GIS Specialist – Senior

Nelson Intelligence Solutions is seeking a Senior GIS Specialist to provide advanced geospatial analysis, systems design, and application support within a mission-driven GIS Service Center. This role focuses on designing and implementing GIS solutions, developing databases and automation workflows, and supporting enterprise GIS operations while contributing to complex, multidisciplinary projects in water resources, environmental management, infrastructure, and land use planning.

Team members must be located within 50 miles of assigned offices in the following locations: Glendale, AZ; Yuma, AZ; Fresno, CA; Sacramento, CA; Shasta Lake, CA; Temecula, CA; Denver, CO; Grand Junction, CO; Loveland, CO; Boise, ID; Billings, MT; McCook, NE; Boulder City, NV; Carson City, NV; Albuquerque, NM; Bismarck, ND; Klamath Falls, OR; Austin, TX; Provo, UT; Salt Lake City, UT; Yakima, WA; Mills, WY.

Responsibilities

• Perform systems analysis to define GIS requirements and design solutions aligned with program and project needs.
• Support concept development, system architecture, and implementation planning for GIS applications and workflows.
• Translate user requirements into scalable geospatial data structures and processing workflows.
• Design, implement, and maintain enterprise and project-level geodatabases, ensuring data integrity and usability.
• Develop schemas, data models, and standards that support repeatable and efficient GIS operations.
• Maintain and update GIS databases in alignment with enterprise data governance practices.
• Develop and maintain automation tools, scripts, and macros to support data processing, analysis, and production workflows.
• Support development and enhancement of GIS applications and analytical tools.
• Utilize technologies such as Python and ModelBuilder to streamline geospatial processes.
• Perform advanced spatial analysis and data processing to support project deliverables.
• Produce high-quality maps, datasets, and analytical outputs that meet defined standards and client requirements.
• Support digitizing and data development tasks as required for project execution.
• Implement GIS solutions across projects, including user/project setup and configuration.
• Maintain application software and provide technical troubleshooting for GIS systems and workflows.
• Support coordination with technical teams to ensure effective integration across systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in GIS, Geography, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3–5 years of GIS experience using Esri software in a production or analytical environment.
• 3+ years of experience with Python and/or ModelBuilder for geospatial automation and analysis.
• Strong proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and the Esri platform.
• Experience with geodatabase design, spatial data modeling, and data management best practices.
• Experience developing automation workflows and analytical procedures.
• Solid understanding of GIS data processing, mapping, and cartographic principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail with a focus on data accuracy and quality.
• Ability to design efficient and scalable geospatial workflows.
• Effective communication and collaboration across technical teams.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities within project schedules.
• Valid driver's license, good driving record, and ability to pass a driving record background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with enterprise GIS environments, including ArcGIS Enterprise or similar platforms.
• Familiarity with web GIS, ArcGIS Online, or distributed data environments.
• Experience supporting multidisciplinary projects involving environmental analysis, land use, or infrastructure.
• Completion of relevant Esri training courses (e.g., geodatabases, visualization, enterprise data management) within the last two years (may substitute for some experience).

Pay

The projected range for this position is $40 to $50 hourly, depending on skills, experience, location, and market conditions.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package.