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Geography Careers and Jobs

Select, Find and Prepare for Geography Careers and Jobs - all on one page

For people interested in both physical geography and the growing field of geospatial data analysis. Use the tools below to see which geography roles fit your background and goals.

This major combines physical science (climate, landforms) with spatial-data skills (GIS), making GIS proficiency a major differentiator in the job market. Use the tools below to explore Geography-related job titles sorted by growth rate, salary, or required education. You can start with entry points like GIS Technician, or look ahead to advanced roles such as GIS Analyst or Geospatial Analyst. Along the way, you will see specific certifications, such as GIS Professional (GISP) Certification, that can help you move up the career ladder.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link

This page will take you through 4 steps to (1) Select from Geography careers/jobs, (2) Find Geography job listings, (3) Prepare for Geography careers, and (4) Provide Geography career-specific resources.

Step 1: Select a Career/Job: This page starts with 4 ways for you to identify and select from listings of Geography careers/jobs:
A) Fastest Growing Geography Careers - 2023 to 2033 (est.)
These listings are based on job growth estimates and helps you to identify the fastest growing and evolving Geography careers. Some careers may not initially seem related to Geography, so relevant Geography jobs are listed alongside each listing. This can also help us to identify which careers (bottom of the listing) may have negative growth - perhaps due to automation or planned obsolescence.
B) Median Annual Salary U.S. Geography Careers
These listings are sorted (descending) by median annual salary in the U.S. This may help us to identify our ideal career. We may not qualify at this time for the desired career, but this listing and the results provided can help us to explore job details, as well as learn how to appropriately prepare for the career.
C) Geography Career Ladders (Educational Requirements)
These listings will help us to identify Geography careers sorted by educational requirements (with the most difficult to obtain listed first). This may help us to identify career ladders (as we scroll down the list), and help us to get jobs that we qualify for now.
D) Select From a Listing of 22 Geography Jobs.
The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.
Once you have identified a job title of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the chosen career. Information may include (not every career choice includes all of the elements below - updates occur quarterly):
Core Duties: Lists the primary worker-related tasks performed in this occupation
Supplemental Duties: Lists additional tasks that are performed but are secondary to the core duties
Work Activities: Summarizes the broad types of behaviors and actions related to this career
Specific Work Activities: Provides more granular day-to-day activities tied to the work performed
Essential Skills: Provides foundational skills that are core to performing this specific occupation
Transferable Skills: Provides career-portable skills that can be applied across multiple occupations and industries
Day-in-the-Life Summaries: Provides a snapshot of the key activities performed on a typical workday in this career
Knowledge Required: Provides the requirements regarding the acquisition of facts and principles
Software Skills: Lists software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized by category and priority
Preparation Required: Provides a summary of the required experience and education
Education Required: Detailed breakdown of the education required
Training and Experience Required: Detailed breakdown of the training and Training and Experience Required
Local Salary Information: Provides national and local salary ranges
Certifications: Provides appropriate government and private-sector certifications and/or credentials that may be required
Professional Associations: Provides professional associations that are related to the career selected
Job Listings: Provides links to active current job listings for the selected career, along with multiple similar job titles to explore. All information appears on this page without navigating away.
Related Careers to Consider: Lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to your initial choice - what they do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit.

** If you clicked on a link from section D (as described in Step 1 above), you will see one or more links to an occupation that is usually a bit more general than your initial job selection - the link(s) is directly related to the specific job you identified through your prior selections.
*NOTE: It is possible that there may not be a career path identified for the specific job you selected in Step 1. If this is the case, scroll up the page and click on a different career/job.

