Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST) is looking for a full-time GIS Specialist. Location of the position is flexible depending on the qualified applicant; however, preference may be given to an applicant based in or near a community with a WEST U.S. office (Cheyenne, WY; Laramie, WY; Fort Collins, CO; Golden Valley, MN; Bloomington, IN; Corvallis, OR; Bismarck, ND; Camp Hill, PA; Albuquerque, NM; or Bozeman, MT). 

WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. Since its founding in 1990, the WEST team has shaped the foundation of what we do, and what we believe in through our key values and core principles. Our work matters to our clients, communities, and the environment. Join WEST and discover a company of passionate, committed, and highly motivated individuals.

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

Key Details:

• Salary: $50,000 - $75,000, plus an annual bonus. The salary may vary based on education, knowledge, and experience, and with applicable experience. 
• Number of positions available: 1 
• Position Type: Full-Time 
• Location: Remote; Preference given to candidates near WEST offices (various) 
• Job Closing: February 28, 2025 
• Tentative Start Date: March 2025

The ideal candidate will have experience working with GIS on electric power system infrastructure or other linear infrastructure development (e.g pipelines).  They will also have a broad understanding of concepts and data pertaining to wildlife, the environment, and natural resources. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and maintaining spatial data, producing professional maps, and performing spatial analyses for environmentally focused projects in electric power system infrastructure development. 

While job duties may change over time based on individual skills and expertise, the initial primary job duties for this position typically include:  

• 40% data management, including data formatting, conversion, and directory maintenance 
• 30% cartography/data presentation for field surveys, memos, and reports 
• 15% data analysis and creation, including spatial modeling, digitizing, and data mining 
• 10% technical support and problem solving for other GIS users within the organization, including field staff
• 5% quality review of other GIS users’ report maps and data deliverables 

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all the duties that may be associated.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Geography or GIS, Geomatics, or a related field, such as Remote Sensing, Information Technology, Biology, Environmental Science, or Statistics AND 2 or more years of professional GIS experience 
  • OR Master’s degree in Geography or GIS, Geomatics or a related field, such as Remote Sensing, Information Technology, Biology, Environmental Science, or Statistics  
• Proficiency with Esri ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online 
• Experience with QGIS and Google Earth 
• Experience with ArcGIS Model Builder and some Python scripting 
• Knowledge of spatial modeling and complex analyses 
• Strong understanding of cartographic principles 
• Strong understanding of spatial file formats 
• Great attention to detail 
• Strong problem-solving skills 
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to work with team members in remote offices 

Preferred Skills: 

• Experience working with power system infrastructure data or other linear infrastructure data.
• Understanding of environmental constraints, permit requirements, and natural resource issues involved with infrastructure construction 
• Proficiency with one or more programming languages (Python, JavaScript, R, etc.)
• Experience with GPS technologies and software such as ArcGIS Field Maps, Trimble, Garmin, Trimble, and Pathfinder Office 
• Experience procuring and working with publicly available administrative and environmental data from public sources 
• Experience with web-based applications such as Esri Leaflet, Geoserver, and GeoNode 
• Experience providing real-time support and data solutions to field technicians using a variety of spatial data collection technologies 
• Experience working with remotely sensed data (imagery, LiDAR, etc.) 
• Knowledge of SQL and database administration 

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate must successfully pass a pre- employment background check, drug screening, and DMV records check that meets WEST’s minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company.  A valid driver’s license will be required.

WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, genetics, and any protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.  Further, WEST takes affirmative action to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, and without discrimination, for recruitment, selection, advancement and every other term and privilege associated with employment.