Operations Spatial Data Assistant (Contract)

Position Overview
The Operations Spatial Data Assistant provides day-to-day support for the development and maintenance of spatial datasets used in service delivery across Public Works. This role focuses on preparing GIS data and maps that support work planning, routing, and contractor oversight within the City’s Microsoft Dynamics 365 Field Service platform and other related operational systems.

Working from established data structures, the position is responsible for producing and updating polygon zones, point-based assets, and field-ready map products. The primary goal is to make existing infrastructure and asset information more usable in the field by transforming raw data into practical, accurate, and accessible maps for internal teams and third-party vendors.
Responsibilities
• Prepare and update GIS layers (points, polygons, line segments) representing infrastructure assets and service areas.
• Maintain and organize spatial data used to drive work order routing, asset grouping, and operational zone mapping.
• Produce and publish maps using ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Pro for use by internal staff and external contractors.
• Assist in configuring asset hierarchies and schemas that reflect operational needs such as seasonal work and maintenance cycles.
• Support field validation activities by updating data based on staff input and observations.
• Monitor data accuracy and perform routine quality checks on field inputs and source records.
• Follow established data standards and templates to ensure consistency and integration across platforms.
• Translate asset inventories, field notes, and engineering drawings into usable GIS formats.

Other Duties

• Performs other related tasks and projects as assigned, which are in accordance with job responsibilities or necessary department and corporate objectives.
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations and the Corporate Health and Safety policy & related procedures.
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and related policy and procedure.
Qualifications and Experience
• Completion of a one‑year Ontario College Graduate Certificate or equivalent in GIS, Geomatics, Geography, Environmental Studies, Urban Planning, or a suitable equivalent.
• Minimum of one (1) year of related work experience supporting GIS data preparation, map production, or field mapping. Practical experience preparing spatial data for field use and operational planning.
• Demonstrated training or experience in Esri GIS software (ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online) through formal study, professional use, or equivalent hands-on application.
• Completion of a two-year Ontario College Diploma or a Bachelor’s degree in GIS, Geomatics, Geography, Environmental Studies, Urban Planning, or a related technical discipline.
• Professional experience applying GIS solutions in a municipal, environmental, or infrastructure context.
• Advanced proficiency with geospatial technologies such as ArcGIS Enterprise, Python scripting for GIS, and web mapping applications.
• Exposure to public works, infrastructure, asset management, or work order systems is preferred.
• Exposure to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Field Service or similar work order platforms is an asset.
• Basic knowledge of municipal infrastructure and public works operations.
• Effective organizational skills coupled with the ability to multitask.
• Effective report writing skills, particularly in developing and marketing a case for change.
• Organized and detail-focused with strong data accuracy skills.
• Ability to follow defined workflows and produce consistent outputs using GIS templates.
• Basic understanding of GIS principles, spatial data formats (points, polygons), and geodatabase structures.
• Proficiency using Esri tools including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and Field Maps to prepare and publish spatial data.
• Ability to interpret existing asset data and convert it into practical, field-ready maps for operational use.
• Familiarity with field data collection tools (GPS, mobile apps) and data validation processes.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to follow standardized mapping workflows.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with supervisors, field teams, and analysts.
• Willingness to support routine mapping tasks while contributing to continuous improvement in data accuracy and field usability.
• Knowledge of, and demonstrated ability in, the city’s core competencies and relevant functional competencies.
• Availability to work outside normal business hours, as required.
• Valid Ontario Class ‘G’ driver’s license, in good standing, with access to a reliable vehicle for business purposes when required.

Working Conditions:

• Standard office environment with prolonged periods of computer-based work using GIS software and related tools.
• Regular interaction with staff across multiple departments, including asset management, planning, public works and IT to coordinate GIS data.
• Occasional fieldwork to support asset verification, ground-truthing, and spatial data validation. Field activities may include:
o Walking or standing for extended periods on uneven, unpaved or sloped terrain.
o Navigating construction zones, roadways or active municipal work sites.
o Carrying lightweight field equipment such as GPS units, tablets or data collection tools.
o Exposure to outdoor weather conditions.
o Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety boots, high-visibility vests, and hard hats is provided.