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that provide detailed (updated) links specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview. Can also assist with coffee chats.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career/Job

4 Geography careers are listed below (sorted by Percentage Change in Total Job Openings - 2023 to 2033 est.). Geography-related jobs specific to each career are also provided. This shows which careers are emerging and growing the fastest. Please Scroll and Select below:

Occupations U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033 (% change) Geography-Related Jobs

Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary 8.1% Adjunct Anthropology Instructor; Adjunct Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Professor; Sociocultural Anthropology Professor
Occupation: Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 8.1% Geography-Related Jobs: Adjunct Anthropology Instructor; Adjunct Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Professor; Sociocultural Anthropology Professor
Anthropologists and Archeologists 7.4% Applied Anthropologist; Applied Cultural Anthropologist; Forensic Anthropologist; Medical Anthropologist; Physical Anthropologist; Political Anthropologist; Research Anthropologist
Occupation: Anthropologists and Archeologists U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 7.4% Geography-Related Jobs: Applied Anthropologist; Applied Cultural Anthropologist; Forensic Anthropologist; Medical Anthropologist; Physical Anthropologist; Political Anthropologist; Research Anthropologist
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary 6.3% Cultural Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Instructor; Human Geography Professor; Physical Geography Professor
Occupation: Geography Teachers, Postsecondary U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 6.3% Geography-Related Jobs: Cultural Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Instructor; Human Geography Professor; Physical Geography Professor
Geographers 1.1% Economic Geographer; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); Physical Geographer; Political Geographer
Occupation: Geographers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 1.1% Geography-Related Jobs: Economic Geographer; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); Physical Geographer; Political Geographer

5 Geography careers are listed below (sorted by U.S. National Median Salary). Geography-related jobs specific to each occupation are also provided. Please Scroll and Select below::

Occupations National Median Salary Geography-Related Jobs

Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians $ 104,920 Field GIS Technician (Field Geographic Information Systems Technician); GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)
Occupation: Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians National Median Salary: $ 104,920 Geography-Related Jobs: Field GIS Technician (Field Geographic Information Systems Technician); GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary $ 93,650 Adjunct Anthropology Instructor; Adjunct Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Professor; Sociocultural Anthropology Professor
Occupation: Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary National Median Salary: $ 93,650 Geography-Related Jobs: Adjunct Anthropology Instructor; Adjunct Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Professor; Sociocultural Anthropology Professor
Geographers $ 90,880 Economic Geographer; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); Physical Geographer; Political Geographer
Occupation: Geographers National Median Salary: $ 90,880 Geography-Related Jobs: Economic Geographer; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); Physical Geographer; Political Geographer
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary $ 85,600 Cultural Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Instructor; Human Geography Professor; Physical Geography Professor
Occupation: Geography Teachers, Postsecondary National Median Salary: $ 85,600 Geography-Related Jobs: Cultural Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Instructor; Human Geography Professor; Physical Geography Professor
Anthropologists and Archeologists $ 63,800 Applied Anthropologist; Applied Cultural Anthropologist; Forensic Anthropologist; Medical Anthropologist; Physical Anthropologist; Political Anthropologist; Research Anthropologist
Occupation: Anthropologists and Archeologists National Median Salary: $ 63,800 Geography-Related Jobs: Applied Anthropologist; Applied Cultural Anthropologist; Forensic Anthropologist; Medical Anthropologist; Physical Anthropologist; Political Anthropologist; Research Anthropologist

5 Geography careers are listed (sorted by Education/Preparation Requirements - descending) to provide career ladders. Geography-related jobs specific to each career are also provided.

Education/Preparation Categories:
5 = Usually requires graduate school (e.g., Master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.)
4 = Usually requires a four-year Bachelor's degree
3 = Usually requires vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or Associate's degree
2 = Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, but not always
Please Scroll and Select below:
Occupations Education/Preparation Geography-Related Jobs

