These essential competencies may apply to but are not limited to the following Position Series: Landscape Architect GS-807, Outdoor Recreation Planner GS-023, Computer Specialist GS-334, Natural Resource Specialist GS-401, Civil Engineer GS-810, Multi-disciplinary positions, and Cartographer GS-1307, GS-408, 025, 1301, 1302, 462, Cartographic Technician GS-1371, Geographer GS-150

ENTRY LEVEL

Description: These competencies identify the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required to perform basic GIS tasks in the Natural Resources program area. Duties may expand to cover the next highest level or computer specialist duties. Work is performed under close supervision with emphasis on data accuracy and management and developing work skills.

The following competencies are not listed in priority order.

I. Spatial and Relational DataBase Development Duties

A. Data Collection

B. Inputs data into GIS or other databases

C. Builds and edits databases as directed

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge and skills in analog and digital spatial data collection and input techniques and practices

Ability to use a global positioning system with minimum of errors

Understands and correctly applies cartographic principles such as coordinate systems, scale and resolution, projections, and thematic mapping techniques for simple map composition and production, and database construction

II. Data and Information Management Duties

A. Maintains data in a prescribed organization

B. Documents data using prescribed standards

C. Follows prescribed procedures for backups and archiving data

D. Inventories data holdings

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge and ability to properly operate database management software and systems

Knowledge and ability to follow directions and read and understand technical manuals

Ability to learn, interpret and adhere to Federal Geographic Data Committee data, metadata, and data transfer standards

Ability to understand and organize information in a logical and consistent manner

III. Computer Hardware and Operating System Duties

A. Performs basic operation of 16 and 32 bit operating systems (such as DOS, Windows 95, OS2, Windows NT, and UNIX related systems)

B. Uses windowing technology

C. Uses Internet and other networks

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Ability to operate computer hardware and operating systems

Knowledge and skills in using basic windowing software

Knowledge and skills in accessing other systems and data via computer networks

Knowledge of the Internet, client and server environments, and software tools

IV. Use and Management of GIS Software and Related Technologies

A. Uses routine modules of Arc/Info or other workstation/PC-based GIS software including but not limited to ArcView, ArcEdit, ArcPlot, and Arc.

B. Performs routine operation of GPS and related software including Pfinder and other products.

C. Operates and maintains various GIS input and output devices and related software.

D. Performs data manipulation and reporting

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Understands and correctly applies cartographic principles such as coordinate systems, scale and resolution, projections, and thematic mapping techniques for simple map composition and production, and database construction

Knowledge, skills and ability to operate GIS and GPS as well as printers, plotters, digitizers, and scanners

Ability to communicate orally and in writing

V. Geographic Spatial Modeling

A. Operates routine, predefined models and displays results.

B. Uses AML(Arc macro language) and other Macro languages.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of GIS geoprocessing theories and analysis techniques

Knowledge of GIS software modeling and application functions and modules

DEVELOPMENTAL LEVEL

Description: These competencies identify the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required to perform working or developmental level GIS tasks in the Natural Resources program area. At this level the GIS Staff is assumed to be competent and able to perform all entry level competencies in addition to the ones listed below.

Duties may expand to cover the next highest level or computer specialist duties. Work is performed under normal supervision with emphasis on data accuracy and management, and development of advanced work skills.

I. Spatial and Relational DataBase Development Duties

A. Designs GIS databases, applications, and output

B. Identifies data needs and sources, acquires appropriate data

C. Employs remote sensing and aerial photo interpretation techniques to acquire and synthesize data

D. Instructs and checks data collectors regarding correct procedures, data requirements, and metadata creation.

E. Employs geographic coordinate systems and CAD and GIS data transfer techniques to input and integrate site maps, plans and drawings into the GIS for analysis.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge and skills in analog and digital imagery and photography interpretation including but not limited to black and white, color infrared, and various sensor spectral bands over a wide variety of terrains and vegetation types

Ability to see stereo and use a stereo scope or zoom transfer scope. Knowledge of photogrammetry and remote sensing principles

Ability to use appropriate solutions for integrating various scales and resolutions of spatial data into GIS database and executing analyses

Understands and correctly applies geographical and geodetic control concepts to plan data collection, GPS surveys, and set up appropriate ground control systems

