Lead GIS Specialist

Position Details

Lead Geographic Information System (GIS) Specialist – Full‑time hybrid role based out of Insignia’s Menlo Park headquarters or Encinitas office. Open to remote applicants; regular client interaction and availability for meetings within the California Pacific Time Zone is required.

The Lead GIS Specialist provides advanced technical expertise in acquiring, organizing, analyzing, and mapping GIS data while ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and consistency across deliverables. The role requires coordinating with project managers and directly interfacing with clients to support project planning, execution, and delivery.

• Research, implement, and apply industry‑standard methods for GIS data analysis.
• Manage and organize geospatial data for accessibility, accuracy, and consistency.
• Develop high‑quality maps, datasets, and analysis products in support of client deliverables.
• Provide field staff and biologists with maps, mobile GIS devices, and GPS units.
• Process and analyze field‑collected data such as wetland delineations, vegetation mapping, and biological survey data.
• Coordinate with Project Managers to integrate GIS tasks into project schedules and budgets.
• Serve as a GIS technical lead in client meetings and support proposal development, including scopes and cost estimates.

• Bachelor’s degree in geography, GIS, environmental science, planning, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of professional GIS experience, with at least 4 years of environmental consulting strongly preferred.
• Strong technical expertise with Esri platforms:
  ArcGIS Pro, Arc Map, ArcGIS Online, and ArcGIS Field Maps.
• Experience creating, editing, publishing, and managing services in Esri’s ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online.
• Advanced proficiency in geospatial data management, including vector and point data types, symbology, stored displays, and dataset creation.
• Strong knowledge of network connectivity concepts for electric, gas, and water GIS.
• Proficiency with geoprocessing tools, GIS data migration/conversion, and data analysis techniques.
• Demonstrated programming and automation skills (Python, Arcade, Model Builder, SQL).
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, and related platforms.
• Ability to prepare technical documentation and develop testing strategies to validate solutions.
• Proven ability to complete projects within time and budget constraints.
• Detail‑oriented, highly organized, proactive, and capable of working independently.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate with Project Managers and interface directly with clients.

• Annual salary range: $70,000 to $100,000.
• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, paid time off, leaves of absence, voluntary benefits, employee assistance program, retirement savings plan, and bonuses.

Insignia is an equal‑opportunity employer. Insignia does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, sexual identity, mental or physical disability, genetic predisposition or characteristics, or any other characteristics protected by applicable state or federal civil rights law.