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Geographic Information Systems Technician

Overview and Key Facts

Technician with digital geographic system
Education
Education
Bachelor's degree
Median Pay
Median Pay
$108,970
Job Growth
Job Growth
8.20%
(Above US Average)
Jobs in 2034
Jobs in 2034
510,500

What Do They Do?

A geographic information systems technician could...

 
Lava flow map
Create lava flow maps for researchers by integrating data from satellite images and GPS lava data loggers.
Ankle bracelet
Aid law enforcement by creating a mapping database to track criminals on probation wearing GPS anklets.
Screen shot of the Movebank databse
Create and maintain databases, like for this architecture planning development.
car GPS
Help drivers avoid frustration by updating GPS mapping applications to re-route around traffic jams.
 
Lava flow map Ankle bracelet Screen shot of the Movebank databse car GPS

Overview Listen to this section

Have you ever been in a new city and needed to figure out how to get from point A to point B? Have you ever tried to figure out the best time of the year to go on vacation so that you have good weather? Have you wondered what the terrain is like in a country across the world from you, or better yet, on a different planet? Many people in these situations turn to a map. Maps are important sources of information, and geographic information systems (GIS) technicians are the professionals who gather data from a variety of sources, store it in databases, and use those databases to make accurate maps. Because maps are used to convey all kinds of information, such as rainfall density or traffic patterns, GIS technicians must be knowledgeable in many different areas of science.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zgsi2bTKEV8

Do You Have the Skills and Characteristics of a Geographic Information Systems Technician?


  1. Reading Comprehension: ?
  2. Critical Thinking: ?
  3. Complex Problem Solving: ?
  4. Speaking: ?
  5. Writing: ?
More skills...

Core Tasks

Think about if you'd like the typical tasks a Geographic Information Systems Technician might do:
  • Produce data layers, maps, tables, or reports, using spatial analysis procedures or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems.
  • Design or prepare graphic representations of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, using GIS hardware or software applications.
  • Maintain or modify existing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases.
  • 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.
  • Enter data into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases, using techniques such as coordinate geometry, keyboard entry of tabular data, manual digitizing of maps, scanning or automatic conversion to vectors, or conversion of other sources of digital data.
  • Review existing or incoming data for currency, accuracy, usefulness, quality, or completeness of documentation.
  • Perform geospatial data building, modeling, or analysis, using advanced spatial analysis, data manipulation, or cartography software.
  • Design or coordinate the development of integrated Geographic Information Systems (GIS) spatial or non-spatial databases.
  • Perform integrated or computerized Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analyses to address scientific problems.
  • Select cartographic elements needed for effective presentation of information.
  • Provide technical support to users or clients regarding the maintenance, development, or operation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases, equipment, or applications.
  • Collect, compile, or integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, such as remote sensing or cartographic data for inclusion in map manuscripts.
  • Interpret aerial or ortho photographs.
  • Meet with clients to discuss topics such as technical specifications, customized solutions, or operational problems.
  • Document, design, code, or test Geographic Information Systems (GIS) models, internet mapping solutions, or other applications.
  • Create, analyze, report, convert, or transfer data, using specialized applications program software.
  • Confer with users to analyze, configure, or troubleshoot applications.
  • Design, program, or model Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications or procedures.
  • Develop specialized computer software routines, internet-based Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases, or business applications to customize geographic information.
  • Make recommendations regarding upgrades, considering implications of new or revised Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, equipment, or applications.
  • Assist users in formulating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) requirements or understanding the implications of alternatives.
  • Create visual representations of geospatial data, using complex procedures such as analytical modeling, three-dimensional renderings, or plot creation.
  • Transfer or rescale information from original photographs onto maps or other photographs.
  • Prepare training materials for, or make presentations to, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) users.
  • Conduct research, data analysis, systems design, or support for software such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or Global Positioning Systems (GPS) mapping software.
  • Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems.
  • Recommend procedures, equipment, or software upgrades to increase data accessibility or ease of use.

