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 System (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/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, the ideal candidates demonstrate curiosity, problem-solving ability, adaptability, clear communication, and a collaborative mindset. They show initiative, a willingness to learn new technologies, and a commitment to contributing to innovative projects. Additionally, the successful candidates will be role models for the City’s Customer Service Philosophy– Empathy, Respect, and Problem Solving– and emulate the qualities of a "Five Tool Player"– Leader, Thinker, Operator, Communicator, and Public Servant.
Due to the high volume of applications anticipated for this recruitment, the following procedures will apply:
- The City reserves the right to limit the number of external applications accepted to the first one hundred (100) applications.
- Completed applications will be reviewed and only qualified applicants whose qualifications best meet or exceed the requirements of the position and needs of the City will be invited to participate further in the selection process.
- The Eligibility List will consist of both internal and external applicants who best meet or exceed the requirements and successfully complete any required selection processes.
- The hiring department has the discretion to consider internal applicants on the Eligibility list prior to considering all applicants on the Eligibility list.
Background Investigation
As part of their duties, the Systems Specialist may be assigned to work in the Ontario Police Department facilities or will have access to Police Department information systems. As a result, employment in this position is subject to the satisfactory completion of a background investigation conducted by the Ontario Police Department. This background investigation will include the passing of a polygraph test. Candidates may be disqualified from further consideration during the background investigation for a variety of reasons including but not limited to: an excessive number of traffic citations and/or collisions; arrests and/or convictions; a history of illegal substance abuse; poor credit history (factors include bankruptcy, foreclosures, liens, repossessions, and recency); or thefts from a previous employer. For clarification of any of the above disqualifying reasons, please call Police Department Background Unit at (909) 408-1820. The following list describes some areas that are covered in the background investigation:
- Your relatives, references, and acquaintances are asked to comment on your suitability for this position.
- The information supplied regarding your educational history is examined and verified.
- You must list a history of your residences.
- Your work history and experience are examined with regard to your dependability, relationships with fellow workers, trustworthiness, and general job performance.
- Military service records are subject to verification.
- The background investigation considers your management of personal finances (however, being in debt does not automatically disqualify you).
- Your criminal, driving, and insurance records are evaluated.
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. Every corner of City operations is touched by the transformative power of Information Technology, boosting efficiency and elevating customer service to new heights. 24/7, 365 days a year, we provide unwavering support for the technological solutions that drive the success of all City departments, including the bustling Ontario International Airport. Our information infrastructure forms the backbone of our operations, connecting networks, telecommunications, servers, computers, software, and the latest mobile and field equipment. Behind this cutting-edge technology stands a team fueled by integrity, professionalism, and an unyielding spirit of collaboration. Our commitment to delivering consistent and reliable IT services is the bedrock of our agency. Together, we're charting an exciting course towards a future where possibilities are limitless. Join us on this transformative journey as we embrace the challenges of the digital era and unleash the true potential of technology to shape a brighter tomorrow. The City of Ontario Information Technology Agency invites you to be a part of this inspiring journey!
The City of Ontario is a dynamic leading community in the Inland Empire with a variety of full-time and part-time employment and volunteer opportunities. Ontario enjoys the reputation of being a progressive City which provides solid leadership to its citizens and to the business community. The City provides a full range of services to the community including, but not limited to: Police, Fire, Management Services, Community Life & Culture, Community Development, Economic Development, Public Works and the Ontario Municipal Utilities Company. The City’s team is staffed with approximately 1,517 full-time equivalent diverse and talented employees who work to support a common goal of providing excellent service to the community.
The City’s vision for the future is very exciting, and we foresee tremendous growth within the years to come. We welcome you to view the City of Ontario’s 2025 State of the City video by clicking on the link below as well as the other links to learn more about the City:
State of the City The Ontario Plan
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Smart OntarioDowntown Ontario
Examples of Essential Functions:
The essential functions typically performed by the Systems Specialist include the following:
- Identifies improvements and enhancements (utilizing GIS or other technologies) to current systems based upon business requirements.
- Researches and develops recommendations for the implementation of 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 the use of the system/application's administrative functions.
- Trains functional users in efficient application operation and report writing.
- Supports digital exchange of data across various information management systems.
- Manipulates and analyzes data from database environments.
- Prepares and maintains documentation of systems, programs, and projects to describe program development, logic, coding, and correction.
- Develops manuals describing installation and operating procedures for end users.
- May perform 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.
NOTE: Proof of a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university in AI, GIS, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field must be provided by way of attachment to your online application or as an email attachment sent to the Hiring Agency Representative at, or before, time of the reference check process. Acceptable forms of proof include Unofficial Transcripts, Official Transcripts, Photos and/or Photocopies of Institutional Degree/Certifications.
Experience
Six (6) months of experience operating or supporting information management systems. Six (6) months experience working at an administrative intern or apprentice level within the City of Ontario Information Technology Agency would meet experience requirements.
License
Valid California Class C driver's license and an acceptable driving record at the time of appointment and throughout employment.
Desirable
Systems Specialist (AI)
Exposure to developing, testing, or supporting AI (including GenAI and/or ML) solutions. Familiarity with training and refining models for improved accuracy and performance, including prompt engineering and validation of outputs. Experience utilizing tools such as 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. Knowledgeable in 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’s platforms. Knowledge of cartography principles, spatial analysis, and geospatial data management. Experience working with geospatial data such as shapefiles and geodatabases. Experience utilizing geoprocessing tools and programming languages such as Python or SQL. Experience handling large datasets and creating clear data visualizations such as maps and charts. Experience utilizing mobile GIS apps for field data collection and remote sensing techniques to support effective spatial data analysis and integration. GIS certification from an accredited institution.
Background Investigation
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to successfully complete a background investigation conducted by the Ontario Police Department.
Supplemental Information:
How to Apply
To submit your application, please visit: Systems Specialist (AI or GIS) | Job Details tab | Career Pages
Apply online by clicking on the "Apply" link at the top of the job announcement. If this is the first time applying for a position using governmentjobs.com you will be prompted to create a new user account, otherwise log in with your user name and password. Your application and responses to any supplemental questions will be used to evaluate your qualifications for this position. It is suggested that your application include the following:
- List any relevant experience and education that demonstrates that you qualify for the position.
- List all periods of employment for at least the past 10 years, beginning with your most recent or present employer (including, if applicable, all employment with the City of Ontario).
- Separately list each position held, including different positions with the same employer.
A resume may be attached to your application but will not substitute for the proper completion of your application. Applications that are not properly completed may be rejected.
NOTE: Transcripts from colleges, universities or technical schools outside of the United States must be assessed for U.S. equivalency by a NACES educational credential evaluation service. Failure to provide a transcript or credential evaluation report will result in your application being rejected and you will not be able to continue in the selection process for this position.
Supplemental Questions
To complete your application for this position you will be prompted to respond to supplemental questions. This information will be used as part of the application screening and selection process and is designed to help you present your qualifications for this position. This may include a selection step in which your application and supplemental questions are reviewed and scored by a panel of raters familiar with this position.
Incomplete responses, false statements, omission, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Your responses should be consistent with the information provided on your application.
Please provide succinct, concise, descriptive, and detailed information for each question. If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question.
Email Notices
Email is the primary way that the Human Resources or Hiring Department will communicate with you. Please check your email account (including the SPAM folder) on a regular basis for any emails related to the application or selection process. Emails from the city of Ontario will come from "@ontarioca.gov" or "governmentjobs.com." If you change your email address after submitting your application please visit governmentjobs.com and update your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any additional questions regarding the application process, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.
