GRAPHICS/GIS TECHNICIAN I
GRAPHICS/GIS TECHNICIAN II

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under supervision (Graphics/GIS Technician I) or general supervision (Graphics/GIS Technician II), applies graphic art, computer, and drafting skills to a variety of projects that involve freehand drawing, computer graphics, and general technical design work; produces and updates maps; assists in the preparation of miscellaneous graphics, brochures, reports, ads, and maps for all departments within the City; compiles, stores and analyzes a variety of data; and edits, creates, and maintains graphic and tabular data.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Graphics/GIS Technician I: This is the entry level class in the Graphics/GIS Technician series. Positions at this level are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to the Graphics/GIS Technician II level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Advancement to the “II” level is based on demonstrated proficiency in performing the assigned functions and is at the discretion of higher level supervisory or management staff.

Graphics/GIS Technician II: This is the full journey level class in the Graphics/GIS Technician series performing the full range of duties with only occasional instruction or assistance. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Graphics/GIS Technician I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, applying well developed graphics and GIS knowledge, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Work is normally reviewed only on completion and for overall results. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and positions at the Graphics/GIS Technician II level are normally filled by advancement from the Graphics/GIS Technician I level.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties form those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Applies a variety of graphic art, computer and drafting skills to a variety of projects that involve freehand drawing, computer graphics and general technical design work; utilizes automated mapping and graphic software (including ArcView) to produce a wide range of computerized maps and reports; operates a variety of equipment including digital cameras, copiers, scanners, computers and printers.
• Creates maps, brochures, logos, posters, business cards, letterheads, banners, signs and miscellaneous artwork using graphics software, for all City departments; updates artwork as necessary.
• Prepares computer-generated graphs, maps, charts, and other graphics required for Planning Department staff reports.
• Assists in updating City base maps and land use maps including the official City Zoning, General Plan, and Case History.
• Provides support for Planning staff in preparing maps and graphics for all Planning Commissions and City Council hearings as well as meeting setup; prepares maps and graphics required for public legal notices.
• Runs large Xerox copies and plots for the public and City staff; maintains graphics equipment.
• Performs research and analysis of geographic and tabular data from public or private sources of conversion and input to the GIS and other electronic graphics systems; provides updated information to external agencies as necessary.
• Edits, creates and maintains geographic and tabular data using scanners and plotters; edits computer output for accuracy and makes necessary corrections and revision.
• Creates designs and layouts for multi page programs, trifolds, brochures, booklets and information guidelines.
• Creates designs and layouts for promotional material and single paged items including advertisements, job announcements, flyers, postcards, coupons, invitations, certificates, proclamations, resolutions, cards, calendars, manual and book cover layouts and forms.
• Creates a variety of designs and layouts for the web including making icons, boarders, buttons and graphics.
• Creates camera ready artwork and electronic files for external Print Shop specifications; translates, converts and exports different file formats; burns zips or compact disks as necessary.
• Stays abreast of new and emerging trends and changing technologies in the fields of graphic art and geographic information systems; reads pertinent industry publications; attends meetings and training as required.
• Performs related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of:

• Principals, techniques and experience using the latest equipment in drafting and composing maps, graphics and text.
• Methods and techniques of developing maps.
• Computer programs and equipment used to produce transparencies, color layouts, camera-ready artwork and large format printers.
• Print resolution.
• Vector and raster images.
• Advanced techniques used in graphic art and computer graphics.
• Advanced methods, practices, techniques and instruments used in drafting and computerized mapping.
• Computer systems, the process to transfer files and the preparation/setup of artwork on disks for outside printer companies to utilize.
• Database systems maintenance.
• Geographic Information Systems (G.I.S.) applications and software.
• Color schemes, and processes and palettes.
• Methods and techniques of assembling and compiling data.
• Principles and practices of customer service.

Ability to:

• Letter neatly and clearly by freehand and mechanical means.
• Create freehand and computer generated illustrations.
• Create and maintain geographic and tabular data using scanners and plotters.
• Compile and analyze geographic information systems data.
• Read, understand and interpret technical planning maps.
• Input research and analysis data into the Geographic Information System (GIS).
• Develop and update Geographic Information System (GIS) databases and applications.
• Organize and prioritize workload.
• Prepare assigned work using computer graphic skills.
• Learn new computer applications and apply to work assignments.
• Prepare clear and accurate maps and graphics rapidly on short notice.
• Demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience Guidelines - Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Graphics/GIS Technician I/II

Education/Training: Equivalent to an Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Art, Architecture, Graphic Design, or related field.

Graphics/GIS Technician I

Experience: Two years of increasingly responsible experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and computer graphic applications. A Bachelor’s degree in a field listed above may substitute for experience.

Graphics/GIS Technician II

Experience: Two years of increasingly responsible experience performing duties comparable to a Graphics/GIS Technician I with the City of Escondido.

License or Certificate - Possessions of a valid California Class C Driver’s License or ability to arrange transportation for field work when necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Environment: Standard office setting. CONTINUOUS working indoors, dust from paperwork. Work schedule is 9/80 with alternating Fridays off in a biweekly period. Work environment is both formal and informal, team oriented, having variable tasks, pace and pressure. Work is performed indoors in office and in meeting rooms..

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to work in an office setting and operate office equipment. CONTINUOUS sitting, upward and downward flexion of neck; fine finger dexterity and light to moderate finger pressure to manipulate keyboard, equipment controls and other office equipment; pinch grasp to manipulate writing utensils. FREQUENT side-to-side turning of neck, walking, standing, bending and stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting at waist, moderate wrist torque to twist equipment knobs and dials; lifting objects weighing up to 20 lbs. from below waist to above shoulders and transporting distances up to 50 yards. OCCASIONAL squatting, kneeling, reach above and at shoulder height, moderate grasp to manipulate reference books and manuals; lifting objects weighing 20-3 5 lbs. from below waist to above shoulders and transporting distances up to 50 feet..

Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents and to operate equipment..

Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.

Date: November 2001
Johnson & Associates