GIS Specialist

About the Role

The GIS Specialist at New South Associates (NSA) produces maps, manages project spatial data, and supports field data collection for archaeological, historical, and other cultural resource projects. The Specialist applies established GIS methods to prepare accurate cartographic products, maintain organized project data, configure field applications, and process survey data. This position requires broad GIS skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration. Entry-level candidates with a strong technical foundation are welcome.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare maps, map series, figures, and exhibits for technical reports, proposals, presentations, and client deliverables using established templates and cartographic standards.
• Compile, organize, and validate spatial datasets; maintain project geodatabases, working files, and Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC)-compliant metadata.
• Apply ArcGIS Pro data management, spatial analysis, symbology, and labeling tools to meet project requirements.
• Digitize features from survey plans and previous reports; georeference historic maps and aerial imagery; and import, process, and convert raster and vector data.
• Create project boundaries and plot survey locations at specified intervals to support field investigations.
• Configure field data collection applications, including ArcGIS Field Maps and Survey123, and process real-time kinematic (RTK) survey data for use in project datasets and maps.
• Update and manage project data in ArcGIS Online and run existing scripts using Esri notebooks.
• Apply established procedures to resolve data discrepancies, seek technical guidance when needed, and develop solutions to moderately complex GIS problems.
• Check GIS products for spatial accuracy, completeness, and cartographic consistency; participate in peer review and address review comments.
• Collaborate with project managers, technical staff, and Production to clarify deliverable requirements and communicate technical findings and data limitations.
• Estimate effort for assigned tasks, track time and progress, and communicate missing information or potential schedule and budget impacts.
• Protect sensitive cultural resource information and follow company standards for data access, sharing, and file management.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro and relevant Esri geospatial tools.
• Demonstrated ability to produce accurate cartographic products suitable for technical reports and client deliverables.
• Understanding of coordinate systems and map projections and best practices for georeferencing and digitization.
• Demonstrated ability to configure ArcGIS Field Maps and Survey123 for field data collection and process real-time RTK survey data for use in GIS datasets and maps.
• Familiarity with running existing GIS scripts or notebooks, with the ability to learn established workflows through guidance.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, written and verbal communication, and ability to collaborate across disciplines.
• Ability to adapt established GIS methods independently, solve moderately complex problems, balance competing tasks within set priorities, and recognize when to escalate issues.
• Relevant skills may be demonstrated through coursework, academic projects, internships, or professional experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Anthropology, Archaeology, Environmental Science, History, Planning, or a related field.
• Preferred: A GIS certificate from a recognized institution OR at least two years of professional GIS experience.
• Preferred: Experience supporting cultural resource management, environmental, transportation, utility, or government projects.
• Preferred: Familiarity with NHPA Section 106 and NEPA project workflows and applicable agency mapping requirements.
• Preferred: Experience managing spatial data in ArcGIS Online and working knowledge of Arcade expressions.
• Preferred: Experience with, or a demonstrated interest in learning, Python for GIS scripting and automation and GEOBIA.
• Preferred: Experience with Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop for cartographic finishing.
• Preferred: Understanding of archaeological, historical, or architectural history data requirements.

Work Arrangement

• In-Office, Stone Mountain, Georgia

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $66,000–$72,000, depending on experience.
• Company-paid insurance.
• Paid holidays.
• Paid time off.
• Qualified bonus program.
• 401(k) plan with corporate match after one year of employment.
• Collaborative work culture.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.