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Career Details

15-1299.02 - Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians


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.


Key Facts
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Bright Outlook
Career Details
Green Job
Career Details
Current Employment
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Forecasted Employment
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Change in Employment
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Change in Employment %
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Tasks
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Tasks
The tasks listed below can be performed to prepare you for a career in this field.
Core
  • 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.
Generic
  • 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.
Supplemental
  • Apply three-dimensional (3D) or four-dimensional (4D) technologies to geospatial data to allow for new or different analyses or applications.
All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.
Knowledge
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Knowledge

The items listed below are organized into sections that contain knowledge useful for pursuing a career in this field. Each section also contains a "Percentage of Importance" statistic that shows how relevant an item is to the occupation.
 Geography
  • 94%
    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
  • 52%
    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.
 Law and Government
  • 52%
    Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
 Public Safety and Security
  • 51%
    Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.
Tools
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Tools
The tools listed below include machines, equipment, tools, and software that is useful for individuals who are interested in this career.
 Computer data input devices
  • Computer data input scanners
  • Digitizers
  • Portable data collectors
 Computer printers
  • Computer laser printers
  • Large-format plotters
  • Plotters
 Computers
  • Computer servers
  • Desktop computers
  • Laptop computers
  • Mainframe computers
  • Personal computers
 Cameras
  • Digital cameras
 Audio and visual equipment
  • Global positioning system GPS receivers
 Duplicating machines
  • Laser facsimile machines
  • Photocopying equipment
 Radar and sonar systems and components
  • Light detection and ranging LIDAR systems
  • Synthetic aperture radar SAR
 Personal communication devices
  • Multi-line telephone systems
All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.
Technology
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Technology
The technologies listed below include machines, equipment, tools, and software that is useful for individuals who are interested in this career.
 Data management and query software
  • ADO.NET
  • Autodesk Topobase
  • Data entry softwareHOT
  • dBASE
  • ESRI ArcEditor
  • Microsoft AccessHOT
  • Microsoft SQL ServerHOT
  • National Land Cover Database NLCD
  • PostgreSQLHOT
  • Relational database management softwareHOT
  • Relational database management system RDMS
  • SAP BusinessObjects Crystal Reports
  • Soil Survey Geographic SSURGO
  • State Soil Geographic STATSGO Database
  • Structured query language SQLHOT
  • TableauHOT
  • Teradata DatabaseHOT
 Content management software
  • Adobe Systems Adobe AcrobatHOT
  • Microsoft Office SharePoint Server MOSS
 Development software
  • Adobe Systems Adobe ActionScript
  • Autodesk MapGuide
  • C
  • C++HOT
  • Cascading Style Sheets CSSHOT
  • DrupalHOT
  • Ext JS
  • Extensible markup language XMLHOT
  • Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
  • Hypertext markup language HTMLHOT
  • IBM WebSphereHOT
  • JavaScriptHOT
  • LAMP Stack
  • List processing language LISP
  • Microsoft .NET FrameworkHOT
  • Microsoft ASP.NETHOT
  • Microsoft Visual BasicHOT
  • Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBAHOT
  • Microsoft Visual Basic Scripting Edition VBScriptHOT
  • Microsoft Visual C#
  • Microsoft Visual C++
  • Microsoft Visual StudioHOT
  • Oracle JavaHOT
  • Oracle JavaServer Pages JSPHOT
  • PHP: Hypertext PreprocessorHOT
  • Practical extraction and reporting language PerlHOT
  • PythonHOT
  • RHOT
  • Sun Microsystems Java
 Content authoring and editing software
  • Adobe Systems Adobe AfterEffectsHOT
  • Adobe Systems Adobe Dreamweaver
  • Adobe Systems Adobe Fireworks
  • Adobe Systems Adobe IllustratorHOT
  • Adobe Systems Adobe PhotoshopHOT
  • Microsoft ExcelHOT
  • Microsoft PowerPointHOT
  • Microsoft VisioHOT
  • Microsoft WordHOT
 Industry specific software
  • Agronomic modeling software
  • Autodesk AutoCADHOT
  • Autodesk Land DesktopHOT
  • Bentley MicrostationHOT
  • Computer aided design and drafting software CADDHOT
  • Coordinate geometry COGO software
  • ESRI ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst
  • ESRI ArcGIS Spatial Analyst
  • Hydrological modeling software
  • Landmark GeoGraphix
  • SASHOT
  • The MathWorks MATLABHOT
 Information exchange software
  • CDA International Manifold System
  • Email software
  • ESRI ArcGIS softwareHOT
  • ESRI ArcIMS
  • ESRI ArcInfo
  • ESRI ArcPad
  • ESRI ArcView
  • Geographic information system GIS softwareHOT
  • Global positioning system GPS software
  • ITT Visual Information Solutions ENVI
  • Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE
  • Trimble Pathfinder Office
 Network applications software
  • ESRI ArcSDE
  • Web browser software
 Operating environment software
  • Job control language JCL
  • Shell scriptHOT
  • UNIXHOT
 Business function specific software
  • Microsoft OfficeHOT
  • Microsoft SharePointHOT
All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.
Certifications
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Certifications
FastForward at Virginia's Community Colleges is a short-term training program for high-demand industries, like healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades and infrastructure, helping Virginians get the jobs and salaries they need. Our goal is to get you trained, help you earn your certification, and get you into a career that can support you and your family. Explore the latest training program offerings by visiting FastForward
The certifications listed below are useful to pursue if you are interested in a career in this field.
No specific certifications are listed for this career
All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.
Licensing
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Licensing
The licensing information below is organized into sections and is useful for pursuing if you are interested in a career in this field.
No specific licensing information is listed for this occupation in the area you have selected.
All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.
Related Programs
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Programs related to this career, offered by participating institution(s), are listed below.

Clicking on the Degree programs in the list below will take you away from the Careers page.
INSTITUTION
PROGRAMS
Appalachian College of Pharmacy
Averett University
Blue Ridge Community College
Bluefield University
Bridgewater College
Brightpoint Community College
Central Virginia Community College
Christopher Newport University
Danville Community College
Eastern Mennonite University
Eastern Shore Community College
Emory & Henry University
Ferrum College
George Mason University
George Washington University College of Professional Studies
Germanna Community College
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
James Madison University
Laurel Ridge Community College
Longwood University
Marymount University
Mountain Empire Community College
Mountain Gateway Community College
New River Community College
Norfolk State University
Northern Virginia Community College
Old Dominion University
Patrick & Henry Community College
Paul D. Camp Community College
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Radford University
Randolph College
Randolph-Macon College
Rappahannock Community College
Regent University
Richard Bland College
Roanoke College
Shenandoah University
Southside Virginia Community College
Southwest Virginia Community College
The University of Virginia's College at Wise
Tidewater Community College
University of Lynchburg
University of Mary Washington
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Highlands Community College
Virginia Peninsula Community College
Virginia Western Community College
William & Mary
Wytheville Community College