G.I.S. INTERN - Kenosha Water Utility

The Kenosha Water Utility (KWU) provides municipal water and wastewater services to nearly 110,000 people in the greater Kenosha metropolitan area, ideally located on Lake Michigan between Milwaukee and Chicago.  More information regarding KWU may be obtained at www.kenosha.org.  Any questions regarding this recruitment should be directed to the KWU Director of Personnel & Administration at shill@kenosha.org or 262-653-4308.

THIS RECRUITMENT IS DIRECTED TOWARDS COLLEGE STUDENTS PURSUING A 4-YEAR DEGREE IN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) OR RELATED MAJOR. Previous applicants/interns must re-apply online to be considered. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and this recruitment will close when this summer position is filled. Under the direction of the Director of IT/GIS or his designee, the GIS Intern will perform a variety of tasks, including the collection and analysis of GIS data throughout Kenosha and may prepare maps, reports, charts and databases which support KWU operations. The incumbent may also perform other skilled and unskilled tasks in support of municipal water and wastewater services. 

The typical work schedule is full-time Monday-Friday (1st shift) during the summer months and may extended beyond the summer; however it may be terminated at any time depending on the needs of KWU.  Work schedule may be reduced or modified due to inclement weather, equipment malfunction, or lack of work.  Wage rate will be based on student status and experience in this type of work.

This internship will NOT lead to an offer of permanent full-time employment and is limited to 1,500 hours or less within the designated 12-month period.The following duties may be assigned to this position, although other related tasks may be required.

• Collects information from field sites, including the utilization of global system positioning system (GPS) surveying/mapping.
• Analyzes, verifies and imports data from various sources using PostgreSQL/PostGIS, Python scripting.
• Writes and maintains scripts/tools for data manipulation within Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS).
• Creates scripts/apps that allow team members to view and modify database contents.
• Works with other team members to ensure data files are accurately built and loaded, and that project schedule deadlines are met.
• Operates GIS and standard office software, hardware and associated peripheral devices including CAD, GPS, plotters, scanners, etc.
• Assists with the preparation of maps, reports, charts, plans, specifications, and other documents by computer entry and retrieval.
• Reads and interprets maps and diagrams of municipal water and sewer facilities.
• Duplicates, assembles and collates materials.
• May need to respond to on-site inquiries from citizens regarding work being performed out in the field.
• Operates Class D vehicle to conduct field research or perform other work tasks.
• May perform seasonal Laborer duties such as grounds/building/vehicle maintenance tasks or other unskilled duties needed to support KWU operations.

Education/Training/Other Requirements:

• Currently enrolled as a student in good standing at an accredited college or university in pursuit of a Bachelor (4-year) degree with a major in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or other related field.
• Valid driver license with good driving record.
• If offered employment, must pass a driving record review, criminal background check and pre-employment drug screen.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the current principles, methods and technologies related to Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• Strong academic record in geography, GIS, Computer Science or other relevant field.
• Demonstrated knowledge and use of GIS software, preferably open-source such as Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS).
• Excellent problem solving, communication and organizational skills.
• Familiarity with QGIS.
• ?Familiarity with geospatial programming languages and interfaces (e.e., PostgreSQL/PostGIS, Python) preferred.
• Skill in operating a variety of office equipment including plotter, copiers, scanners, computer and peripheral equipment, and printers.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, charts and plans.
• Ability to research and compile a variety of information.
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to learn quick and focus on assignments.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions, with attention to detail and organization.
• Ability to handle reasonably necessary stress associated with this type of work.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet and limbs in performing tasks and operating equipment and tools related to this position.
• Ability to lift or move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to walk, stand or sit for extended periods of time, including the ability to walk or stand on rough or uneven surfaces.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, kneel and crouch.

Sensory Requirements:

• Ability to recognize and identify degrees of similarities and differences in job-related objects, materials and tasks.  Such sensory characteristics include:  colors, shapes/textures, sounds, odors and distance/depth.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.

Environmental Requirements:

• Tasks are performed indoors and outdoors, with occasional exposure to adverse environmental conditions such as: temperature/weather variations, odors, noise, wetness, traffic hazards, and/or dust.  Such exposure may cause some discomfort or a risk of injury if safe work practices are not followed.

All interested individuals must submit an online application.  Resume, cover letter or other documentation may be attached to completed online application.  Applications will then be reviewed upon receipt and the Kenosha Water Utility will analyze each applicant's education, training and experience.  Written, oral and/or proficiency exams may be required to establish eligibility.  Appointment to the position will be in accordance with Kenosha Water Utility and City of Kenosha policies and the Civil Service Rules and Regulations. The Kenosha Water Utility reserves the right to further evaluate only those applicants who best meet the needs of the organization.

Salary : $16 - $21