GIS Specialist 2

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience):

This position requires a strong working knowledge of fisheries biology and data management. Candidates must have the ability to interpret and manage biological datasets including species distribution abundance and habitat data. Candidates must have experience with relational database management systems including techniques for accessing analyzing and managing data across multiple systems as well as data conversion methods. Proficiency in SQL Python and APIs for data automation and analysis is required. Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online including geodatabase design geoprocessing tools and cartographic design principles. Experience conducting spatial analyses such as overlays buffering filtering surface analysis and spatial statistics. Ability to support the development and maintenance of GIS-based applications and tools. Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex GIS and data concepts to non-technical audiences. Experience preparing technical documentation metadata and user guides. Ability to work independently on complex tasks while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners. Thorough working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (including Outlook Excel and Word) Windows operating systems and standard office procedures.

Education/Experience

The knowledge skills and abilities required to perform the duties of this position are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelors degree in fisheries biology and/or management natural resources geographic information systems information management or a related field and a minimum of 3 years of job-related work experience. Other combinations of education and experience which could provide such knowledge skills and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.

THE OUTSIDE IS IN US ALL.

Announcement:

Please remember to attach the required documents listed in this announcement.

• Resume

• Cover Letter

• References

Applications missing the requested documents will be considered incomplete and may not progress further in the process. Documents not requested will not be considered in the recruitment process. The State Application is not a substitute for a Resume. This position closes at 11:59 PM Mountain Time on February 22 2026. You must apply through the State of Montana Career site.

Special Information:

This position may be eligible for a statutory base pay increase of $1.00 an hour effective July 1 2026.

Identity of applicants who become finalists may be releases to the public if the Department deems it necessary. Employees who exceed 1040 hours in a calendar year are also provided health dental and life insurance. Other benefits include retirement paid vacation sick and holidays. This position may be covered by a VEBA (Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association).

A successful applicant will be subject to a background investigation.

Women and minorities are under-represented in this job category and are encouraged to apply.

This position is funded through a the event that the funding ends or is not sufficient to continue your employment your employment may be terminated without cause.

Telework

You must reside in Montana (or move to Montana) to accept this this position you will be afforded the opportunity to telework however there will be required weekly in-office day(s) in Helena. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state policy.

Specific Job Information:

Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks Geographic Data Services Bureau seeks a motivated solutions-oriented professional who thrives in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate is analytical detail-oriented creative and demonstrates strong communication teamwork and problem-solving skills.

The GIS and Natural Resource Analyst will manage multiple priorities independently while working with diverse teams on fisheries science aquatic resource data and GIS projects. The role requires a solid background in fisheries data management and GIS including experience with species distribution abundance and habitat datasets.

Applicants must have at least three years of experience managing fisheries data producing GIS products and developing GIS workflows. Required skills include hands-on use of geodatabases geospatial data services relational databases and proficiency in SQL ArcGIS Pro and Python.

To apply submit a detailed resume and cover letter specifically addressing your experience with fisheries-related tabular and spatial data. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will present a recent GIS project during the interview.

If you have strong experience in fisheries science GIS and using data to support resource management we encourage you to apply.

Job Duties:

The GIS & Natural Resource Data Analyst is responsible for managing fisheries-related spatial and tabular data ensuring accuracy consistency and compliance with standards. They design and implement GIS workflows and conduct spatial analyses such as overlays buffering filtering surface analysis and spatial statistics to support fisheries research and management efforts.

The analyst plays a key role in supporting the Bonneville Power Administration StreamNet program by ensuring the successful completion of its annual contract and Statement of Work (SOW). This includes meeting all deliverables timelines and quality standards.

A core part of the role involves producing high-quality digital and print map products as well as developing and maintaining GIS tools and templates for internal and external use. The analyst also collaborates with developers and technical staff to support the design and enhancement of web-based mapping applications and geospatial data services.

Data management is another key responsibility including the configuration maintenance and documentation of geodatabases and relational databases. The analyst supports data migration integration and conversion across platforms and ensures that all data is well-documented and accessible through comprehensive metadata and user guides.

This position requires frequent collaboration with biologists data managers and GIS professionals across divisions and partner agencies to coordinate data sharing and project planning. The analyst also provides technical support and training to staff serving as a liaison between technical teams and end users to ensure GIS products meet business needs and comply with agency and state standards.

There may be opportunities to participate in field surveys and data collection efforts which can involve physical exertion and working in adverse weather conditions. Additionally they are responsible for preparing reports presentations and visualizations to communicate project progress and outcomes to stakeholders and funding partners.