VDOT Program Manager - Data and GIS Governance

The Associate Program Manager for Data and GIS Governance plays a critical role within VDOT’s enterprise data management initiatives. This position drives the strategy, coordination, and execution of data governance, GIS governance, and master data management activities across a large, complex organization. The role ensures VDOT’s data assets are high-quality, well managed, properly stewarded, and effectively leveraged to support enterprise decision-making, operational efficiency, and long-term digital transformation goals.

Application

Interested candidates should submit an updated resume and required candidate information for consideration. No specific submission deadline was provided in the requisition.

Job Description

The Associate Program Manager for Data and GIS Governance will support VDOT’s Business Integrated Solutions Division (BISD) Data Program by leading enterprise data governance, data lifecycle management, data quality remediation, GIS governance, and master data management initiatives. The ideal candidate brings seasoned experience managing enterprise data programs within large public or private organizations and can translate complex data concepts into actionable strategies for both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Proficiency with the ArcGIS platform and related tools is desired to support VDOT’s geospatial data ecosystem.

Responsibilities

Data Governance & Master Data Management

• Participate in VDOT’s enterprise data governance framework to promote consistency, accountability, and effective data stewardship.
• Oversee master data management efforts supporting mission-critical datasets.
• Develop and implement governance mechanisms, standards, and sustainable processes across a complex enterprise environment.
• Facilitate cross-functional working groups to align stakeholders on data priorities, policies, and governance objectives.

Data Lifecycle & Documentation

• Champion data lifecycle best practices from data creation and storage through archival.
• Ensure data lifecycle practices align with applicable regulatory, operational, and security requirements.
• Manage and mature metadata standards, data dictionaries, classification systems, and data documentation practices.
• Promote consistent and sustainable data management processes across business and technical teams.

Data Quality

• Lead strategies to identify, remediate, and enhance data quality across enterprise datasets.
• Collaborate with business units, technical teams, and subject matter experts to address data quality challenges.
• Design scalable processes and governance mechanisms that support long-term data quality improvements.

GIS & Technology Governance

• Provide strategic direction for geospatial governance and the use of GIS capabilities within enterprise processes.
• Support effective utilization of the ArcGIS platform and related geospatial tools.
• Help integrate GIS capabilities into broader enterprise data management and business processes.
• Support adoption of emerging data tools, technologies, and platforms to advance VDOT’s data-driven objectives.

Communication & Program Coordination

• Communicate complex data governance and management concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop training materials, guidance documentation, and governance communications.
• Provide strategic guidance and actionable insights to stakeholders and leadership.
• Support executive-level and cross-functional engagement related to enterprise data initiatives.

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 8 years of experience in data quality remediation and enhancement.
• At least 8 years of experience in data lifecycle management.
• At least 8 years of experience in data governance.
• Extensive experience leading enterprise data programs within a large organization.
• Deep understanding of data governance principles, frameworks, and industry best practices.
• Proven ability to manage the full data lifecycle within complex organizational structures.
• Expertise in metadata management, data quality enhancement, and sustainable data documentation processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to design scalable processes and governance mechanisms.
• Ability to translate abstract or technically complex concepts into approachable, actionable insights.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for executive-level and cross-functional engagement.
• Must physically reside within the United States for the duration of the assignment due to Commonwealth of Virginia security policies prohibiting offshore IT contractors.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship, now or in the future.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience with the ArcGIS platform.
• At least 5 years of experience with Safe Software FME.
• Experience supporting data governance and GIS initiatives within a large public-sector or private-sector organization.
• Experience supporting enterprise digital transformation and data modernization initiatives.

Benefits

Compensation

• This is a 1099 Contract role.
• Pay Rate: $70 – $90 per hour

Schedule

• Assignment period: September 28, 2026 through June 30, 2027.
• Assignment duration: Approximately 9 months.
• Hybrid work arrangement.
• Contractors are required to work on-site three days per week.
• On-site work is required at the VDOT Richmond, Virginia location.
• Contractors are responsible for securing parking through VDOT’s Parking Management Office or independently.

Work Location

• Richmond, VA
• This is a hybrid position requiring three on-site days per week.
• Contractors are responsible for securing parking through VDOT’s Parking Management Office or independently.