GIS Technician (Graphic Designer A)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: GIS Technician (Graphic Designer A)

Company: PEPCO

Location: Bethesda, Maryland, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) / Design Operations

Date Posted: March 17, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of PEPCO's Geographic Information System (GIS) database, ensuring seamless data flow and operational efficiency.

• It involves the meticulous coordination of data edit requests and the management of all GIS data maintenance processes, directly impacting field operations and engineering.

• The position requires a high level of proficiency in CAD and GIS software to update plats, publish maps, and ensure data consistency across multiple dependent enterprise systems.

• This role also entails ensuring the quality, consistency, and integrity of GIS data, which is foundational for critical systems such as Outage Management Systems (OMS) and enterprise resource planning (SAP).

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title includes "Graphic Designer A," the core responsibilities and qualifications strongly indicate a specialized role within Geographic Information Systems (GIS) operations, focusing on data management, process coordination, and technical system maintenance within the utility sector. The "Graphic Designer" aspect likely refers to the visual representation and mapping outputs derived from the GIS data.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate and assign data edit requests, ensuring timely and accurate updates to the GIS database.

• Manage the GIS data maintenance process in collaboration with engineering, operations, and field personnel.

• Implement data changes derived from field inspections and engineering drawings into the GIS and CAD systems.

• Develop and maintain clearance maps and feeder approval processes in coordination with the OMS Model Administrator.

• Update and maintain plats using GIS and CAD software, adhering to company standards and specifications.

• Manage versions within the Graphic Information System (GIS) database, ensuring data integrity and version control.

• Develop and maintain GIS data maintenance procedures and follow established data maintenance specifications.

• Publish maps for viewing applications such as ArcFM and NMT-Faar on a periodic basis.

• Maintain the quality and consistency of data within the GIS database, including symbology, connectivity, and annotation rules.

• Review the completeness and data integrity for dependent systems, including OMS, WMIS, CAD, SAP, and GWD.

• Print feeder maps, plats, progress drawings, and other required GIS outputs for internal and external stakeholders.

• Provide CAD drawings, maps, stored displays, shape files, and PGDB files to internal teams, external customers, and specific external agencies.

• Perform emergency and storm contingency work as required, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness during critical events.

• Test all GIS-related applications and tools to ensure functionality and performance.

• Edit data/tasks in GIS to reflect field-installed quantities of auditable units of property, interpreting engineering drawings accurately.

• Follow Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures and create data queries/reports to monitor data quality and asset performance.

• Recommend productivity improvements for GIS data management processes and workflows.

• Update and maintain land base and electric network facility data and maps using GIS/CAD and other appropriate software.

• Post proposed and final construction drawings as required by project timelines.

• Review and close out WMIS As-Built jobs requiring manual posting.

• Review various reports (e.g., WMIS/SAP Failure, GIS Pending Manual Posting, OMS/FMS) to ensure accurate as-built data entry in GIS.

• Track all requested actions and the status of ongoing issues, maintaining clear communication channels.

• Collaborate with supervisors and colleagues on data model changes and technical discussions related to tracking asset data in CAD/GIS.

• Assist in training lower-classified employees, creating training guides as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary focus of this role is on the operational management and technical maintenance of GIS data for an electric utility. The responsibilities extend beyond simple graphic design to encompass data integrity, process coordination, and system integration, requiring a strong understanding of utility infrastructure and data management best practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's degree in Design, Applied Science, Engineering Technology, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of five years of experience and satisfactory performance as a Graphic Editor B.

• Demonstrated enhanced ability to use Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology at a high level of proficiency and efficiency.

• Experience demonstrating skill in interpreting engineering/construction plans and drawings.

• Experience demonstrating skill using PC-based word processing, spreadsheet, PDF conversion, database, and e-mail software.

• Experience demonstrating skill in following technical instructions or procedures (e.g., operating procedures, standards, code requirements, specifications).

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated proficiency in ESRI ArcGIS technology, including successful completion of ESRI training courses (e.g., Building Models for GIS Analysis Using ArcGIS 10, Turning Data into Information Using ArcGIS 10, Working with Annotation Using ArcGIS 10, Working with Geodatabase Domains and Subtypes for ArcGIS 10) and learned proficiency.

• Strong understanding of general drafting standards, practices, and procedures, with the ability to complete accurate drawings on schedule.

• Ability to interpret Grid Coordinate Systems (Longitude and Latitude coordinates).

• Ability to understand and apply General Safety Procedures applicable to the job.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively work as a team member, cooperating with others and accepting opposing ideas.

• Knowledge of data maintenance processes and procedures within a GIS environment.

• Experience with data integrity checks and QA/QC protocols.

Preferred Skills:

• Design experience with Esri's ArcGIS Geographic Information System (GIS), ArcMap, and ArcSchematics.

