GIS Data and Visualization Engineer

About the role

This role focuses on the acquisition, processing, analysis, data management, and visualization of geospatial and spatial-temporal data to support critical infrastructure characterization, land use planning, environmental management, and decision-making across the Laboratory. The GIS Data and Visualization Engineer will apply established GIS tools and methods while progressively developing skills in modern visualization technologies — including web-based spatial applications, 3D data environments, and interactive visual tools — to make complex geospatial data accessible and useful across a broad range of stakeholders and programs. Working under general supervision, the successful candidate will exercise developing judgment, contribute to project milestones, and grow toward greater independence as expertise expands.

Responsibilities

• Support geospatial database maintenance and management, including importing, exporting, querying, and quality control of spatial data within ArcGIS Enterprise environments.
• Develop and support web-based mapping applications and spatial data visualization tools, applying GIS platforms and growing familiarity with web visualization technologies.
• Apply geospatial tools and concepts to support spatial and temporal data analysis across diverse applications, including environmental management, infrastructure planning, and campus development.
• Perform spatial data collection, processing, and management, ensuring data accuracy, integrity, and compliance with established standards, including QA/QC.
• Perform work building a variety of subject matter domains which may include spatial and temporal data analysis and modeling, visualization, cartography, web-based mapping application development, spatial database development management, spatial data collection, CAD, visualization tools, data mining tools, model and simulation, and expert analysis.
• Develop geospatial data visualization tools and products that translate complex spatial and temporal datasets into clear, actionable 2D and visual outputs for scientists, engineers, planners, and decision-makers.
• Create and maintain maps for land use planning, infrastructure characterization, natural resource management, emergency management, and other Laboratory applications using ESRI products and other GIS tools.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary technical teams to gather project requirements and deliver visualization solutions that support programmatic needs.
• Provide technical support for geospatial data users; assist in the implementation and documentation of geospatial solutions, user guides, and data source records.
• Participate in demonstrations and workshops of visualization capabilities for internal stakeholders, scientists, and engineers.
• Actively develop skills in 3D visualization environments, browser-based spatial applications, and extended reality (XR) platforms as a defined component of professional growth within INL's advanced visualization program.
• Build collaborative working relationships with Laboratory staff and partner organizations to support the application of geospatial visualization across INL programs.
• Assess and document the performance and quality of geospatial data products and visualization outputs; recommend improvements through established channels.
• Participate in the development and implementation of data governance frameworks with the GIS program at the INL.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, Computer Science, Visualization, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience (EX3) or 9 years (EX4); a Master's degree may substitute for experience per INL's Exempt Career Progression Matrix.
• 2-4 years working experience with SQL Server (SSMS, SSIS, SSRS), proficiency with commercial GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and foundational geospatial data management practices in an Enterprise environment, and GIS analysis techniques.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in GIS.
• GISP Certification.
• Experience with SQL geodatabase data management, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, and/or Portal for ArcGIS administration across the full ESRI technology stack.
• Familiarity with 3D data formats, 3D spatial analysis, or 3D visualization environments.
• Programming experience in Python, JavaScript, R, or similar languages applied to geospatial or data visualization tasks.
• Exposure to or interest in extended reality (XR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), or virtual reality (VR) technologies.
• Experience or interest with remote sensing, LiDAR processing, or photogrammetry tools (e.g., Agisoft PhotoScan, Pix4D).
• Familiarity with spatial database concepts (SQL, NoSQL, or Graph databases).
• Understanding of object-oriented programming principles.
• A minimum of 10 years relevant experience.

Pay & Schedule

• Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our REC facility with every other Friday off.
• The pay range for this position is: Level 3 ($95,256 - $195,288) / Level 4 ($114,360 - $234,336). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
• Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions).
• Paid time off (personal leave).
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions).
• Comprehensive Relocation Package.
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.