Anthropologists and Archeologists 5 Applied Anthropologist; Applied Cultural Anthropologist; Forensic Anthropologist; Medical Anthropologist; Physical Anthropologist; Political Anthropologist; Research Anthropologist
Occupation: Anthropologists and Archeologists Education/Preparation: 5 Geography-Related Jobs: Applied Anthropologist; Applied Cultural Anthropologist; Forensic Anthropologist; Medical Anthropologist; Physical Anthropologist; Political Anthropologist; Research Anthropologist
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary 5 Adjunct Anthropology Instructor; Adjunct Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Professor; Sociocultural Anthropology Professor
Occupation: Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary Education/Preparation: 5 Geography-Related Jobs: Adjunct Anthropology Instructor; Adjunct Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Lecturer; Cultural Anthropology Professor; Sociocultural Anthropology Professor
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary 5 Cultural Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Instructor; Human Geography Professor; Physical Geography Professor
Occupation: Geography Teachers, Postsecondary Education/Preparation: 5 Geography-Related Jobs: Cultural Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Faculty Member; Human Geography Instructor; Human Geography Professor; Physical Geography Professor
Geographers 4 Economic Geographer; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); Physical Geographer; Political Geographer
Occupation: Geographers Education/Preparation: 4 Geography-Related Jobs: Economic Geographer; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); Physical Geographer; Political Geographer
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians 4 Field GIS Technician (Field Geographic Information Systems Technician); GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)
Occupation: Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians Education/Preparation: 4 Geography-Related Jobs: Field GIS Technician (Field Geographic Information Systems Technician); GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)

Scroll through the picklist (below). There are 22 specific Geography job titles listed. Select those that may be of interest - you will get active job listing links, along with detailed resources to help you prepare for a career related to that job.
You can use this form two ways:

hidden filler

Filter - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles below

Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title (Scroll and Select) :

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Find Job Listings: Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians.


Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career





Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians

Description: 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.
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Produce data layers, maps, tables, or reports, using spatial analysis procedures or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: 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.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Create, analyze, report, convert, or transfer data, using specialized applications program software.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Review existing or incoming data for currency, accuracy, usefulness, quality, or completeness of documentation.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Select cartographic elements needed for effective presentation of information.
Importance: 94 (%) Description: 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.
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Maintain or modify existing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases.
Importance: 91 (%) Description: Create visual representations of geospatial data, using complex procedures such as analytical modeling, three-dimensional renderings, or plot creation.
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Design or prepare graphic representations of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, using GIS hardware or software applications.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Interpret aerial or ortho photographs.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Perform geospatial data building, modeling, or analysis, using advanced spatial analysis, data manipulation, or cartography software.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Collect, compile, or integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, such as remote sensing or cartographic data for inclusion in map manuscripts.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Design or coordinate the development of integrated Geographic Information Systems (GIS) spatial or non-spatial databases.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Conduct research, data analysis, systems design, or support for software such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or Global Positioning Systems (GPS) mapping software.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Transfer or rescale information from original photographs onto maps or other photographs.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Provide technical expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to clients or users.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Meet with clients to discuss topics such as technical specifications, customized solutions, or operational problems.
Importance: 73 (%) Description: Document, design, code, or test Geographic Information Systems (GIS) models, internet mapping solutions, or other applications.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Perform integrated or computerized Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analyses to address scientific problems.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Confer with users to analyze, configure, or troubleshoot applications.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Provide technical support to users or clients regarding the maintenance, development, or operation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases, equipment, or applications.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Design, program, or model Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications or procedures.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Recommend procedures, equipment, or software upgrades to increase data accessibility or ease of use.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 97 (%) Description: Make recommendations regarding upgrades, considering implications of new or revised Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, equipment, or applications.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Prepare training materials for, or make presentations to, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) users.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Apply three-dimensional (3D) or four-dimensional (4D) technologies to geospatial data to allow for new or different analyses or applications.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: 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.
Importance: 57 (%) Description: Develop specialized computer software routines, internet-based Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases, or business applications to customize geographic information.
Importance: 53 (%) Description: Assist users in formulating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) requirements or understanding the implications of alternatives.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others: Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Training and Teaching Others: Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Developing and Building Teams: Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Developing Objectives and Strategies: Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables.
Analyze Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data for use in green applications.
Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.
Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.
Create databases to store electronic data.
Design computer modeling or simulation programs.
Design integrated computer systems.
Design software applications.
Develop models of information or communications systems.
Develop scientific or mathematical models.
Document technical specifications or requirements.
Evaluate data quality.
Prepare analytical reports.
Prepare data for analysis.
Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information.
Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
Recommend changes to improve computer or information systems.
Test software performance.
Train others in computer interface or software use.
Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
Update computer database information.
Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.
Write computer programming code.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 86 (%) Description: 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.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Engineering and Technology: 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.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Customer and Personal Service: 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.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Administrative: Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Active Listening: 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.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Advise others on the design or use of technologies.
Activity: Analyze environmental or geospatial data.
Activity: Analyze scientific or applied data using mathematical principles.
Activity: Communicate with others about specifications or project details.
Activity: Coordinate with others to resolve problems.
Activity: Create visual designs or displays.
Activity: Design computer or information systems or applications.
Activity: Design databases.
Activity: Develop models of systems, processes, or products.
Activity: Develop scientific or mathematical theories or models.
Activity: Direct organizational operations, activities, or procedures.
Activity: Document technical designs, procedures, or activities.
Activity: Evaluate the quality or accuracy of data.
Activity: Maintain current knowledge in area of expertise.
Activity: Present research or technical information.
Activity: Process digital or online data.
Activity: Program computer systems or production equipment.
Activity: Research technology designs or applications.
Activity: Resolve computer problems.
Activity: Test performance of computer or information systems.
Activity: Train others to use equipment or products.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Data base user interface and query software:
Amazon Web Services AWS software
Microsoft Access
Structured query language SQL
Development environment software:
Microsoft Azure software
Electronic mail software:
Microsoft Outlook
Geographic information system:
ESRI ArcGIS software
Object or component oriented development software:
Python
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Web platform development software:
JavaScript
Widely Used Tech Skills
Analytical or scientific software:
ESRI ArcGIS ArcPy
ESRI ArcGIS Survey 123
Geographic information system:
Geographic information system GIS software
Geographic information system GIS systems
QGIS
Map creation software:
RockWare ArcMap
Emerging Tech Skills
Analytical or scientific software:
SAS
The MathWorks MATLAB
Application server software:
Docker
GitHub
Kubernetes
Business intelligence and data analysis software:
Tableau
Computer aided design CAD software:
Bentley MicroStation
Content workflow software:
Atlassian JIRA
Data base management system software:
Microsoft SQL Server
Oracle PL/SQL
Teradata Database
Data base user interface and query software:
ServiceNow
Transact-SQL
Development environment software (scroll table below):
C
Go
Microsoft .NET Framework
Microsoft Visual Basic
Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA
Microsoft Visual Studio
Document management software:
Adobe Acrobat
Microsoft SharePoint
Enterprise application integration software:
Extensible markup language XML
Jenkins CI
Enterprise resource planning ERP software:
SAP software
File versioning software:
Git
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Creative Cloud software
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Object or component oriented development software (scroll table below):
C#
C++
jQuery
Oracle Java
Perl
R
TypeScript
Object oriented data base management software:
PostgreSQL
Office suite software:
Google Workspace software
Operating system software:
Apple iOS
Linux
Shell script
UNIX
Process mapping and design software:
Microsoft Visio
Video creation and editing software:
Adobe After Effects
Web platform development software (scroll table below):
Bootstrap
Cascading style sheets CSS
Google Angular
Hypertext markup language HTML
JavaScript Object Notation JSON
Microsoft ASP.NET
Node.js
PHP
React
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Analytical or scientific software:
Agronomic modeling software
Coordinate geometry COGO software
Hydrological modeling software
Landmark Graphics GeoGraphix
Cloud-based management software:
IBM WebSphere
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk Land Desktop
Computer aided design and drafting software CADD
Data base management system software:
Relational database management software
Relational database management system RDMS
Data base reporting software:
SAP BusinessObjects Crystal Reports
Data base user interface and query software (scroll table below):
ADO.NET
Autodesk Topobase
dBASE
National Land Cover Database NLCD
Soil Survey Geographic SSURGO
State Soil Geographic STATSGO Database
Development environment software (scroll table below):
Adobe ActionScript
ArcGIS Web AppBuilder
Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
List processing language LISP
Microsoft Azure DevOps Services
Microsoft Visual Basic Scripting Edition VBScript
Software development tools
Software libraries
Web application software
Document management software:
Microsoft SharePoint Server
Electronic mail software:
Email software
Enterprise application integration software:
Enterprise application integration EAI software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software:
Management information systems MIS
Microsoft Dynamics
Geographic information system (scroll table below):
ESRI ArcEditor
ESRI ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst
ESRI ArcGIS Spatial Analyst
ESRI ArcIMS
ESRI ArcInfo
ESRI ArcPad
ESRI ArcSDE
ESRI ArcView
Google Earth Pro
Internet browser software:
Web browser software
Map creation software:
CDA International Manifold System
ITT Visual Information Solutions ENVI
Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE
Trimble Pathfinder Office
Mobile location based services software:
Global positioning system GPS software
Object or component oriented development software:
Sun Microsystems Java
Operating system software:
Job control language JCL
Requirements analysis and system architecture software:
Unified modeling language UML
Web page creation and editing software:
Adobe Dreamweaver
Web platform development software (scroll table below):
Autodesk MapGuide
Drupal
Ext JS
LAMP Stack
Oracle JavaServer Pages JSP
RESTful API
Word processing software:
Microsoft OneNote
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

