GIS Manager

Salary: $145,163.20 Annually
Location : 10 Park Plaza, Boston
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25-20867
Department: MBTA - Office of Chief Engineering
Area: 315-Office of Chief Engineering (Operating)
Opening Date: 03/10/2025
Closing Date: 3/24/2025 11:59 PM Eastern
Licenses / Certifications: None Required
Union Affiliation: L453 Professional
Safety Sensitive: Yes; this is a Safety Sensitive position. Employees in this role will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.
Essential Classification (Emergency Staff): Yes; this position is classified as essential. Employees in this role are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by supervisory personnel during declared States of Emergency.
On-Call or 24/7: Yes; this position is classified as on-call or 24/7. Employees in this role must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as directed by supervisory personnel.

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA's core values are built around safety, service, equity, and sustainability and each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed.
Job Summary
Inlinewith49 CFR 625, 630, and 673requirements,theGIS Manager is responsible to lead the development, implementation, and management of the Geographic Information System (GIS) for the authority. This role plays a critical part in supporting MBTA's asset management, reliability engineering, transportation planning, operations, and maintenance activities. The GIS Manager will oversee all GIS activities, including data management, spatial analysis, updates to track schematics, and application development.

This role will report to the Deputy Director of Configuration Engineering under the Engineering Department. This role will provide technical guidance and play a pivotal role in maturing MBTA's enterprise asset management (EAMS) software. This role will work in conjunction with Asset Information Managers, Reliability Engineers, Information Technology, Maintenance departments, and third-party assessors to ensure efficient user experience of any asset data represented via any GIS applications or formats.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Leadership & Team Management:
  • Collaborate and occasionally lead a support team within the Asset Management and Reliability Engineering Department, including analysts, coordinators, and other support staff.
  • Assign and manage project workloads, set goals, and ensure adherence to MBTA timelines and priorities.
  • Foster a collaborative work environment while providing guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.
• GIS Project Management:
  • Plan and manage GIS-related projects, aligning them with the MBTA's broader asset management, operational, and regulatory objectives.
  • Collaborate with internal departments such as Operations, Engineering, Planning, and Capital Programs to develop geospatial solutions that support decision-making and regulatory compliance (49 CFR 625, 630, and 673).
  • Ensure the delivery of timely and accurate GIS products, including maps, spatial data analysis, and reporting, to support capital planning and maintenance.
• Data Integrity & Compliance:
  • Oversee the acquisition, creation, and maintenance of spatial datasets to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and consistency across the MBTA.
  • Ensure compliance with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requirements, particularly in relation to asset lifecycle management, the State of Good Repair (SGR), and the annual FTA NTD submission.
  • Implement data governance procedures in line with industry standards to maintain data integrity within the Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system.
• Technology & System Management:
  • Administer and maintain GIS software platforms (e.g., ESRI ArcGIS) and associated geospatial tools to support MBTA's operations.
  • Collaborate with IT and external vendors to maintain system performance, develop new GIS applications, and integrate GIS with other MBTA systems such as the EAM, work order management systems, and asset databases.
  • Research and implement cutting-edge GIS technologies, including mobile and cloud-based solutions, to enhance operational efficiency and data accessibility.
• Spatial Analysis & Decision Support:
  • Lead the development of advanced spatial analysis and geospatial modeling to support decision-making across departments.
  • Generate high-quality maps, dashboards, and reports that provide insight into MBTA assets, transportation networks, and infrastructure needs.
  • Support capital planning efforts by producing geospatial data and analysis required for prioritizing investments and improving the State of Good Repair.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for GIS-related inquiries within the MBTA and external partners, including government agencies, vendors, and contractors.
  • Work with the Planning, Capital, and Operations teams to align GIS projects with key MBTA objectives and initiatives.
  • Represent MBTA's GIS team at industry conferences, forums, and working groups to stay at the forefront of emerging trends and best practices.
• General Responsibilities:

• On occasion be flexible to work all shifts and/or locations as assigned or directed.
• Respond or report to work as directed by supervisory personnel for emergencies, extreme weather conditions, or any other abnormal conditions that impair service or the safety of service, twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• Uphold the rights and interests of the Authority while building and maintaining an effective relationship with employees.
• Perform related duties and projects as assigned.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a technical field related to Architecture, Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Urban Planning, Transportation, or a related field.

