About UMass Amherst
UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.
Job Summary
Under the general direction of the Assistant Director of Space and Asset Management, Surveyor and GIS Administrator is responsible for maintaining the integrity of all site, utility, and topographical data for the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus and associated outlying facilities and properties. In addition to system integrity, the position will manage and update all existing drawings, maps, and plans, integrating this data into the University’s tools for graphical information. This role will also require regular evaluation of emerging GIS technologies and their potential to enhance campus operations.
Essential Functions
- Manage multi-level and linked databases and CAD systems for campus wide spatial information. Provide spatial information for numerous application and users. Responsible for generating and linking campus site GIS databases to CAD files for seamless two-directional (CAD to GIS; GIS to CAD) operation. Develop quality control measures to ensure data accuracy and consistency across all platforms.
- Coordinates GIS activities between Campus Planning, Administration & Finance IT (AFIT), Physical Plant and other University Divisions that are developing data for facilities management.
- In coordination with the GIS/IT Manager helps design, develop and implement data gathering tools and applications to assist staff in developing the data and information they need for day-to-day operations. Will also provide training to staff for these applications to ensure their proper use and productivity. Continuously assess and improve the usability of tools and applications based on user feedback.
- Serve as primary point of contact for managing and establishing right of ways, easements and related efforts. Work with the Office of the General Council, Campus Planning, the Administration and consultants to provide data, deed information and graphics associated with the management of State property. Update property mapping information as required. Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards for property management data.
- Serve as primary point of contact for all Dig Safe related activities.
- Manage and coordinate Surveyor Service Contracts in support of university projects including development of proposals; preparation of documentation; coordination and evaluation of the Survey firm’s performance; and approval of invoices and change orders.
- Collaborate with AFIT GIS Team to design and implement project methodology for assigned projects, identify needs, develop solutions, and acquire GIS products and services. This includes drafting contract language for use in projects to ensure deliverables integrate seamlessly with campus resources and existing systems.
- Research and field work include the following: data collection, photogrammetry and 3D analysis, data conversion and analysis; database design and management; GIS application development, and map creation and proper documentation and dissemination of this information.
- Maintain proficiency in computer assisted design software applications and various other computer applications typically used by professional engineering organizations.
- Manage and coordinate Surveyor Service Contracts in support of university projects including development of proposals; preparation of documentation; coordination and evaluation of the Survey firm’s performance; and approval of invoices and change orders.
- Capture new and existing utility data at ongoing construction sites by surveying with drones and documenting newly installed or exposed existing underground utilities prior to backfill by the contractor. Process and incorporate this data into the campus database. Ensure that data collected is validated and meets integration standards.
- Consult with and provide technical support to engineers, architects, planners and University personnel in project planning, site development, and master planning activities. Provide GIS based solutions and visualizations to support strategic decision-making processes.
- Collaborate with the AFIT GIS Team on the creation and implementation of strategic directions and policies for GIS that support long-term sustainability and scalability.
- Pilot Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or oversee student pilots collecting and processing UAS imagery for construction monitoring and base mapping updates. Establish standard operating procedures for UAS operations and data handling to ensure consistency and compliance.
Other Functions
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Bachelor’s degree in geographic information systems or related field with eight (8) years of experience working with GIS Technology. Four years of experience may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree for a total of twelve (12) years of progressive experience working with GIS technology.
- Working knowledge of surveying including applicable codes and regulations.
- Demonstrated competency in the most current release of AutoCAD, Autodesk Map and AutoCAD Civil 3D.
- Demonstrated competency with the latest GIS technologies, specifically the most current version of ESRI’s ArcGIS ArcPro, Enterprise/Portal and ArcGIS online.
- Demonstrated excellence in oral, written, and graphic communications.
- Competency with the use of GNSS technology (Global Positioning Systems) and data corrections including field collection.
- Ability to access any portion of a construction/facility site in all conditions.
- Working knowledge of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), a Federal Aviation Administration Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) required or the ability to obtain within one year.
- Knowledge and experience in UAS maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Experience with ArcGIS Drone2Map or equivalent in generating 2D and 3D products from UAS imagery.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
Typical office environment.
Work Schedule
- Monday - Friday 1st Shift.
- This position has the opportunity for a hybrid work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where an employee’s work is regularly performed at a location other than the campus workspace for a portion of the week. As this position falls within the Professional Staff Union, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the Professional Staff Union collective bargaining agreement.
Salary Information
Level 28
PSU Hiring Ranges
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, please submit a resume, and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.
UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, caste, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, political belief or affiliation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related condition(s), veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, natural and protective hairstyle and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.