Assistant Planner / GIS (Meridian, ID)

POSITION OVERVIEW
Innovation, collaboration, inclusivity and proactivity are highly valued at COMPASS. The Assistant Planner provides a key support role for COMPASS’ Technical Services team. The GIS Assistant Planner should expect to have a primary focus on the COMPASS Geographical Information System (GIS), but should also expect to contribute to additional planning efforts at various times throughout the regional long range planning cycle as needed. The work in this position involves the performance of routine to moderately difficult professional planning tasks under the direction of a more senior planner. The Assistant Planner will be responsible for assisting in the operating, updating, and maintenance of COMPASS GIS.

EXAMPLES OF WORK
 Perform the implementation and maintenance of the COMPASS GIS; create, maintain, inventory, and analyze data.
 Maintain and update GIS data in a routine manner.
 Ensure the integrity, quality, and accuracy of a variety of GIS data.
 Design and develop various GIS maps, routine and special requests, to accommodate the GIS needs of COMPASS staff, COMPASS member agencies, and the public.
 Geocode data such as building permits, employment data, and other data at the request of member agencies.
 Maintain and update Census data - annexations, address points, Census road layer.
 Conduct analysis using a variety of data by both following existing processes and developing new methods as needed for COMPASS reports. Analysis will be conducted using python scripting, model builder, and/or specialty extensions.
 Follow, maintain and update procedural documentation in content management software.
 Gather and transform geographic and tabular data from various sources for integration into COMPASS GIS; provide updated data information to member agencies as necessary.
 Follow procedural documentation to creating layers for the Performance Monitoring Report (PMR).
 Digitize data using aerial imagery and other available information following topology rules. Some recent examples are enrollment zones for schools, bus routes, and the current land use layer.
 Assist in the development of web applications and maps using ArcGIS Online and other emerging technologies.
 Stay abreast of new and emerging trends and changing technologies in the field of GIS; read pertinent industry publications; attend meetings and training as required.
 Perform other tasks as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING
 Proficiency with Geographic Information Systems, (ArcGIS 10.X or above preferred), Windows operating systems, MS Office suite, and Adobe. This is defined by having the existing ability to compile and analyze GIS data, read and interpret maps and data, and prepare accurate maps.
 Ability to adapt to changing technologies and learn functionality of new equipment and systems.
 Ability to make complete, logical, and accurate mathematical calculations.
 Professional communication skills, both verbal and written,
 Ability to receive coaching, instruction, and feedback with a cooperative and positive attitude,
 Ability to respond skillfully to frequent change in both data inputs and work priorities.
 Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
 Ability to respond to inquiries in a professional and positive manner and to present a professional image to the public.
 Associate's degree in Mapping, Geography or other GIS related fields or a combination of experience and education sufficient to meet the requirements for this position.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
 Must be available for periodic evening and weekend events and meetings.
 Must be able to successfully pass a background check process which includes reference and criminal history checks.
 Must be able to obtain a valid Idaho driver’s license.

WORKING CONDITIONS
The physical effort characteristics and working environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 Occasionally lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds.
 Occasionally pushing/pulling up to 20 pounds.
 Work includes sensory ability to speak and hear; also includes close and distance vision.
 Requires hand/finger dexterity.
 Employees will sit, stand and walk.
 Work environment includes inside conditions.
 Employees may drive a vehicle as part of this position, in various weather and road conditions.
 Employees may work occasional evenings and/or weekends.

CLASSIFICATION
This is a full time, non-exempt position.

HIRING SALARY RANGE
$40,000 to $43,500, plus comprehensive benefits. Starting salary is dependent on skills, experience and education.

HOW TO APPLY
Submit resume, cover letter and salary history/requirements electronically to Megan Larsen at [email protected].

​The position is open until filled. In compliance with Title 65, Chapter 5 of the Idaho Code, preference will be given to veteran’s preference eligible applicants. COMPASS reserves the right, at the discretion of the appropriate appointing authority, to waive any of the minimum qualifications for those applicants whose general or specific qualifications would otherwise qualify the applicant for the position or lead the appointing authority to believe that the applicant is capable of performing the assigned duties and fulfilling the assigned responsibilities.