GIS and Data Systems Specialist (TPS4)



GIS and Data Systems Specialist (TPS4)

Salary

$78,094.00 - $105,008.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle – Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

24DOT-HQ-05250

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

04/03/2024

Closing Date

4/24/2024 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 
 
The Opportunity
WSDOT’s Active Transportation Division is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 to serve as a GIS and Data Systems Specialist in Seattle, WA. This specialist will serve as the geospatial data development and data management lead for the division, and provide analytical support for capital projects, active transportation funding programs, and other programs serving active transportation users. The top candidate will also provide general geospatial and data analysis support to the Active Transportation Division including establishing and facilitating effective data storage and retrieval systems, consistent with lean data principles, industry best practices, and agency geospatial data standards. Additionally, this position will serve as the liaison to WSDOT’s Transportation Data and GIS Office (TDGO) and Technology Services Division (TSD) groups and as the agency’s trails and paths data coordinator.
 
What to Expect
This is a highly collaborative position, involving teams both inside and outside of the agency. The chosen candidate will have a central role in shaping active transportation data development and data management for the agency. Many tasks will require creative solutions and iterative approaches to both support ongoing agency work and to advance the state of practice with respect to active transportation data and geospatial analysis. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the GIS and Data Systems Specialist will:

  • Conduct GIS analyses and/or recommend analysis procedures. 
  • Participate on WSDOT region capital projects teams as an active transportation geospatial data subject matter expert. 
  • Implement geospatial methodologies critical to active transportation, including but not limited to methods developed for the Sandy Williams Connecting Communities Program (SWCC). 
  • Coordinate with the WSDOT Transportation Safety and Systems Analysis Division (TSSAD) on active transportation safety data analysis efforts.
  • Coordinate with staff within and outside of WSDOT with respect to analysis of ADA accessibility, alignment and coordination between the active transportation plan, ADA Transition Plan, asset management plan, and other relevant data sources, and reporting on progress and performance metrics with respect to accessible active transportation.
  • Develop new enterprise active transportation data layers from existing datasets and new active transportation data from novel sources. 
  • Support efforts to maintain trails/paths data of interest to the agency.
  • Serve as active transportation liaison to TDGO and TSD.
  • Prepare crash data and equity/environmental justice analysis for review by division staff within GIS. 
  • Summarize a variety of active transportation data in maps by region and county.
  • Provide GIS training as needed for active transportation specific activities performed by division staff and others. 
  • Provide mapping support for division activities. 
  • Serve as an active transportation data steward and/or provide support for data stewards that manage active transportation related datasets. 
 