• Knowledge related to the electric utility industry and its specific GIS data requirements.

• Design experience with MicroStation.

• Experience using ESRI GWD ArcMap and ArcCatalog.

• Experience using ESRI ArcSchematics.

• Familiarity with Outage Management Systems (OMS) and Work Management Information Systems (WMIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The required ESRI training and demonstrated proficiency highlight the critical importance of advanced GIS technical skills. The preference for utility industry experience and specific software like MicroStation indicates a specialized operational environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of projects demonstrating the ability to manage and update complex GIS databases, including version control and data integrity management.

• Examples of map publishing for viewing applications (e.g., ArcFM, NMT-Faar), highlighting efficiency and accuracy.

• Documentation of processes followed for data maintenance, including implementation of field inspection changes and interpretation of engineering drawings.

• Case studies demonstrating problem-solving skills related to data inconsistencies or system integration challenges within GIS.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of procedures developed or followed for GIS data maintenance, emphasizing workflow optimization and efficiency.

• Demonstrate understanding of QA/QC processes applied to GIS data, including methods for ensuring data completeness and integrity for dependent systems.

• Illustrate experience in creating data queries and reports to monitor asset performance and data quality metrics.

• Include documentation of any process improvements recommended or implemented that enhanced productivity or data accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to present tangible examples of their work that illustrate their technical proficiency in GIS and CAD, their understanding of data management workflows, and their ability to contribute to process improvements within a utility operations context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Hourly Rate: $51.69/Hr. (This is based on the provided information, which states "Hourly rates will be paid in accordance with terms of the candidate’s skills, qualifications, experience or collective bargaining agreement").

Benefits:

• Annual Bonus: 4% for eligible positions.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) match and annual company contribution.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Income Protection: Life and disability insurance.

• Paid Time Off: Generous options including vacation, sick time, floating and fixed holidays.

• Family Support: Maternity leave, bonding/primary caregiver leave, parental leave, adoption and surrogacy assistance.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and resources for mental and emotional support.

• Development & Wellbeing: Tuition reimbursement, fitness reimbursement.

• Referral Bonus Program.

Working Hours:

• Standard work hours are 40 hours per week.

• Willingness and ability to work overtime on a regular basis, consistent with the Labor Agreement, is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate provided is specific and should be considered the primary compensation benchmark. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for a large utility organization, and includes strong support for employee wellbeing and family needs. The requirement for overtime is a key aspect of the work schedule.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electric Utility / Energy Services. PEPCO, as part of Exelon Corporation, is a Fortune 200 company at the forefront of the energy transformation, focused on delivering clean, reliable, and resilient energy solutions.

Company Size: Exelon Corporation is a large organization with approximately 20,000 employees. PEPCO itself operates within this expansive framework, serving over 10.7 million customers across multiple states. This size offers stability and a broad scope of operations.

Founded: Exelon Corporation was formed in 2000 through the merger of PECO Energy and Unicom, with PEPCO having a much longer history dating back to 1892. This long history signifies deep industry experience and a commitment to serving communities.

Team Structure:

• The GIS Technician will likely be part of a larger GIS department or an integrated operations support team within PEPCO's engineering or field operations division.

• This team will collaborate closely with engineering, field crews, IT, and potentially other departments that rely on accurate spatial data (e.g., outage management, asset management).

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is central, with a strong emphasis on maintaining data integrity for critical systems.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are crucial for managing edit requests, updates, and map publishing efficiently.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely encouraged, especially in data processing and reporting, to handle the volume of updates required in a utility environment.

Company Website: https://www.pepco.com/ (and https://jobs.exeloncorp.com for career opportunities)

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large, established utility like PEPCO means operating within a highly regulated environment that prioritizes safety, reliability, and process adherence. The company culture emphasizes purpose, innovation, integrity, and community service, aiming to foster an inclusive environment where employees can thrive.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a senior technician or specialist within the GIS operations domain. It requires significant technical expertise and experience (minimum 5 years as Graphic Editor B, plus advanced GIS skills), indicating a level beyond entry-level or standard technician roles. It is a key contributor role focused on maintaining critical operational data.

Reporting Structure: The GIS Technician will report to a supervisor or higher-classified Graphic Editor. They are also expected to coordinate work and potentially train or mentor lower-classified employees, demonstrating a degree of leadership and team coordination.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on operational efficiency and reliability. Accurate GIS data is fundamental for:

• Outage Management: Enabling quick identification and resolution of power outages.

• System Planning & Maintenance: Supporting engineering decisions for infrastructure upgrades and repairs.

• Emergency Response: Providing critical mapping for storm response and restoration efforts.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring data meets NERC/FERC standards.

• Customer Service: Indirectly through reliable service delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific GIS modules, utility data models, or related technologies (e.g., Esri ArcGIS Enterprise, advanced spatial analysis, data automation tools).

• Leadership: Progress into roles with more responsibility for team coordination, training, or project management within the GIS department.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into roles that leverage GIS skills in other operational areas, such as asset management, network engineering support, or data analytics.

• Advanced Certifications: Pursue further certifications in GIS, CAD, or utility-specific technologies to enhance marketability and skill set.

• Project Management: Take on project management responsibilities for GIS data improvement initiatives or system upgrades.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for technical specialization and potential leadership within a core operational function of a major utility. The emphasis on advanced GIS skills and utility-specific knowledge provides a strong foundation for a long-term career in operations technology.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, requiring the employee to work from the PEPCO office located at 10611 Westlake Drive, Bethesda, Maryland. The environment is likely a professional office setting designed for technical and administrative work.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Bethesda, Maryland. As part of Exelon, PEPCO operates across a broader region, but this specific role is tied to the Bethesda office.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will primarily involve sitting at a computer workstation for extended periods, utilizing GIS and CAD software.

• Collaboration is a key aspect, with opportunities to work with colleagues, supervisors, and potentially field personnel.

• Access to necessary GIS/CAD hardware and software licenses will be provided.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• A critical requirement is the willingness and ability to work overtime on a regular basis, as needed and consistent with the labor agreement. This is common in utility operations, especially during peak demand, storm events, or project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a standard office environment with a strong emphasis on computer-based work. The flexibility to work overtime is a crucial aspect of the role's commitment within the utility sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Resume and application review to assess minimum qualifications and relevant experience.

• Technical Assessment: Potentially a skills test or practical exercise focusing on GIS/CAD software proficiency, data interpretation, and problem-solving scenarios relevant to utility operations.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Interviews with hiring managers and team members to assess teamwork, communication skills, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit. Expect questions related to handling data discrepancies, working under pressure, and collaborating with diverse teams.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present selected projects from their portfolio, demonstrating their GIS/CAD skills, process understanding, and impact.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or department heads for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your ability to manage GIS data, interpret engineering drawings, create accurate maps, and ensure data integrity for utility operations.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and actions, the tools used (especially ArcGIS, CAD), and the positive outcome or improvement achieved (e.g., improved data accuracy, faster map generation, better system integration).

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to walk through specific examples of your work in GIS and CAD software, explaining your techniques for symbology, connectivity, annotation, and data editing.

• Highlight Process Adherence: Show how you followed QA/QC procedures, technical instructions, and safety protocols. If you recommended process improvements, detail those.

• Utility Context: If possible, tailor examples to the electric utility industry, showcasing understanding of network facilities, feeder maps, or outage-related data.

Challenge Preparation:

• GIS/CAD Scenarios: Prepare for hypothetical scenarios involving data discrepancies, urgent map requests, or integrating new data sources.

• Process Optimization: Be ready to discuss how you would approach improving a specific GIS data maintenance workflow or QA/QC process.

• Software Proficiency: Practice using common GIS/CAD functions that might be tested, such as creating queries, updating attributes, or generating specific map layouts.

• NERC/FERC Awareness: Understand the importance of data integrity in a regulated environment and be prepared to discuss how your work contributes to compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is likely a significant component. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just technical skills but also their understanding of operational processes, problem-solving abilities, and their fit within a regulated utility environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• GIS Software:

  • ESRI ArcGIS: This is the core technology. Proficiency in ArcMap, ArcCatalog, and related extensions is essential. Specific mention of "Building Models for GIS Analysis," "Turning Data into Information," "Working with Annotation," and "Working with Geodatabase Domains and Subtypes" indicates a need for deep understanding of the geodatabase structure and analytical capabilities.
  • ArcSchematics: For managing network connectivity and schematic diagrams.
  • Geographic Information System (GIS) database management: Understanding how to manage and maintain data within a GIS.

• CAD Software:

  • CAD Software: General proficiency is required.
  • MicroStation: Preferred, indicating potential use in a mixed CAD environment or for specific design tasks.

• Database Management:

  • Personal GeoDatabase (PGDB): For data storage and management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Queries/Reports: Ability to create custom queries to extract data for analysis and reporting on data quality and asset performance.

• Reporting Tools: While not explicitly named, likely includes standard reporting features within GIS/CAD or integration with enterprise reporting systems.

CRM & Automation:

• OMS (Outage Management System): Crucial for understanding how GIS data feeds into outage response.

• WMIS (Work Management Information System): Used for tracking and managing field work, requiring integration with GIS data.

• SAP: Enterprise resource planning system, likely used for asset management and financial tracking, requiring data synchronization with GIS.

