What are the responsibilities and job description for the GIS Technican position at Aquila Corporation?
GIS Technician
Location: Batesville, Indiana (occasional travel)
Employment Type: Full-Time, W-2 with Benefits
Reports To: GIS Team Lead
Compensation: Competitive, commensurate with experience
About Aquila
Aquila Corporation is a fast-growing engineering and construction firm that designs and builds next-generation telecom and fiber-optic infrastructure. Founded in 2019, we began by performing site acquisition and permitting for 5G small cell networks. Within a year we expanded into full A&E design services, and by 2022 we were designing complete fiber-optic networks for Internet Service Providers. In 2023 we added construction services — and today, with around 100 employees, we’re continuing to grow rapidly as an integrated design-build partner for telecom providers across the U.S.
Aquila combines engineering precision with the agility of a startup. We leverage modern tools, data, and technology to bring broadband infrastructure to life efficiently, intelligently, and at scale.
https://www.aquila.us/
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level GIS Technician to join our team. This role supports the planning, design, construction, and documentation of fiber optic infrastructure projects. You'll work closely with network engineers, drafters, and construction teams to ensure accurate spatial data management and as-built documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
GIS Data Management & Analysis
- Collect, validate, and maintain geospatial data for fiber optic networks using ArcGIS PRO, ArcGIS Online, Vetro Fiber Maps, and home-grown systems
- Create and update digital maps showing fiber routes, conduit paths, splice points, and network nodes
- Perform spatial analysis to support route planning and network optimization
- Ensure data integrity across multiple datasets and coordinate systems
Drafting & Design Support
- Assist in creating construction drawings and GIS layers for fiber optic network designs
- Convert field survey data into digital formats for engineering review
- Prepare plot-ready maps for permitting, construction, and client deliverables
- Maintain version control for all design documents and spatial data
Construction Tracking & As-Builts
- Track construction progress against approved designs using field data collection tools
- Document field changes and update as-built data to reflect actual installed conditions
- Coordinate with field crews to verify construction progress
Quality Assurance
- Review GIS data for accuracy, completeness, and consistency
- Identify and resolve data discrepancies between design and field conditions
- Participate in QA/QC processes for all deliverables
Qualifications
Required
- 0–2 years of experience in GIS, drafting, or related technical role
- Familiarity with GPS/GNSS equipment and field data collection methods
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and construction documents
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel to field sites as needed
Preferred
- Experience with fiber optic telecommunications or utility industry
- Knowledge of ESRI Utility Network or Network Analyst extensions
- Familiarity with fiber optic terminology (splicing, OTDR, conduit, manholes, handholes)
- Experience with mobile GIS apps (ArcGIS Field Maps, Collector, Survey123)
- Understanding of local permitting and regulatory requirements
- Certification in GIS fundamentals (GISP pathway, ESRI technical certifications)
- Basic understanding of CAD software (AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar)
- Proficiency with ArcGIS Desktop/ArcGIS Pro or QGIS
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATION For:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, Civil Engineering, Surveying, or related field
- Experience with fiber network design, OSP construction methods, or utility mapping.
- Exposure to aerial and underground engineering standards.
- Familiarity with data analysis, scripting, or expression building within GIS environments.
- Demonstrated ability to take initiative, solve problems independently, and adapt to new tools or challenges.
- Interest in leadership growth—high-performing analysts will have a clear path to advancement.
- Familiarity with other business related software like Microsoft 365, Slack, Dropbox, Webex, FileMaker Pro, and MacOS.
Why Join Aquila
- Opportunity to help build real broadband infrastructure that connects communities.
- Collaborative, innovation-driven environment with strong technical mentorship.
- Flexible remote work with future hybrid options at our new Indiana headquarters.
- Competitive compensation and benefits with performance-based advancement opportunities.
- A culture that values initiative, craftsmanship, and long-term professional growth.
How to Apply
Apply via our links on career websites (really, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, etc)
We look forward to meeting driven individuals who are ready to help us build the systems — and the networks — of tomorrow.