GIS Software / Application Developer

As a GIS Software/Application Developer at Strategic Data Systems, your key responsibilities will include evaluating system configurations, providing integration services for the Environmental Information Management System (EIMS), and gathering requirements for software updates. Additionally, you'll be tasked with developing technical plans, employing object-oriented coding principles, and ensuring the compatibility of software applications with governmental and non-governmental systems. Your role will also involve providing technical support to EIMS users while conducting code reviews to maintain high standards throughout the development process.

To qualify for the GIS Software/Application Developer position at Strategic Data Systems, you should possess a Bachelor's Degree in computer science or a related IT field, along with at least five years of relevant experience. Alternatively, an Associate’s Degree or professional developer certificate with a minimum of ten years of experience will be acceptable. Additionally, an active DOD Secret Security Clearance and IAT Level II Certification are highly desirable, especially if you have experience in developing geospatial applications using .NET framework and related technologies.

In the GIS Software/Application Developer role at Strategic Data Systems, your programming skills in .NET framework, particularly with ASPX, C#, Visual Basic, and JavaScript, will be essential. Familiarity with Environmental Systems Research Institute and Oracle spatial products is an added advantage. Your capacity to implement object-oriented programming principles, manage coding standards, and modify COTS software will be key aspects of your day-to-day functions.

At Strategic Data Systems, supporting our GIS Software/Application Developer involves collaboration and providing resources for success. This includes technical support for users of the Environmental Information Management System (EIMS), hands-on assistance during installation, and opportunities to engage in project meetings to discuss development updates. We appreciate teamwork and encourage our developers to highlight any challenges during development to facilitate solutions collectively.

The work environment at Strategic Data Systems for a GIS Software/Application Developer is entirely remote, providing flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere. This setup encourages a healthy work-life balance while fostering a collaborative and innovative mindset. You'll engage with a skilled team dedicated to advancing the Environmental Information Management System (EIMS), and you're empowered to contribute ideas and solutions to enrich the project.

When discussing your experience with GIS technologies and geospatial applications, highlight specific projects where you utilized tools like .NET Framework. Explain how you developed web or desktop applications, mentioning programming languages you’re proficient in, such as C# or JavaScript. Providing concrete examples of how your contributions improved system functionality or user experience can effectively showcase your skills.

During your interview, explain your systematic approach to troubleshooting. Detail how you identify issues by conducting thorough analysis and provide examples of instances where you resolved similar problems. Highlight your collaboration with users to understand their challenges and the steps you take to ensure a seamless resolution, which reflects your problem-solving skills and customer-focused mindset.

Discuss the coding standards you adhere to while developing applications. Mention best practices such as writing readable and maintainable code, conducting code reviews, and following guidelines specific to your previous projects. Emphasizing your commitment to high-quality code will illustrate your professionalism and attention to detail in your work.

You can answer this by elaborating on the importance of understanding the operational context and the diverse systems involved. Discuss strategies you utilize, such as utilizing APIs or middleware to facilitate communication between systems, and researching compatibility requirements. Share experiences where you successfully enabled interoperation in past projects to strengthen your answer.

In your response, mention any instances where you modified COTS software to meet specific system requirements. Discuss the advantages of utilizing COTS solutions, such as cost-effectiveness and faster deployment, while emphasizing your ability to tailor them to implementation needs without extensive custom coding. This illustrates your resourcefulness in software development.

Explain the importance of documentation throughout your development processes. Discuss tools and technologies you’ve used for version control, such as subversion tools that maintain historical archives of source code. Detail how you document coding standards, project decisions, and meeting minutes, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and maintaining transparency.

Reflect on a challenging project and convey the obstacles you faced, detailing your thought process and the strategies you employed to overcome them. Highlight collaboration with team members, stakeholder engagement, and your adaptability in finding solutions. This showcases your resilience and initiative in navigating complex scenarios.

Discuss your experience with version control systems, including how you use them to manage code revisions, collaborate with other developers, and maintain a history of changes. Elaborate on the significance of version control in safeguarding against data loss and ensuring team collaboration. Providing examples of how you’ve effectively managed version control can illustrate your technical proficiency.

Share your perspective on the importance of incorporating user feedback in the development process. Discuss methods you use to gather feedback, such as user testing or surveys, and how you analyze this information to drive improvements in the application. This highlights your commitment to user-centered design and product enhancement.

When answering this, connect your professional aspirations with the mission of Strategic Data Systems. Explain your admiration for the projects they work on, especially in the environmental sector, and your desire to contribute to meaningful initiatives. Mention how your skills align with the role, showcasing your enthusiasm and cultural fit within the organization.