Geographic Information System (GIS) Planning Assistant

at  British Columbia Institute of Technology BCIT

BCIT’s Campus Planning and Facilities department is seeking a temporary, full-time (1.0 FTE) Geographic Information System (GIS) Planning Assistant. This position is responsible for the implementation and maintenance of a Geographic Information System (GIS) to support campus planning initiatives, liaison with other government and utility agencies to compile mapping databases, data analysis and preparation of GIS maps and planning reports, technical work related to land use development and building design standards, assisting with facility feasibility studies, campus planning studies and public consultation processes, and preparing content and format of the departmental website.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Definition: The qualifications section for this position was developed using the approved job evaluation plan, agreed to between the BCGEU and BCIT. The qualifications represent the minimum qualifications required in the future (i.e. to be reflected in job postings) and do not reflect the incumbent’s existing qualifications.

Education:

• Diploma of Technology in Geography and/or Urban Studies from an educational institution that specializes in GIS and urban planning.

Experience:

• Two years general related experience plus two years’ current practical experience working in a city planning department or private sector land use planning firm utilizing a GIS system in an urban planning context.
• Working knowledge of public consultation processes, public opinion survey methodologies and website graphic design. Demonstrated knowledge of land use zoning and building design standards.
• Ability to perform GIS data conversion/editing, map production, spatial data management, and spatial analysis. Proficiency using GIS software such as ArcView and MapInfo GIS systems, and AutoCad; Computer Aided Facility Management system such as Archibus FM; MS Office; and relational databases.
• Self-motivated with an organized working style to meet tight and changing deadlines.
• Strong conceptual and innovative thinking and problem solving skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact with key project stakeholders.
• Must be a team player with a customer service focus.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Configures and implements a geographic information system to support campus development planning initiatives at all BCIT campuses. Prepares and maintains GIS base plans and maps for BCIT campus properties. Liaises with municipal, provincial and utility agencies to compile and confirm GIS baseline mapping databases. Prepares GIS maps and data analysis to support feasibility studies and planning reports. Reviews technical drawings in order to transfer information into the GIS system and maintain compatibility with other departmental information systems, such as Archibus.
• Liaises with department representatives and reviews facility needs related to campus development plans.
• Assists Facilities Management staff with their GIS needs.
• Modifies and maintains a variety of databases specifically related to BCIT Assets under this department.
• Interprets and integrates relevant data from multiple sources, (ie. maps, engineering drawings etc.) from other functions of the FM team and ensures that the information systems are current and readily available.
• Provides technical assistance with the implementation of campus development and land use plans.
• Assists with the development and administration of land use, planning and design standards.
• Conducts physical audits to ensure accuracy of GIS database.
• Assists with the preparation of Ministry capital plan funding requests.
• Prepares reports for the Ministry on land and space utilization and planning as required.
• Assists with the development and implementation of feasibility and planning consultation processes.
• Prepares content and formats for the Facilities and Campus Development website.
• Participates in Records Custodian training and remains current with record keeping practices, policies and procedures, both BCIT and FOIPOP.
• Undertakes related duties as assigned, consistent with the job grade of this position.