Geographic Information Systems Specialists
At a Glance
- Use computers to create maps
- May use historical or social data
- Have a bachelor's degree
- Work indoors most of the time
Career summary
Geographic information systems (GIS) specialists use computers to create maps.GIS specialists use geographic information systems (GIS) databases to interpret and display data. They interpret and visualize data to show relationships, patterns, and trends.
GIS databases allow GIS specialists to:
- Gather and store data
- Model and analyze data
- Display data graphically
GIS specialists work with cartographers and GIS technicians. They often work for government agencies, utility companies, and consulting and surveying firms.
GIS maps often are used to relate non-graphic information to places. This information can be used for many purposes, such as:
- Planning urban growth
- Managing forests
- Routing 911 vehicles
- Assessing groundwater contamination
GIS specialists can add varying levels of geographic information to a map. Some maps require basic physical information, such as roads, rivers, and boundaries. Other maps require detailed utility information, such as the location of sewer, gas, and power lines.
GIS specialists can specialize in one of the following areas:
Analyze needs and data
Analysts interview users to determine what information is needed. They select the types of data and maps that will meet user needs. For example, city planners may use GIS data to lower gasoline consumption by building roads in the right places. Others use GIS data to find the best locations for solar and wind energy sites.
Program computers
Programmers write computer programs of the analysts' designs. Programmers create menus and commands to help users.
Digitize maps
Digitizers convert existing map coordinates into computer-readable form. They put existing maps on digitizer tables and place a cursor over various points to enter data into computers. Digitizers also code data that will appear in layers over the basic map of the earth's surface.
Related careers
This career is part of the Architecture and Construction cluster of careers.
Related careers include:
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Computer Network Architects
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Database Administrators
- Electronics Engineering Technologists
- Energy Engineers
- Engineering Technicians
- Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists
- Precision Agriculture Technicians
- Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
- Science Technicians
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
- Web Developers
Military careers
Job duties
Task list
The following list of tasks is specific to geographic information systems specialists.
- Design graphics using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data and software.
- Maintain or modify existing GIS databases.
- Analyze GIS data for spatial relationships. Use GIS data to display results, using maps, graphs, and charts.
- Enter data into GIS databases, using special techniques.
- Review data for currency, accuracy, usefulness, and quality.
- Perform geospatial modeling, using advanced techniques and software.
- Integrate separate databases so that users can use information from both.
- Design complex maps, using GIS.
- Provide technical support to users or clients of GIS databases or software.
- Interpret aerial photographs. Transfer or digitize photographs into software.
- Confer with other specialists, technicians, and engineers about software and data.
- Keep skills and knowledge up to date through attending conferences, reading literature, and continuing education.
- Recommend changes or upgrades to equipment and software, when needed.
Common work activities
Geographic information systems specialists perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.
- Use computers
- Analyze data or information
- Process information
- Get information needed to do the job
- Update and use job-related knowledge
- Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
- Think creatively
- Explain the meaning of information to others
- Make decisions and solve problems
- Identify objects, actions, and events
- Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
- Organize, plan, and prioritize work
- Document and record information
- Establish and maintain relationships
- Evaluate information against standards
- Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
- Develop goals and strategies
- Judge the value of objects, services, or people
- Schedule work and activities
- Communicate with people outside the organization
- Teach others
- Coach others
Work requirements
Working conditions
In a typical work setting, geographic information systems specialists:
Interpersonal relationships
- Have a medium level of social interaction.
- Are somewhat responsible for the work done by others.
- Communicate with others primarily via e-mail, telephone, and in person.
- Usually work as part of a team.
Physical work conditions
- Usually work indoors, but may occasionally work outside.
Work performance
- Must be extremely accurate when performing the job.
- Usually do not consult a supervisor before making decisions or setting tasks and goals.
- Make decisions weekly that affect other people or the reputation of their employer.
- Must meet strict weekly deadlines.
- Repeat the same physical and mental tasks throughout the day.
Hours/travel
- Work schedules are generally established.
- May work overtime when trying to meet a deadline.
- May travel to construction sites.
Physical demands
Geographic information systems specialists frequently:
- Sit for long periods of time.
- Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
- Repeat the same movements.