• GWD (GIS Workload Distribution or similar): Potentially a system for managing GIS tasks or data distribution.

• Automation Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, recommending productivity improvements hints at an openness to or need for automation in data processing or reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on ESRI ArcGIS and its specific modules is paramount. Candidates must be able to demonstrate advanced practical experience with these tools, as well as an understanding of how GIS integrates with other critical utility systems (OMS, WMIS, SAP).

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety: Paramount in the utility industry. Adherence to safety procedures is non-negotiable.

• Integrity: Upholding high standards in data accuracy, reporting, and professional conduct.

• Innovation: Driving process improvements and adopting new technologies to enhance efficiency and reliability.

• Inclusivity: Valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a collaborative environment where all employees can thrive.

• Community Service: Commitment to serving the energy needs of the communities PEPCO supports.

• Reliability: Ensuring the consistent and dependable operation of energy infrastructure through accurate data management.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires significant collaboration with engineering, field operations, IT, and other departments that rely on GIS data. Effective communication and partnership are key.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages the review of existing processes and the open exchange of feedback for continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, create training guides, and mentor less experienced colleagues.

• Problem-Solving Focus: Working collaboratively to tackle complex data challenges and system integration issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and alignment with these values, particularly regarding safety, data integrity, and collaborative problem-solving within a large, regulated utility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Data Accuracy & Integrity: Maintaining the highest level of accuracy for critical operational data across multiple interconnected systems can be challenging due to the volume and complexity of updates.

• System Integration Complexity: Ensuring seamless data flow and consistency between GIS, OMS, WMIS, SAP, and other systems requires deep technical understanding and careful coordination.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Rapid advancements in GIS technology and utility operational needs require continuous learning and adaptation.

• Balancing Urgency and Accuracy: Managing urgent data requests (e.g., during storms) while maintaining rigorous QA/QC standards.

• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to strict NERC/FERC standards for data management and reporting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced GIS/CAD Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific ESRI products and advanced CAD functionalities.

• Utility Industry Knowledge: Gaining in-depth understanding of electric utility operations, infrastructure, and data requirements.

• Process Improvement Skills: Developing skills in workflow analysis, automation, and optimization techniques.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Opportunities to lead projects, train junior staff, and develop supervisory skills.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learning how GIS data impacts various operational facets of the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex operational data challenges within a vital industry, fostering significant professional growth in specialized technical and operational areas.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Efficiency: "Describe a time you implemented a process improvement in GIS data management that increased efficiency or accuracy. What was your approach?" (Focus on process examples, data-driven rationale, and efficiency strategy).

• Data Integrity & Problem Solving: "Imagine you discover a significant discrepancy in the GIS data that impacts the OMS. How would you approach resolving this, considering the urgency and potential impact?" (Focus on problem-solving methodology, process examples, and stakeholder communication).

• Technical Proficiency: "Walk us through a complex GIS project you managed. What were the key technical challenges, and how did you leverage ArcGIS and CAD to overcome them?" (Focus on case study presentation, technical skills demonstration, and operations strategy articulation).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for PEPCO/Exelon, and what do you know about our commitment to energy transformation?" (Research company mission, values, and recent initiatives; align your aspirations with their goals).

• "How do you ensure data quality and accuracy in your work, especially when dealing with multiple systems and stakeholders?" (Demonstrate understanding of operations culture, data-driven approach, and collaboration).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly explain your contributions.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your work (e.g., "reduced data entry time by X%", "improved map accuracy by Y%", "supported Z number of critical outage responses").

• Highlight Technical Skills: Be prepared to explain how you used specific GIS/CAD features and tools to achieve results. This is where your technical depth will shine.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize the processes you followed, including QA/QC, data validation, and collaboration with stakeholders.

• Tailor to the Role: Select projects that best align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly those involving utility infrastructure, data maintenance, and system integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate a strong understanding of GIS/CAD technical skills, operational processes, problem-solving capabilities, and their potential contribution to PEPCO's mission within a regulated utility environment. The portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to showcase practical experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Exelon careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that clearly showcases your experience with ESRI ArcGIS, CAD software, data maintenance, and interpretation of utility engineering drawings. Highlight projects demonstrating data integrity, map publishing, and process improvements.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords from the job description, such as "GIS," "CAD," "ArcGIS," "data maintenance," "QA/QC," "utility operations," "OMS," "WMIS," and "SAP." Quantify your achievements with specific examples and metrics.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral and technical questions related to GIS data management, problem-solving, teamwork, and working in a regulated environment. Prepare to present your portfolio effectively, focusing on the impact and process of your work.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research PEPCO and Exelon Corporation. Understand their mission, values, commitment to the energy transformation, and any recent projects or news related to operations or technology. Be ready to discuss how your skills and career goals align with their objectives.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.