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  • Bachelor's degree involving major study in transportation, geographic information systems, landscape architecture, environmental or urban, regional or land use planning, geography, engineering, public or business administration, economics or natural or physical sciences, information technology, data science, or another relevant field. 
  • Two (2) years relevant experience conducting Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis of environmental issues and problems or other relevant topics (e.g., public health, housing, ADA accessibility) OR two (2) years of experience as an Associate Planner, Transportation Planning Specialist 3, or equivalent role at a public agency, non-governmental organization, or private consulting firm. A master's degree in transportation, landscape architecture, environmental or urban, regional or land use planning, public or business administration, geographic information systems, the physical sciences, or another relevant field may substitute for experience. 
  • Two (2) years of experience working at least 50% time delivering GIS based services/products for use by others and demonstrated skills and experience applying GIS technologies, spatial data concepts, and cartographic principles.
  • Experience working with Esri or other GIS software (ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS for Enterprise), specifically related to creation of data, web maps or configured applications in ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS for Enterprise. 
  • Experience in the use of standard Microsoft Office products, including but not limited to: Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 
  • Evidence of commitment to serving the public, particularly underserved and under-resourced communities, and advancing the intersection of equity and racial justice. 
  • Ability to convey ideas, facts, and technical information orally and in writing using language the audience will best understand. 
  • Ability to attend occasional meetings in person as needed to fulfill job responsibilities. 
  • Ability to sit or stand at a desk for an extended period of time.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  • Training or experience with Python scripting language, R, Model Builder, or equivalent. 
  • Certification as a Geographic Information System Professional (Geographic Information Systems Certification Institute https://www.gisci.org/).
  • Completion of eight hours of Esri certified training within the past three years (on-line & self-directed courses are acceptable). 
  • Training or experience with databases and SQL Server. 
  • Experience with and an understanding of active transportation modes of travel. 
  • Experience and knowledge of transportation and/or land use issues on a local, state, and/or national level affecting Black, Indigenous, and racialized people, people with disabilities, people living on a limited income, immigrant and refugee community members, and nondrivers. 
  • Bilingual candidate preferred, particularly with competence in the languages identified in WSDOT’s Language Access Plan for statewide vital documents (Arabic, Chinese, Somali, Korean, Vietnamese, Spanish, and Russian). 
  • Evidence of continuing education and/or relevant credentials such as coursework in data science or data analysis, computer programming, bicycle/pedestrian facilities planning or design courses, accessible design in the public right-of-way, Road Safety Professional certification, or other relevant education/credentials. 
  • Knowledge and skills in document design; graphic design; technical writing; document usability and ADA accessibility standards; English grammar, punctuation, spelling, tone and diction; data use, design, analysis and presentation; print and electronic publishing. 
  • Knowledge of style guides and ability to apply information and graphic design best practices.
 
Important Notes 
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. The official duty station and/or frequency of telework for this position will be determined based on candidate preference and overall business needs.
  • The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. 
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. 
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
 
Why WSDOT 
  • Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
  • Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.  
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information. 
 
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? 

How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. 
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: 
  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. 
 
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
 
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.
 
WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov
 
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Olivia.Dietrich@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 24DOT-HQ-05250 in the subject line. 

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the
Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.


Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.


As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01
Please select the response that best describes the highest level of education you have completed involving major study in transportation, geographic information systems, landscape architecture, environmental or urban, regional or land use planning, geography, engineering, public or business administration, economics or natural or physical sciences, information technology, data science, or another relevant field:
  • Master's degree or higher
  • Bachelor's degree
  • None of the above
02
If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter 'N/A.'
03
Do you have two (2) or more years of experience (including volunteer experience) working at least 50% of the time delivering GIS based services/products for use by others and applying GIS technologies, spatial data concepts, and cartographic principles?
  • Yes
  • No
04
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience (including volunteer experience) conducting Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis of environmental issues and problems or other relevant topics (e.g., public health, housing, ADA accessibility):
  • I have over five (5) years of this experience.
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
05
In reference to the previous question, please describe where and how you gained your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter 'N/A.'
06
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as an Associate Planner, Transportation Planning Specialist 3, or equivalent role at a public agency, non-governmental organization, or private consulting firm:
  • I have over five (5) years of this experience.
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
07
In reference to the previous question, please describe where and how you gained your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter 'N/A.'
08
Please describe your experience and knowledge of transportation and/or land use issues on a local, state, and/or national level affecting Black, Indigenous, and racialized people, people with disabilities, people living on a limited income, immigrant and refugee community members, and nondrivers. If you do not have this experience, please enter 'N/A.'
09
Please select all that apply. Which Esri or other GIS software do you have experience using, specifically related to creation of data, web maps or configured applications?
  • ArcGIS Desktop
  • ArcGIS Pro
  • ArcGIS Online
  • ArcGIS for Enterprise
  • Other GIS software
  • None of the above
10
If you selected 'other GIS software' please list below. Otherwise, enter 'N/A.'
11
This position requires the ability to attend occasional meetings in person as needed to fulfill job responsibilities. Are you willing and able to comply with this essential job function?
  • Yes
  • No
12
This position requires the ability to sit or stand at a desk for an extended period of time. Are you willing and able to comply with this essential job function?
  • Yes
  • No
13
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Engineering.com
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
14
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact