Sr Geospatial Information Analyst

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow?  A  position at Xcel Energy could be just what you’re looking for.

Position Summary

Leads spatial data analyses to support Xcel Energy business objectives. Primary responsibilities focus on the use of geospatial analysis to enhance the planning, siting, operation and maintenance of Xcel Energy facilities. Uses advanced technologies including spatial analysis, geocoding, scripting and the social and physical sciences to create information, characterize events and discover relationships and trends that may impact project outcomes. Develops descriptive and predictive analyses and communicates the results, meaning and significance as written, visual and/or oral geospatial information. Teams with other analysts to extract, interpret, and perform advanced analytics on data findings.

Essential Responsibilities

• Projects: Responsible for leading advanced geospatial analyses to support decision making for site selection, permitting and development of major energy facilities. Oversees GIS activities as an integral member of internal multidisciplinary teams. Leads the creation of opportunities and constraint analysis, maps and other graphic representations that clearly illustrate analytical findings for use in project meetings, public open houses, communications materials and applications. May create photo-simulations and/or video animations to further convey project development and impact. Oversees GIS interns and geospatial consultants on projects. May testify on behalf of company regarding siting analyses

• Spatial Analysis: Leads the creation of viewshed analysis, line of sight profiles and other 3D visualizations to assess the impact of potential new facilities to visual aesthetics in local environments, and that are consistent with federal guidelines for visual resource management. Leads the identification and analysis of conditions affecting potential sites, such as social, political, environmental, geographic and other conditions. May provide analysis to support engineering requirements.

• Data Quality: Ensures the development and maintenance of accurate Landworks geospatial data, company land data, wind facility locations, other geodatabases, analytical methodologies, and cartographic standards. Provide training and instruction to employees on the use and capabilities of existing Xcel Energy GIS portals, internal web mapping sites and map archives. Assesses data quality and integrity of relevant internal and external GIS information. Ensures the confidentiality and quality of data shared with outside entities. Oversees the use of asset and project data in the field and ensures corporate data and information security policies are followed

• Data Collaboration: Directly coordinates with internal and external customers regarding data sharing requests and requirements. Ensures positive relationships with city and county planning departments, state land use boards, federal agency land use staff to promote data exchange opportunities where available. Leads participation in the evaluation of tools and creation of customized methodologies and applications.

• Technology: Recommends and develops GIS solutions for visualizing, distributing and managing geospatial information within the organization. Provide technical guidance for corporate geospatial programs and initiatives Promotes geospatial awareness within the company. Advise management and coordinate with Business Systems on corporate geospatial programs and initiatives. Coordinates with internal customers to identify and develop geospatial solutions.

Minimum Requirements

Degree in GIS, cartography, geography, or similar field. Advanced knowledge of GIS technologies and ability to work with aerial photography. Demonstrated knowledge of ESRI Suite of products. Experience with Microsoft Suite of Office Products, database entry and cartographic skills. Ability to work outdoors in various terrains is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills and customer support skills required as well as ability to work independently with minimal or no oversight. Preferred: Experience in 3D imaging methods, AutoCAD, scripting, experience in GIS applications for electric and gas utilities. Masters in GIS. Minimum of 5 years of experience in GIS projects required ( Master's Degree in the stated disciplines plus 3 years of directly related experience is also qualifying).

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 mill