Geographic Information Systems Technician

Overview and Key Facts

What Do They Do?

A geographic information systems technician could...

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? 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.

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

1. Reading Comprehension: ? Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
2. Critical Thinking: ? Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
3. Complex Problem Solving: ? Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
4. Speaking: ? Talking to others to convey information effectively.
5. Writing: ? Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

6. Active Listening: ? Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
7. Judgment and Decision Making: ? Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
8. Active Learning: ? Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
9. Mathematics: ? Using mathematics to solve problems.
10. Science: ? Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

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.