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.

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

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

Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, conservation scientists, art directors, and cost estimators.
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 39.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 13.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 12.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years
Frequency of Attainment: 10.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 7.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 10 years
Frequency of Attainment: 7.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 6.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 2.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months
Professional Associations
Professional Associations
These associations connect people who work in this occupation or related fields. How can you start using these associations to learn more, build your network, or find mentoring opportunities?
Geospatial Information and Technology Association (GITA) External Link
GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) External Link
Strategic and Competitive Intelligence Professionals (SCIP) External Link
Job Listings
Job Listings and Similar Occupational Titles - scroll and click to identify common requirements, keywords, and skills in current job listings
Cartographic Technician (Cartographic Tech)
Field GIS Technician (Field Geographic Information Systems Technician)
Geospatial Analyst
Geospatial Engineer
Geospatial Information Technologist
Geospatial Specialist
Geospatial Technician
Geospatial Technologist
GIS Admin (Geographic Information Systems Administrator)
GIS Analyst (Geographic Information System Analyst)
GIS Analyst (Geographic Information Systems Analyst)
GIS Application Specialist (Geographic Information Systems Application Specialist)
GIS Applications Specialist (Geographic Information Systems Applications Specialist)
GIS Assessment Tech (Geographic Information Systems Assessment Technician)
GIS Consultant (Geographic Information Systems Consultant)
GIS Coordinator (Geographic Information Systems Coordinator)
GIS Data Administrator (Geographic Information Systems Data Administrator)
GIS Data Specialist (Geographic Information Systems Data Specialist)
GIS Database Administrator (Geographic Information Systems Database Administrator)
GIS Developer (Geographic Information Systems Developer)
GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)
GIS Specialist (Geographic Information Systems Specialist)
GIS Specialist (Geographical Information System Specialist)
GIS Tech (Geographic Information Systems Technician)
GIS Technician (Geographical Information System Technician)
GIS Technologist (Geographic Information Systems Technologist)
GPS Analyst Technician (Global Positioning Systems Analyst Technician)
GPS Field Technician (Global Positioning System Field Technician)
GPS Technician (Global Position System Technician)
Related Careers to Consider
Related Careers to Consider
This lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to what "Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians" do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit. How do these related occupations align with your interests, skills, and goals?
1 - Surveying and Mapping Technicians
2 - Data Scientists
3 - Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
4 - Geographers
5 - Geodetic Surveyors
6 - Database Architects
7 - Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
8 - Computer Systems Analysts
9 - Bioinformatics Technicians
10 - Remote Sensing Technicians
11 - Hydrologic Technicians
12 - Database Administrators
13 - Software Developers
14 - Data Warehousing Specialists
15 - Statistical Assistants
16 - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
17 - Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
18 - Statisticians
19 - Computer Programmers
20 - Business Intelligence Analysts


Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources

This section contains detailed external resources appropriate to "Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians" occupation.






Developed by Dr. Ralph Jagodka, Ed.D., Professor Emeritus of Business Management at Mt. San Antonio College and author of the Harvard Business Impact article "What to Do When Students Ask You for Career Advice." - Full bio. © 2026 About This Page