It is important for geographic information systems specialists to be able to:
- See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
- Understand the speech of another person.
- Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
- Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
It is not as important, but still necessary, for geographic information systems specialists to be able to:
- See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
- See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
- Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
- Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
- Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
- Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
- Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
- Determine the distance between objects.
Skills and abilities
Geographic information systems specialists need to:
Communicate
- Read and understand work-related materials.
- Understand written information.
- Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
- Understand spoken information.
- Write clearly so other people can understand.
- Listen to others and ask questions.
Reason and problem solve
- Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
- Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
- Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
- Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
- Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
- Develop rules that group items in various ways.
- Recognize the nature of a problem.
- Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
- Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
- Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
Use math and science
- Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
- Use math skills to solve problems.
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.
Manage oneself, people, time, and things
- Manage the time of self and others.
- Check how well one is learning or doing something.
Work with people
- Change behavior in relation to others' actions.
Perceive and visualize
- Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
- Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
- Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
Education and training
Educational programs
The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.
Programs of study directly related to this occupation
Other programs of study to consider
Training
To work as a geographic information systems specialist, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
- have a bachelor's degree in geography.
Education after high school
Almost all GIS specialists have a bachelor's degree in geography or computer science. As a student you should take courses in geography, economics, and history. Courses in statistics and database management are also important. You also will need training in drafting and computer cartography.
Work experience
Working for a geographer is good experience for this field.
On-the-job training
Some students complete an internship while in school. This is important work experience for finding a job.
Military training
Some branches of the military train people to be international relations officers. While this is not the same as being a geographic information systems specialists, many of the skills transfer between jobs. You need at least a bachelor's degree to enter this military occupation. The length of training depends on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.
Helpful high school courses
In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum may be different from your state's graduation requirements . Geospatial information scientists and technologists need a strong background in math and science. Try to take math classes through Trigonometry and science classes through Physics.
You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:
- Computer Applications
- Computer Programming
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Geography
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.
Things to know
Employers look for specialists who have a bachelor's degree in geography or a related field and work experience. Employers require specialists to be extremely proficient in using GIS software and databases. Employers look for applicants with strong technical, computing, and communication skills. Work experience or coursework in the particular field of the employer, such as urban planning or agriculture, is often helpful in getting hired.
Employers may also look for applicants who are certified in using GIS.
Job listings
Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.
To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .
Wages
Surveying and mapping technicians (SOC 17-3031)
| Location |
Pay Period | |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% |
25% |
Median |
75% |
90% |
||
| Washington | Hourly | $16.18 | $18.24 | $24.28 | $29.61 | $35.37 |
| Monthly | $2,804 | $3,161 | $4,208 | $5,131 | $6,130 | |
| Yearly | $33,660 | $37,940 | $50,510 | $61,580 | $73,570 | |
| Bellingham | Hourly | $16.47 | $20.57 | $26.65 | $31.75 | $37.42 |
| Monthly | $2,854 | $3,565 | $4,618 | $5,502 | $6,485 | |
