Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians

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Career Profile

Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians

What they do

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.

Also Called: Geographic Information System Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Administrator (GIS Administrator), Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Coordinator (GIS Coordinator), GIS Specialist (Geographic Information Systems Specialist), GIS Technician (Geographic Information Systems Technician), Resource Analyst, Geographic Information System Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Administrator (GIS Administrator), Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Coordinator (GIS Coordinator), GIS Specialist (Geographic Information Systems Specialist), GIS Technician (Geographic Information Systems Technician), Resource Analyst

Job Data & Employment

*National data provided by O*NET & BLS
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$55,940
Starting Salary (2025)
$116,580
Median Salary (2025)
8.2%
Projected Job Growth
435,370
Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Collect, compile, or integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, such as remote sensing or cartographic data for inclusion in map manuscripts.
Produce data layers, maps, tables, or reports, using spatial analysis procedures or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems.
Provide technical expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to clients or users.
Select cartographic elements needed for effective presentation of information.
Perform geospatial data building, modeling, or analysis, using advanced spatial analysis, data manipulation, or cartography software.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Independence
Integrity
Dependability
Innovation

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Complex Problem Solving
Speaking
Writing
Active Listening

Expected Knowledge

Geography
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
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Working with Computers
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
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 4

Considerable Preparation Needed

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.