GIS Specialist

At Service Nova Scotia, we impact every citizen, business, and municipality in Nova Scotia. We conduct over five million client interactions each year through the various programs and services we deliver on behalf of the government. We continuously strive to make our programs and services more responsive to the needs and expectations of Nova Scotians.

This client-focused, problem‑solving role offers an excellent opportunity to build your analytical skills and advance your career through hands‑on experience and professional development. You’ll work alongside a dedicated team of geomatics professionals committed to improving provincial GIS datasets and refining maintenance strategies and quality control programs.

Reporting to GIS Coordinators at the Nova Scotia Geomatics Centre in Amherst, the Geographic Information System (GIS 1‑2) Specialist is responsible for the collection, manipulation, analysis, development, maintenance, and mapping of government‑related spatial datasets. Documenting processes and procedures is a key part of the role.

Collaboration with stakeholders and data providers, along with the use of remotely sensed data such as aerial photography, satellite imagery, LiDAR, and Pictometry, is essential to maintaining the foundational provincial datasets. Digitizing source materials and integrating GPS data are also necessary for this work.

• Maintaining and promoting GIS best practices and quality control standards
• Managing and maintaining geospatial databases
• Creating and maintaining digital geospatial data and products
• Developing and publishing GIS applications for provincial government partners using ArcGIS Online (AGOL) and/or Esri Enterprise/Portal
• Producing cartographic products that adhere to standards and prioritize accessibility
• Researching and developing new geospatial products and solutions
• Utilizing remote sensing data such as aerial photography, orthophotos, and LiDAR, including the creation of derived products such as DEMs
• Supporting and maintaining databases, distributable datasets, map services, and mapping applications, including the creation of technical documentation
• Providing technical support and training to other provincial departments, municipalities, and First Nation communities on spatial information needs
• Assisting clients in locating and accessing the geospatial data and products they require
• Enhancing the client experience by exploring and testing self‑serve data distribution solutions

The successful candidate must have one of the following education levels:

• Graduation from an approved Geomatics program at a recognized GIS technical school and/or
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant Geomatics field

The ideal candidate will have knowledge and/or experience in the following:

• Experience with geographic information systems and related database applications
• Self‑starter with a positive attitude who applies a regular application of independent, sound judgment to solve problems in –Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills, good organizational and strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to exercise a logical approach to analyzing problems, interpret client needs while building relationships, adapt to new methodologies and software applications, interact with outside organizations and the public in a professional manner
• Work cooperatively and collectively in a team environment
• Attention to detail and strong time management skills
• Ability to embrace changing technology and innovate internal processes to make the most of changes in technology
• Manage multiple tasks with conflicting priorities while meeting deadlines

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

The following qualifications will be considered assets. Please clearly state and demonstrate any of the following:

• Experience working with province-wide datasets maintained by our section, including:
  • Nova Scotia Civic Address File
  • Nova Scotia Road Network
  • Nova Scotia Topographic Database
  • Nova Scotia Orthophotography Database
  • Nova Scotia Geographic Names Database
  • Nova Scotia Aerial Photography Database
  • Nova…