| Yearly | $34,255 | $42,780 | $55,414 | $66,049 | $77,833 | |
| Bremerton-Silverdale | Hourly | $19.87 | $22.13 | $26.68 | $33.79 | $38.30 |
| Monthly | $3,443 | $3,835 | $4,624 | $5,856 | $6,637 | |
| Yearly | $41,336 | $46,038 | $55,485 | $70,284 | $79,663 | |
| Kennewick-Richland | Hourly | $16.88 | $18.78 | $28.07 | $33.78 | $38.57 |
| Monthly | $2,925 | $3,255 | $4,865 | $5,854 | $6,684 | |
| Yearly | $35,115 | $39,076 | $58,386 | $70,253 | $80,226 | |
| Olympia-Tumwater | Hourly | $17.09 | $20.04 | $28.09 | $35.27 | $42.64 |
| Monthly | $2,962 | $3,473 | $4,868 | $6,112 | $7,390 | |
| Yearly | $35,554 | $41,690 | $58,430 | $73,378 | $88,699 | |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | Hourly | $16.50 | $18.36 | $24.08 | $29.77 | $34.67 |
| Monthly | $2,859 | $3,182 | $4,173 | $5,159 | $6,008 | |
| Yearly | $34,322 | $38,203 | $50,084 | $61,919 | $72,127 | |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | Hourly | $15.94 | $17.49 | $25.21 | $28.42 | $30.34 |
| Monthly | $2,762 | $3,031 | $4,369 | $4,925 | $5,258 | |
| Yearly | $33,165 | $36,381 | $52,437 | $59,115 | $63,105 | |
| Vancouver | Hourly | $18.34 | $23.09 | $27.43 | $31.06 | $36.77 |
| Monthly | $3,178 | $4,001 | $4,754 | $5,383 | $6,372 | |
| Yearly | $38,147 | $48,013 | $57,043 | $64,601 | $76,488 | |
| Wenatchee | Hourly | $13.01 | $19.87 | $27.95 | $34.89 | $41.87 |
| Monthly | $2,255 | $3,443 | $4,844 | $6,046 | $7,256 | |
| Yearly | $27,066 | $41,330 | $58,137 | $72,573 | $87,087 | |
| United States | Hourly | $13.15 | $16.49 | $21.34 | $28.00 | $35.63 |
| Monthly | $2,279 | $2,858 | $3,698 | $4,852 | $6,175 | |
| Yearly | $27,360 | $34,300 | $44,380 | $58,250 | $74,110 | |
Salaries vary with education level, specialty, and employer. The individual's specialty and level of experience and responsibility also affect wages. Those who have supervisory duties usually earn higher wages.
GIS specialists who work full time often receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. Some employers also provide a retirement plan.
National wage information is not available specifically for geographic information systems specialists. However, they are part of the larger group of "surveying and mapping technicians."
Employment and outlook
Washington outlook
The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.
Surveying and Mapping Technicians (SOC 17-3031)
| Location | Current employment | Growth over 10 years | Annual openings | |
| This occupation |
All occupations |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 1,424 | 6.7% | 16.1% | 173 |
| Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan Counties | 54 | 5.6% | 13.4% | 6 |
| Asotin, Columbia, Ferry, Garfield, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Stevens, Walla Walla, and Whitman Counties | 22 | 9.1% | 8.6% | 2 |
| Benton and Franklin Counties | 37 | -2.7% | 15.0% | 3 |
| Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties | 96 | 4.2% | 11.9% | 11 |
| Clark, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum Counties | 128 | 11.7% | 15.2% | 17 |
| Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston Counties | 139 | 12.9% | 14.1% | 19 |
| Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties | 83 | 6.0% | 14.6% | 10 |
| King County | 575 | 7.5% | 19.6% | 71 |
| Kittitas, Klickitat, Skamania, and Yakima Counties | 28 | 10.7% | 13.8% | 3 |
| Pierce County | 64 | 7.8% | 15.2% | 8 |
| Snohomish County | 62 | 6.5% | 12.4% | 7 |
| Spokane County | 88 | 11.4% | 13.9% | 11 |
| United States | 56,800 | 5.5% | 5.2% | 7,200 |
National employment
Major employers:
- Architectural and engineering firms
- Federal and local government agencies
- Electric companies
National outlook
Demand is expected to grow as fast as average for this occupation. Advances in technology increase productivity and job openings will arise from the need to replace workers who leave this occupation. Due to budget cuts, opportunities may be more limited for government jobs.
Employment and outlook information is not available specifically for geographic information systems specialists. However, they are part of the larger group of "surveying and mapping technicians."
Other resources
(from the American Association of Geographers)
American Association of Geographers
1710 - 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
202.234.1450
American Geosciences Institute
4220 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22302
703.379.2480
American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Career Brochure
Careers in Cartography and GIS
(from the Cartography and Geographic Information Society)
GIS Lounge - Career Resources
National Society of Professional Surveyors
5119 Pegasus Court, Suite Q
Frederick, MD 21704
240.439.4615
US Geological Survey
Washington State Division of Geology and Earth Resources
References
Career cluster
Career path
- Investigative (Science)
O*Net occupation
O*Net job zone
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed. A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.
DOT occupation
Strong Interest Inventory
- Geographer
Holland occupational cluster
- Investigative/Realistic/Conventional
COPSystem
- Technology Professional
- Technology Skilled