Gis Technician

About the Role

The GIS Technician supports electric distribution operations by collecting, inputting, and maintaining detailed geospatial data for distribution lines and equipment in an ESRI-based GIS environment. This role focuses on asset data management, map creation, quality assurance, and GIS support for engineering and operations teams to ensure accurate, up-to-date representations of the electrical grid.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, input, and maintain accurate geospatial data for electric distribution assets, including poles, transformers, conductors, switches, and meters, within an ESRI-based GIS database.
• Process and update asset information to ensure the GIS database reflects current field conditions and planned changes to the distribution network.
• Produce and update detailed maps and schematics of the electrical grid to support engineering, operations, planning, and field crews.
• Ensure all maps and GIS products are accurate, clearly formatted, and aligned with internal standards and operational needs.
• Perform regular audits and validations of GIS data to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements.
• Identify, investigate, and resolve data discrepancies and errors in the GIS database in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with field personnel to integrate GPS and mobile data collection into the GIS database.
• Reconcile differences between field observations and existing GIS records, updating asset information as needed.
• Provide GIS analysis and mapping support for planning activities, outage management, asset tracking, and system reliability studies.
• Assist engineering and operations teams in modeling and visualizing network changes, expansions, and improvements using GIS tools.
• Use ESRI ArcGIS and, when applicable, ArcGIS Pro to create, edit, and manage spatial data layers and related attribute information.
• Utilize standard computer software, including the Microsoft Office suite, to document work, prepare reports, and communicate findings.
• Collaborate effectively in a team environment, sharing information and supporting colleagues to meet project deadlines and quality standards.
• Leverage CAD software, when applicable, to support mapping and design-related tasks associated with electric distribution assets.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Experience with ESRI ArcGIS software is required, including creating, editing, and managing geospatial data.
• Competency with standard computer software, including the Microsoft Office suite, is required.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment is required.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, mapping, and documentation.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and reconcile geospatial data from multiple sources.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with engineering, operations, and field personnel.
• ESRI ArcGIS Pro is a plus.
• CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) software is a plus.
• Ability to learn and follow established GIS standards, procedures, and quality control processes.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, or a similar field, or a GIS Certificate, or at least 2 years of full-time GIS work experience is required.
• Power distribution knowledge is a plus.
• Prior utilities experience is a plus, particularly in electric distribution or related infrastructure.
• GIS Certificate is considered a strong asset when combined with relevant experience or education.
• Interest in long-term career growth within the utility and geospatial technology field.

Work Environment: The role begins with an approximately three-month training period conducted onsite at the corporate headquarters. After completing training, the GIS Technician primarily works remotely, with occasional in-office presence for work activities, meetings, and additional training as needed. The position requires living within a reasonable commuting distance (up to approximately 50 miles) of the Birmingham, AL office to support periodic onsite work.

Job Type & Location: Contract position based out of Birmingham, AL.

Pay Range: $24.00 - $28.00/hr.