Systems Specialist (AI or GIS)

Overview

The City of Ontario has two exciting opportunities for IT professionals to play vital roles in advancing innovative projects in Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Under the direction of Systems Analysts, Systems Specialists perform a wide range of analytical work supporting citywide technology, as well as apply their expertise to help departments with defining information system needs, assisting with system integrations, performing functional and technical maintenance and support, and assisting with project implementations.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidates are IT professionals eager to grow in either GIS or AI.

• For the GIS role, the successful candidate brings a basic understanding of geospatial concepts, experience with tools such as ArcGIS or QGIS, and strong attention to detail.
• For the AI role, the successful candidate has a solid foundation in computer or data science and an interest in machine learning and Generative AI tools and concepts.
• Across both roles, ideal candidates demonstrate curiosity, problem-solving ability, adaptability, clear communication, and a collaborative mindset.
• Candidates show initiative, a willingness to learn new technologies, and a commitment to contributing to innovative projects.
• Successful candidates will be role models for the City’s Customer Service Philosophy — Empathy, Respect, and Problem Solving.
• Candidates will emulate the qualities of a “Five Tool Player” — Leader, Thinker, Operator, Communicator, and Public Servant.

The Information Technology Agency

Our mission at the Information Technology Agency is to revolutionize business operations, pushing the boundaries of innovation to achieve exceptional outcomes.

• Information Technology touches every corner of City operations, boosting efficiency and elevating customer service.
• The agency provides 24/7, 365-day support for technological solutions serving all City departments, including Ontario International Airport.
• The information infrastructure connects networks, telecommunications, servers, computers, software, and mobile and field equipment.
• The team operates with integrity, professionalism, and strong collaboration.
• A commitment to consistent and reliable IT services is the foundation of the agency.
• The City of Ontario Information Technology Agency invites you to join this transformative journey and help shape a brighter, technology-driven future.

About the City of Ontario

The City of Ontario is a dynamic, leading community in the Inland Empire offering a variety of full-time, part-time, and volunteer opportunities.

• Ontario is recognized as a progressive City providing solid leadership to residents and the business community.

• The City provides a full range of services, including:

  • Police
  • Fire
  • Management Services
  • Community Life & Culture
  • Community Development
  • Economic Development
  • Public Works
  • Ontario Municipal Utilities Company

• Approximately 1,517 full-time equivalent employees support the shared goal of delivering excellent service to the community.

Examples of Essential Functions

The essential functions typically performed by the Systems Specialist include:

• Identifies improvements and enhancements (utilizing GIS or other technologies) to current systems based on business requirements.
• Researches and develops recommendations for implementing new automated solutions.
• Tests new software releases, patches, and updates; troubleshoots technical and functional problems.
• Provides guidance and support for a variety of citywide information technology systems and applications.
• Maintains and updates citywide systems and applications through programming or administrative tools.
• Trains functional users in efficient application operation and report writing.
• Supports digital exchange of data across multiple information management systems.
• Manipulates and analyzes data from database environments.
• Prepares and maintains documentation for systems, programs, and projects.
• Develops manuals describing installation and operating procedures for end users.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualification Guidelines

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university in AI, GIS, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

Experience

• Six (6) months of experience operating or supporting information management systems.
• Six (6) months of experience as an administrative intern or apprentice within the City of Ontario Information Technology Agency may satisfy experience requirements.

License

• Valid California Class C driver’s license with an acceptable driving record at the time of appointment and throughout employment.

Desirable Qualifications

Systems Specialist (AI)

• Exposure to developing, testing, or supporting AI solutions, including Generative AI and machine learning.
• Familiarity with training and refining models, prompt engineering, and output validation.
• Experience using SQL, Python, Excel, or Power BI for data analysis and visualization.
• Experience with APIs and agent protocols (e.g., MCP, A2A) for integrating AI with external systems such as Snowflake, Power BI, and GIS.
• Knowledge of ethical AI, data governance, and responsible data management.
• Certification in AI, Data Science, or Machine Learning from an accredited institution.

Systems Specialist (GIS)

• Experience with GIS software, particularly ESRI platforms.
• Knowledge of cartography principles, spatial analysis, and geospatial data management.
• Experience working with geospatial data such as shapefiles and geodatabases.
• Experience using geoprocessing tools and programming languages such as Python or SQL.
• Experience handling large datasets and creating clear data visualizations, including maps and charts.
• Experience using mobile GIS applications, field data collection, and remote sensing techniques.
• GIS certification from an accredited institution.

Background Investigation

• Candidates must successfully complete a background investigation conducted by the Ontario Police Department.