DEFINITION

Under general supervision, the GIS Intern performs a variety of technical work in support of Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency’s Geographical Information System (GIS) daily operational tasks. This position prepares, maintains, converts, collects, and updates the Agency’s GIS database.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS 

The GIS Intern performs basic GIS routine duties. Employees at this level are not expected to perform with the same independence of direction and judgment as employees assigned to the GIS Technician and Analyst levels. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED

Receives general direction from GIS Analysts. Incumbents in this class do not exercise direction over Agency staff.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Depending upon assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Assist the GIS department as needed.
• Working basic knowledge of ArcGIS software.
• Update a variety of geodatabases in the maintenance of GIS applications.
• Enter data into GIS data fields/tables.
• Generate GIS products such as maps, graphics, and reports.
• Participate in department meetings.
• Operate GIS hardware including large format plotters and scanners.
• Perform other duties as required.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS  

Positions within this class require light physical effort that may include occasional light lifting to a 20-pound limit and some bending, stooping, or squatting. Considerable walking may be involved.

QUALIFICATIONS (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification)

Education and/or Experience

Option 1 

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major/minor in geographic information systems, geography, or a closely related field requiring equivalent coursework in geographic information systems. 

Option 2 

An Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in geographic information systems, geography, or a closely related field requiring equivalent coursework in geographic information systems AND one (1) year of full-time technical experience in the uses and operations of geographic information systems, including entry, editing and retrieval of geospatial data in GIS databases. 

Option 3 

A high school diploma or GED equivalent and two (2) years of full-time technical experience primarily engaged in the uses and operations of geographic information systems, including the entry, editing and retrieval of geospatial data in GIS databases.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES (The following are a representative sample of the KSA’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position) 

Knowledge of:

• Basic GIS applications.
• Proper English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Modern office methods, procedures, and personal computer operating systems.
• Safe working practices. 
• GIS concepts and automated drafting and mapping tools.
• Principles of algebra, geometry and trigonometry related to the computation of distances, angles, and areas.

Ability to:

• Perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Deal courteously and tactfully with customers, Agency staff, and the general public.
• Effectively operate a personal computer and job-related software.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.