Geographic Information Systems Specialists Job Description: Tasks, Required Skills, Education, Career Outlook and Salary
Submitted by: Cheska Davenport
Job Overview: Geographic information systems (GIS) specialists are persons who concentrate on the scientific theory of geographic information and analysis. They usually research and come up with new geographic information systems and applications by means of combining computer graphics, high speed communications and artificial intelligence for mapping, storage, control and manipulation, as well as the retrieval of geographic data.
Education, Knowledge and Training Required: In order to become a successful GIS specialist, one should have a bachelor’s degree or a higher field of educational attainment in geography. Higher studies usually include advanced classes in GIS, planning, computer science, and engineering. They may also take up specialized training and certificate programs in GIS so that they can acquire technical knowledge in GIS systems technology and software. In these programs, studies in ArcVIew, ArcInfo and AutoCAD systems are pursued for proficiency purposes. GIS specialists are also faced with report writing and analysis courses, technical support as well as teaching and training procedures.
Skills and Abilities: GIS specialists must have the knack of using computer systems and keeping themselves updated with various technological developments which concern their work, such as new software and hardware applications. They should have the eye for detail, and must be capable of working with others as part of a team. They should also be capable of meeting strict deadlines, explain their findings properly in front of others, and be committed to lifelong study and learning.
Tasks: GIS is a type of computer system that is used to store, manipulate, assemble and display geographically referenced information. Specialists work by using this computer technology for the development of mapmaking techniques together with massive databases. They catalogue data according to location, and these are analyzed by means of a map view rather than a list.
The job of GIS specialists is to use GIS systems to store and updated physical and geographic data, census information, demographics and epidemiology, depending on their field of specialty. A lot of industries are in great need of GIS systems, from personal use to consumer electronics and even urban and regional planning, thus the need of GIS specialists continues to rise. GIS specialists operate systems to show two or three-dimensional maps of a region including its natural and human features, such as land and water use, housing and population distribution, recreational areas and commercial industries and establishments. These systems are used in order for other specialists to simulate growth information and patterns of people, natural resources and other factors that affect the environment.
Earnings and Job Outlook: At present, GIS specialists earn an average of $46,581 per year, depending on their field of expertise and skills. Most of them are employed by colleges and universities as well as private establishments, while a number of them are found in state and government agencies. More seasoned GIS specialist earn higher, mainly because of their knowledge about present technological advances in the systems they use.
Cheska Davenport is a career search strategist who focuses on creating power resumes and providing job search advice that aim to help individuals achieve their target goals in the job market.
Latest Articles about: Careers
1: College Mathematics Professors: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook2: Mathematics Teacher: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
3: Medical Assistant: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
4: Mathematicians: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
5: Medical Ethicist: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Word Count: 509 Date: Tue, 26 Oct 2010 Time: 5:42 AM
Previous - Geographers Job Description: Duties, Knowledge and Training Requirements, Job Information | Next - Geriatric Psychiatrists Job Description: Career Information, Training and Required Knowledge, Employment Outlook and Salary Expectations