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Senior Gis Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$141 - $159/hr

... GIS Manager. Compensation This is a full‑time, exempt, benefit‑eligible position. The ... Senior Scientist position is $141,000-$159,000, commensurate with knowledge, abilities, and ...

Associate Planner

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

... path to senior leadership and firm ownership-making this an exceptional opportunity for ... Experience using GIS, including ArcGIS for analysis and exhibit preparation * Valid driver ...

Senior Gis information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$27.3K

$87.8K

$178.8K

How much do senior gis jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior gis in Santa Rosa, CA is $87,780.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $112,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior GIS?

Senior GIS (Geographic Information Systems) professionals are experienced specialists who manage, analyze, and interpret geographical data using GIS technology. They lead projects involving mapping, spatial analysis, and data visualization, often supervising teams and collaborating with other departments. Senior GIS professionals typically design workflows, ensure data accuracy, and provide strategic insights for decision-making in industries like urban planning, environmental science, and transportation. Their expertise is crucial for turning complex spatial data into actionable information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior GIS, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior GIS Specialist, you need advanced expertise in geographic information systems, spatial analysis, cartography, and a relevant degree in geography, GIS, or related fields. Proficiency with tools like ArcGIS, QGIS, and programming languages such as Python or SQL, as well as certifications like GISP, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set exceptional candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate spatial data analysis, effective project execution, and clear collaboration with stakeholders on complex geospatial projects.

What are some common challenges faced by senior GIS professionals when managing large spatial datasets, and how can they be addressed?

Senior GIS professionals often encounter challenges with data quality, integration, and scalability when handling large spatial datasets. Ensuring data accuracy and consistency across different sources is critical, as is implementing efficient data management practices to avoid performance bottlenecks. Collaboration with IT teams and data owners can help streamline data workflows, while staying updated on the latest GIS software and cloud solutions can improve processing capabilities. Regularly documenting data standards and establishing clear protocols for data sharing within the team are also essential for effective management.

What is the difference between Senior Gis vs GIS Technician?

AspectSenior GISGIS Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in GIS, Geography, or related field; experience; possibly GIS certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's degree; entry-level certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and managing GIS data; overseeing projectsData entry, map creation, basic GIS analysis
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental firms, utilitiesMunicipalities, engineering firms, GIS service providers

Senior GIS professionals typically have more experience, advanced skills, and responsibilities in managing GIS projects, while GIS Technicians focus on data collection, map creation, and supporting GIS operations. The senior role involves oversight and analysis, whereas the technician role is more hands-on and entry-level.

What are the most commonly searched types of Gis jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Gis jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Gis jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Gis jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Senior Gis jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Senior Gis job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Gis job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,780 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

$141 - $159/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Sonoma Land Trust seeks a rigorous conservation scientist with strong communication skills to oversee applied research projects, furthering the organization’s commitment to scientifically informed conservation.

The newly established Senior Scientist position builds on Sonoma Land Trust’s five-decade record of conservation innovation and excellence by leveraging the latest science to inform its conservation strategy development, planning, preserve management, educational programs, decision making, and advocacy. This position will oversee the Land Trust’s applied field research and scientific data collections, and will work collaboratively across the organization to identify opportunities to implement landscape scale conservation. In addition to technical expertise and an expansive understanding of the role of conservation in tackling climate, biodiversity, and environmental justice challenges, the Senior Scientist must demonstrate a strong commitment to partnership and forging effective collaborations with peers in the conservation and academic communities. The Senior Scientist is an integral member of the Conservation Program’s team and supports the leadership team in advising conservation research strategy. They will report to the Director of Conservation and will be responsible for supervising the Land Trust’s GIS Manager.

Compensation

This is a full‑time, exempt, benefit‑eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range for the Senior Scientist position is $141,000–$159,000, commensurate with knowledge, abilities, and experience. Relocation support is available.

Sonoma Land Trust’s benefits include:

  • Paid time off including paid vacation based on tenure, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick and family leave
  • 100% of employee premiums for medical, dental, and vision, and 75% of dependent premiums
  • 5% employer contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment
  • Employee life and disability insurance
  • Pre‑tax dependent care coverage plans for dependent or elder care
  • An employee assistance program for mental health, coaching, and financial or legal consultation services
  • A lifestyle account annual stipend for wellness or gear purchases
Location

This position is located at the Sonoma Land Trust office in Santa Rosa, California. Staff are working in a hybrid model. Some field work is required.

Start Date

Fall 2026

To Apply

Select “Apply Here.” Please include a CV or resume and a cover letter describing your research experience, qualifications, and skills that match the position criteria, and what you will bring to the role.

Interested and qualified candidates should apply by July 10, 2026 for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.

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