GIS Visualization Specialist

Halifax Regional Municipality is inviting applications for the permanent, full-time position of GIS Visualization Specialist with the Planning Information Services division in Planning and Development.

Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is committed to reflecting the community it serves and recognizing Diversity and Inclusion as one of the Municipality’s core values. We have an Employment Equity Policy and we welcome applications from African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Women in occupations or positions where they are underrepresented in the workforce, Indigenous/Aboriginal People, Persons with Disabilities and 2SLGBTQ+ Persons. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify on their electronic application.

The GIS Visualization Specialist provides advanced technical support to Planning and Development, specializing in modeling, mapping, spatial data management, analysis, and graphics. They support planning scenarios, reviews, model integration, and analysis configurations with in-depth knowledge of relevant plans and policies. The Specialist combines creativity and problem-solving to address complex 3D spatial challenges in urban and rural landscapes. They manage and analyze geospatial data, process digital spatial attributes, and produce high-quality datasets within a geographic database.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

3D Modeling and Visualization:

1. Coordinates cross-departmental programs, setting priorities and supporting design, scenario development, and engagement.
2. Creates 3D models, renderings, and design visuals for urban planning and development.
3. Manages the Digital Twin and 3D printed model, producing digital visuals, walk-throughs, and 3D web scenes for communication and decision-making.
4. Develops and maintains accurate BIM models.

Support and Coordination:

1. Provides advanced technical support to planners, analysts, realtors, and engineers.
2. Leads GIS data analysis, integrating municipal and external data sources for informed urban planning.
3. Produces visualizations and graphics for diverse audiences, conducts site assessments, and mentors interns.

Research:

1. Conducts technical research, compiles best practices, and reviews software solutions to improve efficiency.
2. Prepares and presents data for staff, Council, and public audiences.

Administration:

1. Maintains municipal data, validates data quality, and integrates spatial information across projects. Leads initiatives to improve data management.
2. Collaborates on spatial data functions, supports public events, responds to inquiries, and completes GIS analysis to aid decision-making and policy development.
3. Updates and maintains official maps to reflect the most recent policy requirements.
4. Responds directly to inquiries from colleagues, Councilors, and the general public.
5. Completes spatial analysis and/or GIS application development projects in partnership with functional business units, supporting decision-making, public awareness, program implementation, and policy development.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Education & Experience:

1. Minimum five (5) years progressive experience working in a related multi-disciplinary environment.
2. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
3. Diploma in Planning Technology, Geomatics, or Civil Technology or related diploma from a recognized institution, considered an asset.
4. Extensive experience applying municipal planning regulations and guidelines (e.g. HRM Municipal Design Guidelines; Policy Regulations and Standards, Setbacks, Lot Coverage etc.).
5. Experience interpreting and working with Municipal Planning Strategies and Land Use By-Laws.
6. Experience with construction related field work, site survey and analysis techniques.
7. Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD (Civil 3D or equivalent), ArcGIS, Sketch-Up, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, ArcUrban.
8. Experience building 3D digital or physical models.

Technical/Job Specific Knowledge and Abilities:

1. Experience in creating and manipulating 3D Models.
2. Aptitude for 3D conceptualization and ability to transfer skills between 3D programs.
3. Highly proficient in drafting, spatial data analysis, research, and graphic communication.
4. Demonstrated experience and proven knowledge in mapping and spatial database development and/or application development, and user support, including practical experience working with GIS technology (ESRI suite of products preferred), preferably in a municipal environment.
5. Strong working knowledge of relational database management system software (ORACLE, SQL Server along with Microsoft Access), SQL (Structured Query Language) and Microsoft applications including M365 suite.
6. Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy.
7. Demonstrated initiative and independent problem-solving methods/capabilities.
8. Proven ability to successfully meet deadlines and manage several projects at once.
9. Strong interpersonal skills to ensure that project requirements are being fulfilled through ongoing communication and ability to maintain positive working relationships with others.
10. Ability to maintain composure and provide a high level of customer service while de-escalating stressful and emotionally charged situations (i.e. public meetings on controversial projects).
11. Experience creating and maintaining spatial information in map and database format, including experience in processing, and analyzing LiDAR data. Experience in architecture, master planning, and graphic design will be considered an asset.
12. Ability to develop functional and technical specification documents.

Security Clearance Requirements: Applicants may be required to complete an employment security screening check.

Please note: Testing may be conducted as a component of the selection process to assess technical and job-specific knowledge. Candidates, who are selected for testing, may be tested in a group setting, scheduled at the employer’s discretion.

COMPETENCIES: Valuing Diversity, Analytical Thinking, Communications, Customer Service, Developing Others, Organizing & Planning, Teamwork & Cooperation, Conflict Management, Visioning, Strategic Thinking & Innovation.

WORK STATUS: Permanent, Full-time

HOURS OF WORK: Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, 35 hours per week

WORK LOCATION: 3rd Floor of Duke Tower (5251 Duke Street, Halifax NS)

CLOSING DATE: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 pm on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

This is a bargaining unit position. External applicants will only be considered if there are no qualified bargaining unit candidates.

Please note: We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. Only those applicants selected for an interview/testing will be contacted. During the recruitment process, applicants have the right to request an accommodation. Applicants invited to participate in an assessment process (such as interview or testing) and who require an accommodation, should discuss their needs with the recruiter when invited to the assessment process.