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Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
Overview
Salary
Demand
Core Tasks
Technology Skills
Tools Used
Top 10 Knowledge Required
Top 10 Skills
Top 10 Abilities
Top 10 Work Activities
Detailed Work Activities
Majors
Interests
Top 10 Work Styles
Work Values
Related Careers
Overview
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Experience
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Education
Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Examples
Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, chemists, art directors, and cost estimators.
Assist scientists or related professionals in building, maintaining, modifying, or using geographic information systems (GIS) databases. May also perform some custom application development or provide user support.
Salary Salary
Salary at 10th Percentile: $45K
Salary at 25th Percentile: $65K
Median Salary: $92K
Salary at 75th Percentile: $122K
Salary at 90th Percentile: $152K
Demand
Core Tasks
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.
Design or coordinate the development of integrated Geographic Information Systems (GIS) spatial or non-spatial databases.
Perform geospatial data building, modeling, or analysis, using advanced spatial analysis, data manipulation, or cartography software.
Perform integrated or computerized Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analyses to address scientific problems.
Provide technical support to users or clients regarding the maintenance, development, or operation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases, equipment, or applications.
Select cartographic elements needed for effective presentation of information.
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.
Create, analyze, report, convert, or transfer data, using specialized applications program software.
Document, design, code, or test Geographic Information Systems (GIS) models, internet mapping solutions, or other applications.
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.
Apply three-dimensional (3D) or four-dimensional (4D) technologies to geospatial data to allow for new or different analyses or applications.
Technology Skills
Technology
Example
Hot Technology
Tools Used
Tool
Example
Top 10 Knowledge Required
Geography
95%
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Computers and Electronics
90%
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language
81%
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mathematics
78%
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Design
68%
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Customer and Personal Service
63%
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Engineering and Technology
62%
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Education and Training
61%
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Administration and Management
58%
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Clerical
53%
Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
Top 10 Skills
Reading Comprehension
77%
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Critical Thinking
75%
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving
72%
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Speaking
72%
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Listening
70%
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.
Writing
70%
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Learning
69%
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Judgment and Decision Making
69%
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Mathematics
65%
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Science
65%
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Top 10 Abilities
Inductive Reasoning
79%
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Written Comprehension
78%
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Near Vision
77%
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Deductive Reasoning
75%
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Oral Expression
75%
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Oral Comprehension
74%
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Information Ordering
73%
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Problem Sensitivity
73%
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
Category Flexibility
70%
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Speech Clarity
70%
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Top 10 Work Activities
Interacting With Computers
99%
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Analyzing Data or Information
93%
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Getting Information
90%
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Processing Information
90%
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
89%
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
85%
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
83%
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
80%
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Thinking Creatively
79%
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Documenting/Recording Information
76%
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Detailed Work Activities
Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information.
Prepare analytical reports.
Create databases to store electronic data.
Update computer database information.
Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
Design software applications.
Write computer programming code.
Evaluate data quality.
Develop scientific or mathematical models.
Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables.
Prepare data for analysis.
Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.
Test software performance.
Design computer modeling or simulation programs.
Document technical specifications or requirements.
Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
Develop models of information or communications systems.
Recommend changes to improve computer or information systems.
Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.
Train others in computer interface or software use.
Analyze Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data for use in green applications.
Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
Design integrated computer systems.
Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.
Majors based on the broader career Computer Occupations, All Other
Major
Interests
Investigative
91%
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Realistic
74%
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Conventional
67%
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Artistic
29%
Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
Enterprising
29%
Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
Social
17%
Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.
Top 10 Work Styles
Attention to Detail
94%
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Analytical Thinking
91%
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Independence
87%
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Integrity
87%
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Dependability
85%
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Initiative
84%
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Innovation
84%
Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
Adaptability/Flexibility
82%
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Persistence
82%
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Cooperation
80%
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Work Values
Achievement
77%
Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
Independence
77%
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Working Conditions
68%
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Recognition
65%
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
Support
62%
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Relationships
58%
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
