Careers in Geographic Information Science

GIS has grown from a concept in the 1970's to a $6.9 Billion industry in 2001 (www.Daratech.com). Mapping and spatial analysis tools have entered virtually every segment of society, including utilities and urban management, emergency planning and response, forest management, food security, precision agriculture, ecological modeling, market research, and the like. GIS is no longer new; yet its horizons continue to expand.

Geographic information analysts have applied skills in the fields of Geodesy, Cartography, Remote Sensing, Spatial Analysis and Decision Science, and strong working knowledge of the Global Positioning System, GIS and Digital Image Processing software, Dynamic Modeling and Geostatistics. They are skilled in the problems of spatial georeferencing, error modeling and the propagation of uncertainty, the modeling of spatial processes, and procedures for multi-criteria and multi-objective decision making. In addition, they have the graphic communication and cartographic skills required for the production of effective map displays and geographic information presentations.

Where do GIS analysts work?

GIS analysts work in a wide range of settings, including:

• Environmental consulting firms
• Environmental research and advocacy organizations
• Government natural resource management agencies
• Urban and regional planning and development agencies
• Energy utility companies
• Mineral and petroleum exploration companies
• Market research firms
• Academic and educational institutions

What is the job market like?

The job market is excellent at all levels of expertise. GIS technicians typically graduate from a community college professional development program. However, GIS analysts typically have a university degree. A Bachelors program provides the basis for entry-level positions as a GIS analyst or research assistant. Lead positions in GIS analysis almost always require a minimum of a Master's degree. Those pursuing a Ph.D. in GIS are typically preparing for an academic career or a lead agency position in GIS analysis. To get a sense of the market, check out:

• Sample positions and salary ranges information
• "Current Positions" section of www.geosearch.com (select the GIS Applications Specialist section of Job Category Search) and www.gjc.org.
• Job descriptions for GIS trained professionals in 2001