Knowledge of local and national spatial data standards, producers, and availability of data

Knowledge of and ability to use engineering type data and CAD software

II. Data and Information Management Duties

A. Designs data structures and linkages for optimum data integration and useability

B. Prepares data and metadata for publishing and archiving

C. Designs and tracks data maintenance schedules and operations

D. Checks data quality, evaluates inventories, assesses accuracy of models and data produced in-house and makes the appropriate changes to decrease errors

E. Makes recommendations and coordinates data acquisition, exchanges, and development with NPS and non-NPS planning, transportation, and engineering offices and institutions

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge, skills and ability to use and develop relational databases and query tools not limited to SQL, Informix, dBase, Oracle, and other commonly used relational database software

Skills and ability to interpret and analyze data needs and uses. Knowledge of other planning datbases and data sources

Knowledge and ability to estimate error rates, statistical propagation of errors, and determine data accuracy needs

Ability to create and distribute softcopy documents including graphics and cross references or computer address links in hypertext markup language or other text and data publishing formats. Ability to integrate and use graphics and publishing software

Knowledge, skills, and ability to integrate, transfer, import and export a variety of file formats including CAD, ARC, GIF, TIC, PBX, GRASS etc

Knowledge of data liability, use and distribution of sensitive data, Freedom of Information Act, and national metadata and data transfer standards OMB A-16, OMB A-130, and NPS-20

III. Computer and Operating System Duties

A. Creates scripts/shells to optimize system capabilities

B. Installs and updates software

C. Troubleshoots problems and utilizes vendor support when necessary

D. Helps maintain computer system and network connectivity

E. Helps provide Internet support and assists with creating servers and querying capabilities

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge and ability to use programming languages such as C and Arc Macro Language

Skills and ability to manage a computer system and software for optimum performance, identifying shortfalls and needs for normal and extra system functions. Ability to use diagnostic and anti-viral software

Knowledge of computer system security

Knowledge and skills in client-server and a multi-platform (PC, UNIX and other) computer environment

V. Use and Management of GIS Software and Related Technologies

A. Uses all modules of Arc/Info and other GIS software packages.

B. Develops user tools and techniques to automate routine tasks and standardize production environment

C. Designs and executes GIS analyses and models

D. Uses and integrates standard modules and commands in image processing software such as ERDAS

E. Uses and integrates graphics and publishing software

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge, skills, and abilities in the use of GIS and related software

Ability to modify and adapt software including the development of Macros and window based links

Ability to document and analyze software problems

Ability to find solutions to malfunctions, application development etc. with vendor or technical support

VI. Planning GIS Application & Modeling

A. Develops planning GIS applications (including but not limited to General Management plans, General Development Plans, site selection, landscape architecture, landscape restoration, viewshed analysis).

B.Executes GIS analysis for park and program mangers, cooperators and planning team members

C. Supports NPS management by producing hardcopy maps, reports, presentation and planning materials and displays from results of GIS analysis/model

D. Assist with General Management and other planning documents and projects, proposals and budgets

E. Assists with setting up data management for planning data holdings and integrates the related resource data into the GIS

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of and ability to carry out geoprocessing and analysis techniques

Knowledge of and ability to use GIS and other software modeling and application functions and modules

Knowledge of earth/environmental and engineering sciences including but not limited to physical geography, geology, soils, and wetlands management

Knowledge of NPS General Management Plans, Development Concept Plans, site plans, and GIS management, planning, budget cycles, and documentation requirements, including hardware and software life cycle management

Knowledge of legally mandated planning and compliance policies such as Wetlands Protection and National Environmental Policy Act

FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL

Description: These competencies identify the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required to perform working level GIS tasks in the Planning program area. Work is performed under little or no supervision with emphasis on GIS planning support and program management and contributing to planning activities at the Denver

Service Center or in more than one park or planning office, supervision and training of technicians or other technical support staff, and written/oral communication skills. Full performance level competencies include those at the developmental and entry level also.

I. Spatial and Relational DataBase Development Duties

A. Designs GIS databases and planning or decision support databases for a variety of applications and levels of expertise, and for one computer or a network of linked systems.

