Geospatial Information Scientists & Technologists
Also called: Geographic Information System Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Coordinator (GIS Coordinator), Geographic Information Systems Specialist (GIS Specialist)
What they do:
Research or develop geospatial technologies. May produce databases, perform applications programming, or coordinate projects. May specialize in areas such as agriculture, mining, health care, retail trade, urban planning, or military intelligence.
On the job, you would:
- Produce data layers, maps, tables, or reports, using spatial analysis procedures or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems.
- Provide technical expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to clients or users.
- Perform computer programming, data analysis, or software development for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications, including the maintenance of existing systems or research and development for future enhancements.
Knowledge
Math and Science
- geography
- arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Engineering and Technology
- computers and electronics
- design
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Education and Training
- teaching and course design
Skills
Basic Skills
- reading work related information
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
- thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
- figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Abilities
Verbal
- read and understand what is written
- communicate by speaking
Ideas and Logic
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
- use rules to solve problems
Math
- choose the right type of math to solve a problem
- add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Attention to Detail
- Analytical Thinking
- Integrity
- Dependability
- Adaptability/Flexibility
- Cooperation
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Data base user interface and query software
- National Land Cover Database NLCD
- Structured query language SQL
Analytical or scientific software
- SAS
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Map creation software
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Geographic information system GIS software
Education
bachelor's degree or
master's degree
usually needed
master's degree
usually needed
Job Outlook
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
$88,510
$46,240
$139,390
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