Part Time Gis Technical Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $31.98 - $44.25 Hourly
Location : San Marcos, CA
Job Type: Part Time
Job Number: 2026 - 54
Department: Development Services
Opening Date: 08/18/2026
Closing Date: 9/1/2026 4:00 PM Pacific
FLSA: Non-Exempt
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION
Ready to discover where your talents can take you next? Discover just how bright your future can be in San Marcos! The City of San Marcos is looking for a top notch Part-Time Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician, who knows how to be part of the fun department! We're looking for a leader with big ideas, who will continue raising the bar. This is a chance to join an exceptional agency at an extraordinary time!
San Marcos, California is distinct for our:

• Entrepreneurial approach of a real estate portfolio that earns $10M annually
• Growth rate of median household incomes outpacing the region
• Multiple higher education institutions

Summary Description
Under direction, the Part-Time GIS Technician generates and maintains a vast range of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) map layers and documentation while providing day-to-day GIS support to customers. They provide high-quality results based on geographic data from a variety of sources.
They are responsible for creating, manipulating, and analyzing geographic data; producing cartographic mapping products; and assisting staff in the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and GIS-related applications. Responsibilities also include maintaining existing GIS databases, creating, acquiring, and converting new data, and assisting with the implementation and/or administration of GIS and GIS-related applications.
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

• Participate in projects related to GIS operations, which may include interpreting and completing data and mapping requests, data analysis, documentation development, map development, map template design, graphics, online map services, and performing other related tasks.
• Design and develop subject matter data models that include GIS layers, tables, domains, and relationships and develop supporting documentation.
• Develop and deploy custom map services and web mapping applications leveraging existing and derived data for staff divisions and public.
• Integrate subject matter data into Portal for ArcGIS, ArcGIS Online and the Spatial Database Engine (SDE).
• Collect, verify, and catalog source documents for the creation, maintenance, and analysis of GIS layers.
• Draft special as-needed project exhibits for various City departments and divisions.
• Collaborate with a variety of customer departments to gather and maintain GIS data for their usage.
• Perform quality control, quality assurance (QCQA) on GIS data in collaboration with division data validators.
• Assist employees with training and the resolution of issues regarding the usage of GIS software and third-party GIS-integrated applications.
• Ensure the accuracy, quality, and completeness of GIS maps and graphics prepared by City and GIS Staff.
• Ensure the integrity, quality, and accurate content and structure of the database including Geo-referenced imagery, metadata, and attribute data.
• Participate in GPS field collection projects, including training, documentation, application development, data processing and testing.
• Interpret complex information from applications to GIS files, i.e. survey drawings, site development plans, subdivision plans.
• Electronically manipulate various data files by converting, importing, exporting, creating, recalling, editing, or updating data.
• Manipulate and analyze geographic data; create and maintain metadata.
• Maintain and quality control GIS data layers, which includes the update of current data layers and tables, and building new layers based on user needs and organizational growth.
• Provide technical support to system users, including instructing employees on system use and use of related applications and equipment.
• Assist in creating, maintaining, and quality controls of GIS procedures.
• Operate and maintain a variety of GIS equipment, including plotters, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, and other related equipment.
• Test software/applications; prepares user documentation, which includes user guides and training materials.
• Assist with problem and/or process identification; recommend improvements.
• Take corrective action to resolve problems.
• Assist with application development and database development efforts.
• Task Emergency Operations Center during an event that requires GIS cooperation and support.
• Coordinate with other municipalities and agencies for data needs.
• Assist with problem and/or process identification, definition, and solution development.
• Analyze application issues; take corrective action to resolve problems.
• Assist with the development and implementation of standards, procedures, and industry best practices.
• Develop conceptual data models and data capture/conversion plans.
• Perform other duties and as-needed tasks of a similar nature or level.

QUALIFICATIONS
The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time to successfully perform the assigned duties.
Knowledge of: Principles of computer system operations and peripheral components including GIS software (ArcGIS Pro; ArcGIS Online; Portal for ArcGIS); theory and design principles of GIS; integration of GPS hardware and data collection applications; principles of geographic concepts; techniques and practices in GIS concepts; GIS ethics; data collection techniques, methodology, and procedures; standard office practices and procedures; modern communication devices and components including current trends and development in the field of GIS; occupational hazards and standard safety practices necessary in the area of GIS; Raster imagery database management principles; Analytical methods and techniques; technical report writing practices and procedures; principles of business letter writing and report preparation; principles and procedures of recordkeeping; modern office practices, methods, computer equipment, and computer applications related to the work; English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation; and techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
Ability to: Perform a variety of functions in the operation and maintenance of computer systems hardware and related software applications; utilize current release of ESRI ArcGIS software suite; design and implement new or revised systems and procedures for the automation of information processing; collect, analyze, and interpret procedures and data; develop sound conclusions, recommendations, and solutions; perform spatial analysis; read, interpret, and apply information from complex technical publications, manuals, and other documents; produce cartographic materials; manage databases; operate GPS equipment; create, edit and update data and maps; gather, compile, and process data; evaluate new technology and serve in a technical capacity to supervisors and managers; organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines; operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications; understand and follow oral and written instructions; exercise good judgment, flexibility, creativity, and sensitivity in response to changing situations and needs; use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing; use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines; demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain knowledge and abilities would be:
Education/Training:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in GIS, Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
Experience:
One year of professional level GIS experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE:
Possession of an appropriate, valid driver's license with satisfactory driving record. ESRI certifications are highly desirable.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The conditions described herein are representative of those that must be met by an incumbent to successfully perform the essential functions of this classification. Reasonable accommodation 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 environment is both formal and informal, team oriented, having variable tasks, pace, and pressure. Office work is performed indoors in office and in meeting rooms. Field work is performed outdoors in a vehicle or other methods across varying terrain.
Physical:
Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to work in an office setting and operate office equipment. CONTINUOUS sitting and upward and downward flexion of neck; pinch grasp to manipulate writing utensils. FREQUENT side-to-side turning of neck, and fine finger dexterity; light to moderate finger pressure to manipulate keyboard, equipment controls, and office equipment, walking to other departments/offices/office equipment and around worksite; OCCASIONAL standing, squatting, bending, crouching, walking; twisting at waist; reaching; moderate grasp to manipulate reference books and manuals; liftingweighing up to 20 lbs. from below waist to above shoulders and transporting distances up to 50 yards.
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.
This is a part time non-benefited position, however effective 07/01/2015 part time employees will receive 1 hour of sick leave accrual per 30 hours worked. Employees in this category are eligible to use up to 27 hours per year and are able to carry over up to 54 sick leave hours per year.
01
Briefly describe your experience using ESRI ArcGIS products, including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Field Maps, or similar applications.
02
Describe your experience collecting, maintaining, editing, or analyzing GIS data, including any field data collection/GPS experience.
03
Describe any experience reading or interpreting plans, drawings, or as-builts.
04
Describe any experience with other GIS-related tools or systems.
05
Describe any experience supporting GIS users or working with multiple departments/customers.
Required Question