B. Coordinates and facilitates database development by conducting user needs/requirements queries; analyzing results of queries, data inventories and metadata, future technologies and data acquisition plans; organizing data management meetings, and developing informal and formal agreements for data sharing and development.

C. Keeps abreast of, evaluates, and appropriately applies newest technologies and techniques of data acquisition and production, and evaluates new data products.

D. Employs advanced remote sensing and geographical analysis techniques to derive required data.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Understands and correctly applies advanced principles of geodetic science, cartography, remote sensing and data management

Knowledge of and ability to work with and apply spatial data policies, interpret legal decision, and Freedom of Information Act to GIS program

II. Data and Information Management Duties

A. Fully integrates and tailors numerous and variable data and databases for management of parks and related areas.

B. Trains and orients others in the uses of different data types and products, how to document data (metadata) and how to more effectively better share data without endangering data integrity or releasing sensitive resource information.

C. Develops data management tools, user interfaces, and techniques for better management access and integration of data and databases

D. Ensures quality and accuracy of all information generated by GIS staff

E. Implements, updates and backs up, and maintains distributed GIS and related data, browse graphic files, data inventories, indices, databases, and metadata. Provides them to servicewide information centers or clearinghouse for distribution and archiving.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Advanced knowledge and ability to use and integrate database management systems software and various GIS topology types and data models

III. Computer and Operating System Duties

A. Develops GIS system requirements and implements the appropriate system or networked systems. Evaluates GIS system performance and adjusts as necessary for optimum performance and useability.

B. Reviews all GIS and GIS related hardware, software, and contracted GIS service acquisitions. Works with other computer specialists, managers, and system administrators to provide appropriate overall system capabilities, technologies and services.

C. Develops and customizes advanced computer programs and routines as needed for GIS operations.

D. Works with system administer to guarantee timely back ups of all GIS data and software and operation system software in order to avoid system downtime and loss of data.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Advanced knowledge, skills and abilities with Internet browsing, data transfers, and querying using a variety of tools and systems including but not limited to the World Wide Web and Wide Area Information System (WAIS)

Knowledge and ability to understand and follow directions as found in technical manuals

Advanced knowledge, skills and abilities to operate and manage computer hardware and operating system

IV. Use and Management of GIS Software and Related Technologies A. Implements distributed GIS systems integrating PC and other platforms and GIS software.

B. Uses all advanced modules of ArcInfo and at least one other GIS software package.

C. Customizes and integrates GIS software as needed with little or no technical assistance or vendor support.

D. Provides GIS software training to staff, using tutorials or customizing them as needed

E. Operates and maintains various GIS input/output devices and related software.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Advanced knowledge and ability to use advanced modules of ArcInfo and other GIS software

V. Planning GIS Application & Modeling

A. Customizes data models, analysis techniques, and Statistics and spatial statistic algorithms and software for GIS, planning studies, and management decision support.

B. Translates GIS generated results into external engineering, planning and design, statistical and mathematical models for further analysis or aggregation at a larger scale.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Advanced knowledge and ability to understand planning issues and requirements and creatively develop sound and practical GIS solutions and analyses

Knowledge of and ability to apply and integrate engineering, planning and design, statistical models and software to GIS applications

VI. GIS Program Management

A. Supervises cartographic or GIS technicians

B. Performs cost benefit analyses of GIS operations and system to evaluate current and future GIS operations and implementation plans.

C. Tracks and manages GIS accounts and budget for planning projects, hardware, software, training, travel, and other GIS expenses

D. Coordinates GIS Program activities with other divisions, NPS units and/or planning offices, state and local institutions.

E. Prepares and maintains all GIS and related planning documents

F. Develops and/or customizes technical training and training plans for staff (GIS and other)

G. Develops materials and provides informative briefings to staff for GIS system usage, upgrades, and to facilitate ease of use and coordinate organizational changes that result from advances or changes in GIS technologies

H. Assists with the development of or adapts from existing, local policy, procedures, and guidelines for data collection and documentation, and GIS operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing

Knowledge of federal and NPS procurement, planning and budget cycles and processes

Knowledge and skills with personnel requirements, employee evaluation schedules, employee relations, development programs

Ability to work effectively with others

Ability to effectively organize, prioritize, and manage projects