Salary & Job Openings

Median Salary (Yearly Pay)

Tap or scroll over map to see median salaries for each state

Future Jobs

Blast-Off:

How Will Geographic Information Systems Technician Jobs Grow by 2034?
Projected % Growth
Rapid growth
(10% or higher)
Much faster than average
(7% - 10%)
Faster than average
(5% - 7%)
About as fast as average
(3% - 5%)
Slower than average
(0% - 3%)
Decreasing
Average of all U.S. jobs (5.3%)
Geographic Information Systems Technician jobs (8.20%)
Source: https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-characteristics.htm

Steps to Get There: Becoming a Geographic Information Systems Technician

High School Subjects to Study

Aim to study the yellow-shaded subjects.
Math
Algebra 1
Geometry
Algebra 2
Pre-Calculus
Calculus
Statistics
Science
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Environmental Science
Physiology
Bio-Medical / Biotech
IT &
Engineering
Computer Science
Applied Technology
Drafting & CAD Training
Core
English
Foreign Language
Business
Psychology / Sociology

Career Pathway Listen to this section

GIS technicians should continue to take classes and participate in professional seminars in order to keep current in new technologies and practices in their field.

Education- Typical Degree Needed After High School Listen to this section

Degree
Post
high school credential
AA
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctoral or Professional Degree

Typical degree for an entry-level position: Bachelor's degree ? Types of Degrees and Credentials

The minimum degree required to gain an entry-level position as a GIS technician is a bachelor's degree in geographic information systems, geography, cartography, or related field. Candidates who have internships in cartography or GIS, or who have experience with mapping or surveying, have an edge when seeking employment.

Companies That Hire Geographic Information Systems Technicians

Try it Out with an Activity or Project

STEM Activities

STEM activities are fun hands-on explorations that usually take from 10 minutes to one hour and use readily available household or classroom materials while introducing you to STEM concepts common in this career.

Science Project Ideas

Project Ideas are in-depth STEM explorations that have a strong focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data suitable for investigating the scientific method or the engineering design process.

On the Job

Role Models

In this video, GIS analyst Josi Jenneskens explains that she pursued her interest in GIS because of her love of art and travel. She likes the creativity involved in making maps that help people make decisions and draw conclusions.
I’ve always liked geography, I liked traveling, I liked physical geography. I also have a creative side, so I wanted to do something a little bit creative, maybe a little artistic. So, I found GIS and it allows me to combine my love of geography and the artistic side. I get to make maps. And also, I discovered I really like analysis. 
Josi Jenneskens, GIS analyst

Nature of the Work

Geographic information systems (GIS) technicians are professionals who convert the information found in topographical maps, geographical surveys, satellite images, fieldwork, and other sources into data that is correlated to location. Because GIS technicians work with organizing and storing large amounts of data, they design and develop databases to house data. They work with scientists and clients to update GIS databases and analyze the data to find out how geographical elements relate. GIS technicians develop computer programs for their employers or clients that query GIS systems for pertinent data and correlations. They can also train their clients to use the computer programs or tools that they create. GIS technicians physically make maps to share the data that they have collected, either from the field, or from querying GIS systems. They share these maps with their employers and their clients.

GIS technicians and technologists are important in the newest ventures in outer space. Computer based insights collect and integrate information from different sources, to map terrain and properties of earth and other planets. GIS can help us map surfaces of celestial bodies, obtain data from unmanned missions, predict changes in mineral composition, and explore the existence of extra-terrestrial life.

GIS technicians work on projects across a wide spectrum. For example, GIS technicians are involved in creating navigation systems, real-estate mapping, military surveillance, and site selection for buildings. In order to be able to do their job well, GIS technicians must be familiar with GIS software and hardware tools. GIS technicians must be proficient at drafting, computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), SQL language, and ArcGIS (a suite of GIS software). They use large-format printers, scanners, and plotters.

Work Environment

GIS technicians are usually employed in clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated offices. They work with computers and automated mapping equipment. The work often involves long hours in front of a computer screen, using a keyboard and a mouse. Some GIS professionals collect data via fieldwork outdoors. GIS technicians generally work 40 hours a week. Longer hours and workweeks are not uncommon.

GIS technicians are employed in a variety of industries including the private sector, the military, and the federal government.

More Information

Ask Questions

Do you have a specific question about a career as a Geographic Information Systems Technician that isn't answered on this page? Post your question on the Science Buddies Ask an Expert Forum.

Additional Resources

The following page from ESRI shows how GIS information and software is used in different industries, from education to transportation to urban planning.

Sources

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