GIS Technician
Water Management Alliance (WMA) / Upper Ouse Water Management Board
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the team at the Water Management Alliance (WMA) - a group of Internal Drainage Boards (IDBs) responsible for managing flood risk and land drainage across the region.
The role is based in Stewartby, Bedfordshire and will primarily support the Upper Ouse Water Management Board (a WMA Member IDB).
Salary & Benefits
- £28,000 – £35,000 (dependent on experience)
- Car allowance
- Local Government Pension Scheme
About the Role
As a GIS Technician, you will play a vital role in supporting the delivery of the Board’s objectives. You will be responsible for the precise management and storage of spatial data, ensuring that information flows seamlessly between teams to aid the effective running of the Board.
Working closely with Operational and Technical (Catchment) Services, you will be the point of contact for geographical information, helping to translate complex data into actionable insights for flood risk and land drainage management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Data Management & Digitisation: You will digitise rating polygons, IDB assets, and drainage infrastructure, linking spatial data to relational databases (such as maintenance job cards) to ensure our records are accurate and up to date.
- System Development: You will manage and develop our online mapping systems using ESRI ArcGIS Online, supporting dynamic mobile working for our teams in the field.
- Information Support: Beyond mapping, you will support internal information networks, upload data sets to the group’s intranet, and help develop dynamic forms and website content.
- Compliance & Enquiries: You will assist in managing data requests (GDPR/FOI) and liaise with third parties such as DEFRA and the Environment Agency to supply essential electronic information.
What we are looking for:
We are seeking a methodical individual with a keen eye for detail. You should have experience working with geospatial databases and office-based software (Microsoft Access, Excel). Ideally, you will be familiar with Arc-View GIS or AutoCAD, and while not essential, knowledge of Python or JavaScript would be a distinct advantage. As you will be supporting multiple member boards, the ability to prioritise workloads and communicate technical information clearly is essential.
The closing date for receipt of applications is noon on 31 May 2026.
For an informal discussion about the WMA / UOWMB and this position please contact Phillip Lovesey (Area Manager) on 01234 767995.
We look forward to receiving your application.
About Upper Ouse Water Management Board
The Upper Ouse Water Management Board is an amalgamated statutory body former from the merger of three individual Boards, formerly known collectively as the Bedford Group of Drainage Boards.
The Board is responsible for local stormwater management, which it achieves through the maintenance and improvement of watercourses and the adoption of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). Additionally, the Board provides technical expertise and guidance to local authorities and developers within the Town and Country planning process.
The Upper Ouse Water Management Board is an amalgamated statutory body former from the merger of three individual Boards, formerly known collectively as the Bedford Group of Drainage Boards. The Board is responsible for local stormwater management, which it achieves through the maintenance and improvement of watercourses and the adoption of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). Additionally, the Board provides technical expertise and guidance to local authorities and developers within the Town and Country planning process.
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