• Five (5) years of professional experience with GIS, graphic design, asset management, enterprise asset management software suite, or CAD.
• One (1) year of leadership experience at the supervisory or individual level or management of large projects.
• Experience working within a transportation, public agency, or urban infrastructure environment is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in asset management, particularly in managing the lifecycle of transportation assets.
• Familiarity with data integration in Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems and GIS database management.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively explain technical concepts
• Exceptional problem-solving skills combined with analytical skills to analyze data, perform research, and diagnose and solve problems

Substitutions Include

• An Associate's Degree from an accredited institution in a technical field related to Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology or a related field with Three (3) years of professional experience with GIS, enterprise asset management software suite including project management, process improvement analysis, and software solution recommendation under enterprise software architecture.
• A high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) from an accredited institution with the ability to comprehend, communicate and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English and Seven (7) additional years of experience preferably in enterprise asset management software (EAMS) suite including project management, process improvement analysis, and software solution recommendation under enterprise software architecture

Preferred Experience and Required Skills

• A Master's degree or GIS certification (e.g., GISP) from an accredited institution in a technical field related to Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology or a related field.
• Employee or Consultant experience for a Transit/Rail agency.
• Asset Management and Configuration Management experience.
• Experience in Railroad or Transit infrastructure design and build.
• Basic knowledge of AREMA, Asset Management principals and EAMS.
• Knowledge of the FTA's State of Good Repair (SGR) standards, TERM Scale, and NTD reporting requirements.

Job Conditions:

• Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English
• Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role.
• Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences
• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team (or supervise, if required)
• Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers
• Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies
• Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection)
• Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings
• Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service

Disclaimers and Definitions:

General Disclaimer: The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position.

Application Completion: It is each applicant's responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current). Incomplete applications may not be considered. Attachments do not substitute for application fields. Recruitment team does not have access to existing employee data / history.

Application Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.

Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements.

Work Eligibility: Although the MBTA is an all employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer and on an unrestricted basis (the MBTA does not sponsor non-US citizens). However, if you have an unrestricted work authorization, or sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply for open positions. International students taking part in CPT / STEM / OPT programs through a university are eligible for internships and co-ops with the MBTA. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.

Interviews: Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview. Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request. However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email.

Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.

On-call or 24/7 Positions: Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority.

Essential / Emergency Staff: During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management.

ADA Accommodations: The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit

Employment Benefits at the MBTA

Full-Time Employees:

The MBTA offers comprehensive benefits packages to full-time employees. Types of benefits offered at the MBTA are subject to the union affiliation / Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) of the position to which you apply. Benefits that may apply to your position include the following:

• Insurance: Health, Dental, Vision, Life (basic and supplemental), and Long-Term Disability
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation, Personal Days, Sick Leave, and Holidays
• Retirement: Pension or deferred compensation 401(a), plus MBTA contributions
• Complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail)
• Tuition Reimbursement (up to $10,000 per year)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for student loans
• Commuter Choice Parking Program: Pre-tax benefits for parking
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax benefits for healthcare-related expenses
• Discounted tickets for concerts, movies, travel / vacation, etc. via TicketsAtWork.com
• Shopping discounts via GovX.com
• Verizon and AT&T service discounts
• And more...

Internships:

Internship positions are not eligible for most MBTA Benefits. However, paid sick time may be incurred. Each intern also receives a complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail) to use throughout the duration of their internship. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email internships@mbta.com for more information.

Disclaimer:

The above information is meant to be a general overview of the benefit programs offered by the MBTA, which may or may not apply to a specific position. This summary is not a contract andis not meant to change the provisions of union contracts or Authority policies and does not establish a binding practice. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email hrstaffing@mbta.com for more information.

The MBTA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
01

What is the highest level of education you have already completed?

• I did not attain a high school diploma or equivalent / GED.
• High School Diploma or Equivalent / GED
• Some College
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Some Graduate School
• Master's Degree
• Juris Doctorate
• PHD / Doctorate

02

How many years professional experience do you have with GIS, graphic design, asset management, enterprise asset management software suite, or CAD.

• 0 to less than !
• 1 to less than 3
• 3 to less than 5
• 5 to less than 7
• 7+

03

Do you have one (1) year of leadership experience at the supervisory or individual level or management of large projects?

• Yes
• No

04

Do you have proven experience in asset management, particularly in managing the lifecycle of transportation assets.

• Yes
• No

05

Do you have familiarity with data integration in Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems and GIS database management?

• Yes
• No

06

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status)?

• Yes
• No

Required Question