Senior Lidar and GIS Technician

Competition 2714

This competition is restricted to internal applicants of the University of Alberta. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position has a term length of one year plus a day, with the strong possibility of renewal, and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location -  This position offers a flexible work arrangement, allowing for a combination of remote and/or in-office work based on work preferences. We welcome applicants from across Alberta. In the event that you need to work on-site, you may have the flexibility to attend either the Edmonton or Calgary offices based on your location and convenience. Preference will be discussed during the recruitment process.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI)

The Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI) is dedicated to tracking changes in biodiversity across the entirety of Alberta for the next 100 years, and this resultant information provides Albertans the ability to make informed decisions about the state of their environment in ways never before possible.

Position Summary

The Senior Lidar & GIS Technician plays a key technical and coordination role within the Imaging Centre at the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI), supporting the delivery of high-quality geospatial products and services. Reporting to the lidar and GIS Specialist, this position is responsible for a range of geospatial tasks related to lidar and GIS data processing, with a primary focus on the accurate delineation of linear features such as seismic lines. The role involves maintaining the integrity and reliability of GIS data through standardized data management practices, including cataloging and storage of a wide range of geospatial data. The Junior Specialist also contributes to capacity building by training junior technical staff as needed, and supports internal and external communication efforts related to data packaging and client delivery. Additionally, the position provides training and support to a small team of 2–7 GIS technicians, helping to coordinate and guide day-to-day geospatial tasks to ensure project success.

Duties 

1. Project Work (50%)

• Digitize and update linear features using satellite imagery and GIS tools.
• Interpret satellite and LiDAR-derived imagery to extract geospatial information.
• Perform quality control and error correction of LiDAR datasets using tools like LAStools and Global Mapper.
• Conduct data accuracy checks, calculate LiDAR statistics, and troubleshoot workflow issues.
• Run R/Python scripts for data processing and reporting.
• Develop knowledge of Alberta’s landscapes, especially the Boreal Forest region.

2. Data Management & Delivery (25%)

• Standardize, catalog, and store geospatial data following ABMI protocols.
• Assign metadata, maintain file structures, and manage cloud/server storage.
• Support data integration, packaging, and delivery to internal and external stakeholders.
• Communicate timelines, requirements, and provide supporting materials (e.g., maps, reports).

3. Team Leadership & Training (25%)

• Mentor GIS/LiDAR technicians and support SOP and documentation development.
• Lead a team (2–7 technicians), set priorities, assign tasks, and review outputs for QA/QC.
• Conduct team meetings and provide technical support and guidance.
• Provide backup for the LiDAR and Geospatial Data Specialist as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Geospatial Science, GIS, Remote Sensing, Geography, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, Forestry, or a related field.
• A diploma or associate’s degree in GIS (or related field) with significant relevant experience may also be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years of applied GIS experience, including hands-on use of GIS-based tools.
• Experience with LiDAR data processing and interpretation is an asset.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

2. Technical Skills

• Proficient in GIS digitization techniques and geospatial best practices.
• Skilled in interpreting geographic features, land cover, and land use using satellite imagery and LiDAR-derived data.
• Experience with geospatial tools such as: QGIS, ArcGIS Pro, Global Mapper, and LAStools
• Ability to troubleshoot GIS/LiDAR software issues and resolve data quality or spatial accuracy challenges.
• Familiarity with Python and R for geospatial scripting is an asset.

3. Other Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Ability to maintain focus and productivity during repetitive or complex tasks.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills; able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Effective communicator, capable of providing training and engaging with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including team coordination and task delegation.