GIS & Space Data Specialist

Florida Atlantic University is seeking a GIS & Spatial Data Specialist - Boca Raton, FL.

The GIS & Spatial Data Specialist reports directly to the Director of Space Utilization or designee and serves all University sites and campuses. This position is responsible for developing, maintaining, and updating detailed floor plans, building information systems and infrastructure maps to support university operations, space planning and optimization, and strategic development. This crucial role helps enhance the institution's efficiency, sustainability, and ability to effectively serve the University community.

ESSENTIAL:

Reporting directly to the Director of Space Utilization and Analysis or designee, the GIS & Space Data Specialist serves as the technical lead for the University's geospatial, space inventory, and facilities-related data environment. Responsible for the development, maintenance, integration, and application of GIS and spatial data that support space utilization, facilities operations, infrastructure management, wayfinding, and institutional planning initiatives. The Specialist bridges technical spatial data management with operational and planning needs, ensuring that accurate, standardized, and accessible geospatial information is available to support space governance, facilities coordination, and decision-making across the University.

This role is designated as essential personnel.

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Spatial Data Management:

• Develop, maintain, and expand the University's GIS environment supporting facilities, space inventory, infrastructure, and grounds.

• Manage geospatial datasets related to buildings, floor plans, utilities, landscapes, and other physical assets.

• Ensure spatial data accuracy, consistency, and interoperability across GIS, space inventory systems, CAFM/CMMS platforms, and other institutional systems.

• Support technology planning related to GIS and spatial data solutions, including system enhancements and integrations.

• Space Inventory & Facilities Data Integration:

• Support the institutional space inventory through the integration of GIS, floor plan, and facilities and infrastructure data.

• Coordinate spatial data updates related to room attributes, classifications, and departmental assignments.

• Support space utilization analysis and reporting by ensuring reliable and accurate spatial data inputs.

• Spatial Analysis, Visualization & Automation:

• Utilize GIS applications to perform spatial analysis, geoprocessing, and data transformations in support of facilities operations, space planning, and institutional analysis.

• Produce maps, narratives, dashboards, and digital visualization products to support space use, infrastructure planning, wayfinding, and campus decision-making.

• Develop and maintain automated workflows and scripts (e.g., Python, SQL, ArcPy) to improve data processing efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability.

• Mobile Data Collection & Field Integration:

• Configure and manage GPS devices and mobile data collection tools to support field surveys and site-based data capture.

• Coordinate spatial data collection efforts related to facilities, infrastructure, and space inventory updates.

• Data Standards, Governance & Documentation:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of data standards, policies, and guidelines for GIS, space inventory, and facilities-related datasets.

• Maintain project documentation, metadata, and technical records in accordance with institutional data governance practices.

• Collaboration & Technical Support:

• Work collaboratively with design and construction, facilities operations and maintenance, and space utilization staff, planning efforts, information systems, and other relevant University stakeholders to integrate spatial data into operational and planning work and processes.

• Provide technical guidance to stakeholders on the interpretation and appropriate use of GIS and spatial data products.

• Support signage, wayfinding, and campus navigation initiatives through spatial data development and mapping support.

• Supervision:

• Provide technical direction and oversight to technical paraprofessional staff supporting GIS, facilities documentation, and spatial data preparation.

• Other job-related duties as assigned.

FAU Benefits and Perks

If Benefits & Perks are important to you, then FAU is the place to be! Working at FAU has its perks! In addition to helping drive change and having a positive impact by supporting our students, staff, and faculty, FAU offers

• Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, Urban Planning, Computer Science, Facilities Management, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in GIS, spatial data management, or facilities-related geospatial applications.

• Demonstrated experience with GIS platforms (e.g., Esri ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online/Enterprise).

• Experience managing or integrating space inventory, facilities, or infrastructure datasets in a complex organizational environment.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

• Ability to communicate technical geospatial concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in higher education facilities management or an understanding of campus operations and infrastructure requirements.

• Experience integrating GIS with BIM, CAFM, CMMS, or space management platforms.

• Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar tools for floor plan and facilities data integration.

• Experience with scripting or automation tools (Python, SQL, ArcPy).

• Experience developing web-based mapping applications or spatial dashboards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to conduct site visits and field surveys across campus, including outdoor environments and building interiors.

• Ability to carry field equipment weighing up to 25 pounds occasionally.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively and oversee ad-hoc teams.

• Strong attention to data accuracy, standards, and documentation.

• Ability to manage multiple technical projects and prioritize assignments

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

WORK AUTHORIZATION:

This position does not offer any employment-based immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Unrestricted work authorization required at all times.

• Excellent benefit packages including Medical (PPO/HMO $50 per month single & $180 per month family), Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending plans, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and much more.

• State retirement options including tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans.

• State employees Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) (https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service) program.

• Sick Leave Pool Program.

• Paid time off (eligible employees) including vacation and sick leave, 1 personal day, 9 paid holidays, and paid winter break (at President's discretion).

• Paid Community Engagement Volunteer Service Day (https://www.fau.edu/hr/documents/community-engagement-volunteer-leave4-2015.pdf)

Florida Atlantic University is where your future begins. With over 30,000 students from all 50 states and over 180 countries, 21 intercollegiate teams, 180 plus degree programs, and an administration that thrives on discovery and excellence, Florida Atlantic University is pushing the boundaries of higher education. At FAU, the faculty and staff are trailblazers and innovators with a passion for finding creative solutions while advancing science, art and technology in all disciplines. Student success, excellence and community engagement are some of our highest values as a university. These values are prominent throughout FAU's community and are essential to the employee experience. FAU is committed to the principles of engaged teaching, research and service, and reflects this commitment as a key Platform in its 2015 - 2025 Strategic Plan. Our work environment is a hub of cultures from across the nation and the world, making FAU a place where collaboration flourishes. All persons aspiring to achieve excellence in the practice of these principles are encouraged to apply.