The GIS Analyst plays a critical role in the planning, execution, and closeout phases of university construction projects by managing, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial data. The Analyst will collect, maintain, and improve the integrity of all spatial data and produce maps and analysis in support of key administrative and operational decisions. This position supports the architectural, design, project management, and maintenance teams by providing accurate, up-to-date location intelligence to aid in decision-making, mitigate risk, enhance project efficiency from site evaluation through 'as-built' documentation, and to support maintenance and emergency operations. This position will implement and maintain a suite of GIS and related software and processes in collaboration with department leadership and technical staff.

Duties

• Data Management and Maintenance:
  • Design, develop, and maintain the authoritative central Geographic Information System (GIS) database for university assets, including buildings, site utilities (such as electric, potable water, reclaimed water, gas, sewer, storm drains, and communications [IT]), streets and property lines, and evaluate and ensure data integrity, accuracy, usability, and consistency across all spatial layers.
  • Collect, process, and integrate diverse data sources, including CAD/Building Information Modeling (BIM) models, survey data, as-built plans, GPS/GNSS field collection points, aerial imagery (drone/satellite), utility records, and geotechnical reports.
  • Systematically evaluate, integrate, and update historical information from multiple digital and non-digital sources.
  • Implement robust quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures to ensure the accuracy and consistency of all spatial and non-spatial asset data.
• Spatial Analysis and Visualization:
  • Conduct spatial analysis to support long-range campus planning, capital construction projects (e.g., site evaluation, utility availability/locations ), and key construction decisions, including:
    • Site Analysis: Assessing topography, soil/geotechnical conditions and environmental constraints.
    • Utility Conflict Analysis: Identifying potential clashes between planned construction and existing utilities.
    • Resource Logistics: Evaluating and documenting delivery routes, staging areas, and material placement.
  • Generate high-quality cartographic products for public presentations, departmental reports, and regulatory compliance documentation. 
• Project Support and Field Operations:
  • Provide real-time geospatial support to field crews and project managers using mobile GIS applications (e.g., ArcGIS Field Maps).
  • Assist in the review, filing, and incorporation of "as-built" documentation and compiling final survey and construction data into the project's permanent GIS database and project archive.
  • Perform and/or oversee the detailed mapping and analysis of underground and above-ground utility networks to assist with maintenance and repair operations.
  • Support emergency planning and response efforts by providing immediate access to critical infrastructure maps and building layouts. 
• Technology and Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with the IT department on server maintenance, software licensing (e.g., ESRI products), integrations, and data security protocols for the campus GIS platform.
  • Collaborate with departmental teams to integrate GIS data with CAD and BIM platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit).
  • Collaborate with the Department of Facilities Services to provide data for facilities condition assessments and resource allocation.
  • Develop automated GIS workflows and custom scripts (e.g., Python/ArcPy) to streamline repetitive tasks and improve data processing efficiency.
  • Train and support project and maintenance staff on basic GIS viewing tools and best practices for utilizing location-based data, including supporting mobile field technology.
  • Support technology integrations with existing software (CMMS, PMIS, etc.) to facilitate efficient use. 
• Other duties as assigned.
• Uphold University mission through work performed.

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Skills and Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Geographic Information Systems, Geography, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field.
• 2+ years of professional experience working with GIS, preferably in a campus, construction, municipal, or utilities environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of data collection methods (GPS/Survey) and experience interpreting engineering drawings, construction drawings, as-built documents, and utility maps.
• Proficiency with ESRI ArcGIS software (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online/Enterprise).
• Experience with GPS/GNSS field data collection and post-processing techniques.
• Proficiency in data visualization and report generation.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a strong spatial reasoning ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of explaining complex geospatial concepts to non-technical staff.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to data accuracy and quality control.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license in California and be insurable under University insurance.
• Must be able to drive a personal vehicle for University business (mileage reimbursed).

Preferred:

• 5+ years of professional experience working with GIS.
• Working knowledge of Autodesk CAD and Revit/BIM software integration.
• Proficiency in Python scripting for GIS automation.
• GIS Professional (GISP) certification.
• Knowledge of construction practices, civil engineering plans, and utility infrastructure.
• Experience integrating GIS data with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) or other facilities databases.
• Experience working with institutions of higher education.

This is a Regular, Exempt, 40 hour per week position.

Expected Pay Range: $90,000 - $105,000 per year

The above pay range reflects what Pepperdine University reasonably expects to pay for this position at time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on relevant factors such as work experience, market conditions, education/training, and skill level. In addition to base pay, Pepperdine offers a robust and highly competitive benefits package.

Pepperdine is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Pepperdine is committed to providing a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Engaging in unlawful discrimination or harassment will result in appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the University.

Pepperdine is religiously affiliated with the Churches of Christ. It is the purpose of Pepperdine to pursue the very highest employment and academic standards within a context that celebrates and extends the spiritual and ethical ideals of the Christian faith. While students, faculty, and staff represent many religious backgrounds, Pepperdine is permitted under applicable law and reserves the right to seek, hire, and promote persons who support the goals and mission of the institution, including the right to prefer co-religionists who support Pepperdine's Christian mission.

Qualified individuals should be able to show respect for workplace differences, and have the ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds.

Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal, education, and employment screening. The University conducts such screenings in compliance with applicable laws and with the objectives of evaluating risk and supporting a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests; safeguarding key University assets including people, property, information, and the University’s reputation; and providing comprehensive job-related information to University leaders to enable them to make prudent hiring decisions. Individuals will be required to disclose any criminal convictions on a designated form after receiving a conditional offer of employment; failure to disclose accurate information may result in withdrawal of the offer or termination of employment. Qualified individuals with criminal histories will be considered for employment in compliance with applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.