Geographic Information Systems Technician

Your Fit

Income

$109K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

9.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Geographic Information Systems Technician?

A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician specializes in using GIS technology to compile, analyze, and present spatial data. They play a key role in creating maps and visual representations of geographic data for various applications.

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Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Geographic Information Systems Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a Geographic Information Systems Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$53K per year	$76K per year	$109K per year	$148K per year	$177K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $60K above the national average.

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What does a Geographic Information Systems Technician do?

Work environment

GIS Technicians typically work in office settings, often within government agencies, engineering firms, or environmental organizations. Their work usually involves significant time on computers, analyzing data and creating visualizations, and may occasionally require fieldwork to gather data or verify mapping information.

Quick task list

Collects and analyzes geographic and spatial data.
Creates maps and graphic representations of data using GIS software.
Maintains and updates geographic databases.
Collaborates with other professionals on projects requiring spatial analysis.
Provides technical support to users of GIS technology.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Environmental GIS: Focusing on environmental applications such as conservation, pollution tracking, and resource management.
Urban Planning GIS: Applying GIS to urban development, zoning, and land use planning.
Geospatial Intelligence: Using GIS for security and defense purposes, including surveillance and threat analysis.
Remote Sensing: Specializing in the interpretation of satellite and aerial imagery.
Transportation GIS: Analyzing and visualizing transportation data for planning and management.

Description

GIS Technicians combine expertise in geography and technology to provide critical insights through spatial data analysis. They gather data from various sources including satellite imagery, GPS data, and field observations, and use GIS software to create maps and visualizations. These visualizations aid in decision-making across different sectors such as urban planning, environmental conservation, and public safety.

Their role demands strong analytical skills to interpret and integrate diverse data sets and proficiency with GIS software tools. GIS Technicians must also be detail-oriented to ensure accuracy in data collection and analysis. As technology evolves, they must stay current with the latest GIS technologies and methods.

Effective communication skills are essential, as GIS Technicians often work in multidisciplinary teams and need to present their findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. The ability to translate complex geographic data into understandable and actionable information is crucial.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to a wide range of important projects that have tangible impacts on communities and environments.
The intellectual challenge of solving problems through spatial analysis.
Working at the intersection of technology, geography, and data analysis.

You might make a good Geographic Information Systems Technician if you are...

Fascinated by maps and spatial data.
Skilled in problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Proficient in technology, particularly GIS software.
Detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in data analysis and mapping.
A strong communicator, capable of presenting complex information clearly.

Pros:

Diverse career opportunities in various sectors.
Engagement with cutting-edge technology in geospatial analysis.
Intellectual satisfaction from solving complex geographic problems.

Cons:

The need for continual learning to keep up with evolving GIS technologies.
Potentially extensive time spent working on computers, which may not suit all preferences.
Some roles may require fieldwork in various weather conditions and terrains.

How to become a Geographic Information Systems Technician

Typical education

Most GIS Technician roles require a bachelor's degree in geography, geomatics, surveying, or a related field, amounting to about 4 years of post-secondary education. Some positions might accept an associate degree with relevant experience.

High school preparation

Courses:

Geography to understand basic principles of physical and human geography.
Computer Science to build a foundation in software and data analysis.
Mathematics, particularly statistics, for data analysis skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in environmental clubs or groups.
Engaging in coding clubs or computer-based hobbies.
Volunteering for community mapping projects or local environmental assessments.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in geography, geomatics, environmental science, or a related field with a focus on GIS.
Gain practical experience through internships or part-time jobs in GIS-related roles.
Consider certifications in GIS technology and software, such as those offered by Esri.

More resources

Esri Training - Offers courses and certifications in GIS and Esri software.
GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) - Provides GIS professional certification.
American Association of Geographers - Offers resources and networking opportunities for geographers.
URISA - A professional organization for urban and regional information systems.

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