years of experience in administrative staff or professional work for the required experience. 

3. Candidates may substitute the possession of a Master's degree from an accredited college or university for five years of the required experience.

4. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer involving staff work related to the administration of rules, regulations, policy, procedures and processes, or overseeing or coordinating unit operations or functioning as a staff assistant to a higher ranking commissioned officer on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.

1. Experience performing advanced vector/raster spatial analyses and automating spatial workflows using Python, SQL, Arcade, or ETL tools (e.g., FME) 
2. Demonstrated experience managing projects and establishing QA/QC standards for high-impact geospatial modeling and analysis initiatives. 
3. Proven technical leadership with direct experience coordinating multi-agency GIS initiatives and communicating complex spatial models to non-technical stakeholders. Strong written and verbal communication skills; strong attention to detail. 
4. Experience as a subject matter expert leading GIS analysis on land use or sustainable growth related datasets.

This recruitment is limited to current employees of the Maryland Department of Planning.

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland.

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to: Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received in our office by the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at Application.Help@maryland.gov or 410-767-4850, MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.