Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) Developer/Specialist

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in GIS, Geography, Computer Science, Information Science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience (typically 2 years or more) in software development or closely related.

• Some experience working hands-on with GIS tools to create, analyze, manage, and visualize spatial data.

• Demonstrated proficiency in standard coding libraries and tools for web map application development, such as Leaflet JS, Mapbox GL JS, MapLibre GL JS, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

• Strong understanding and hands-on experience with GIS software, including ArcGIS and QGIS.

• Familiarity with generating and hosting raster and vector tilesets for use in base maps and interactive applications, including from scanned maps and other primary source data.

• Knowledge of standard geospatial data formats and web data standards, including GeoJSON, SHP, CSV, and XML.

• Ability to collaborate effectively in a consultative and service-oriented environment, with demonstrated flexibility and problem-solving skills.

• Proven experience working with individuals and groups in academic or research settings.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-specialist audiences.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Formal education or certification in geospatial technologies, digital mapping, or a closely related field, with demonstrated application of skills in professional or academic contexts.

• Proficiency in using Python for geoprocessing and automation of GIS workflows, particularly within ArcGIS (e.g., ArcPy) and QGIS (e.g., PyQGIS).

• Experience working in an academic library, research center, or higher education setting, with an understanding of the mission, values, and service orientation of academic libraries.

• Demonstrated ability to contribute to interdisciplinary research projects, particularly in collaboration with faculty and students.

• Familiarity with data management best practices, reproducible research principles, and the use of version control systems (e.g., Git/GitHub) in geospatial work.

• Experience designing and delivering instruction, workshops, or consultations on GIS tools and techniques to users with varying levels of expertise.

• Experience working within a team-based software development environment, including receiving technical guidance or mentorship and applying established development standards.

• Evidence of a commitment to continuous learning and an enthusiasm for exploring emerging tools, technologies, and methods in GIS and digital scholarship.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across academic departments and technical teams.

Application Details:

In order to be considered, applicants must upload the following materials and mark them as “Relevant File” to the submission:

• Resume

• Cover letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.  Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For questions or additional information, please contact melanie-bell@uiowa.edu.

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