Senior GIS Specialist - Missoula - Missoula County, MT

Description

Salary: $ $29.75 Hourly
Location : Missoula, MT
Job Type: Regular Full-time, 40 hours/week
Job Number:
Department: Technology
Opening Date: 01/15/2026
Bargaining Unit: MFPE-Federation of MIssoula County Employees
Work Site: Missoula County
Scheduling/Hours of Work: Full-time
Definition
This is a full-time opportunity with many benefits As a Missoula County employee, you will be part of a team that is committed to positively impacting the community. The pay range for this position is $ $ per hour, DOE.
The Missoula County Technology Department is seeking a SENIOR GIS SPECIALIST to join their team. This position provides expertise and leadership in the development, maintenance and utilization of geographic information systems for the Technology Department, GIS Division. Performs technical work: in the collection of data; in the development of complex databases; in the analysis of data; and in the graphic representation of data.
Details: Priority screening will begin on Thursday, January 29, 2026It is in your best interest to apply by this date. Applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established, or the position has been filled.
To Apply:

• Please include with a complete application the following attachments: A letter of interest, a resume, and any relevant certifications.
• Complete job description available upon request to the Department of Human Resources.

Representative Examples of Work
Collects geospatial data from electronic and cartographic sources; through field collections; and by research of other data sources. Contacts outside sources or visits sites in the field to gather and confirm information. Develops, updates and maintains complex databases using specialized geographic information software. Integrates data to create multi-level, geographic information data files. Consults with department staff, public officials and the public to identify geospatial data needs. Evaluates data to ensure validity, reliability and appropriateness. Performs complex analyses of data specific to project demands or requests from staff, public officials or the public. Creates and documents methodologies that can be repeated to verify results of analyses. Develops graphic representations of geospatial data. Produces maps, charts and other graphic information displays. Develops written reports of data. Responds to requests for data and maps from staff, public officials, outside agencies and the public. Maintains and updates a variety of map resources and online map services. Develops new map services. May participate in website development and maintenance to make cartographic and GIS resources available to the public. Attends meetings and makes public presentations to represents the department as an expert and to explain and defend data. Leads or supports work teams to participate in project planning; to identify, provide and analyze data; and to provide graphic representation of data. Answers questions for department staff, public officials and the public, related to needs for and use of geospatial information and maps. Provides training for staff and provides individual support on software and other technologies. May provide education to the public and train volunteers on use of GPS equipment and other GIS data issues. Remains current in latest cartographic and GIS related technologies. Research new technologies and makes recommendations to the department for software acquisition and implementation and advancement in the fields of GIS and cartography.
Minimum Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor's degree in a field developing skills in data research and analytical abilities. Degrees best suited to this job are Geography, Cartography, Environmental Studies, Computer Science or GIS.
• Requires three years of experience in researching, analyzing and creating graphic representations of geospatial data. Experience must include working with Geographic Information Systems and creating maps.

Physical/Environmental Demands
Works primarily in an office setting seated at a computer workstation. Involves attending meetings, locally and out of town. Occasionally travels to remote sites requiring some physical exertion to walk over rough, uneven surfaces. Occasionally uses sharp cutting tools.
Located halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks and home to the University of Montana, Missoula is an academic center situated in an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Depending on the season, you can hike, ski, fish, float rivers, ride mountain bikes, or just sit back and marvel at the surrounding scenery. Join us in a scenic, sophisticated, and service-oriented Missoula
Missoula County covers over 2,618 square miles of mountain lands varying in topography and climate from temperate river valleys to snow-capped peaks. Five large valleys and two major rivers wind through this mountainous region.
Missoula County is large and diverse, featuring everything from the spectacular scenery of Clark Fork River running through town to lush ranches and a growing economy of small business. Skiers, outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, mothers and fathers, business owners, vacationers, fisherman, retirees, students, and many others have grown to love Missoula County's boundless opportunities.
This summary outlines the benefit programs; actual benefits may vary depending on bargaining unit and employment status.
Missoula County will reward your contributions to our community with competitive compensation and generous benefits, including but not limited to:
Excellent Medical Health Benefits - Group health benefits, including dental and vision coverage, are available to eligible County employees. The medical health benefits premium is covered for full-time employees. The County contribution is pro-rated on hours paid for part-time employees. The employee pays the premium portion for dependent coverage. Family health benefits coverage is $258.00 per pay period.
Medical deductible is $500 for an individual and $1,000 for a family.
Flexible Benefits Plan - Pre-tax out-of-pocket medical expenses and day care expenses.
Voluntary Life Insurance Coverage, Long and Short-Term Disability, Critical and Accident Insurance are offered through Mutual ofOmaha.
Public Employees Retirement System - Montana public employees of the state, university system, local governments and certain employees of school districts are covered by the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New members to the PERS have an opportunity to choose between two retirement plan options: the Defined Benefit Plan or the Defined Contribution Plan.
Sheriffs' Retirement System (SRS) - A public pension plan for all Montana Sheriffs hired after July 1, 1974 and Detention Officers hired after July 1, 2005.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Working for Missoula County may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness. Look to learn more and understand whether you may be eligible.
Supplemental Retirement Benefits are offered through Valic or Nationwide.
Sick Leave - Full-time employees accrue 7.38 hours per month and are eligible to use sick leave once you have been an employee for 90 days. The accrual is pro-rated for part-time employees.
Vacation Leave - Full-time employees accrue 9.24 hours per month and are eligible to use leave after continuous employment for a period of 6 full months. The accrual is pro-rated for part-time employees.
Holidays - The County observes eleven legal holidays in even numbered years and ten legal holidays in odd numbered years.
Paid Parental Leave (PPL)- In recognition of the importance of bonding and care of a newborn child or a child placed for adoption, Missoula County 6 continuous weeks of PPL to eligible full-time employees that have been with the county for 180 days. The hours are pro-rated for part-time employees.