Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Job outlook for geospatial analysts in the United States
Are geospatial analyst jobs in demand?
Geospatial analyst job and salary trends over time
Geospatial analyst jobs over time
Geospatial analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 3,225 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 3,168 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 3,157 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 3,092 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 3,149 | 0.00% |
Average geospatial analyst salary over time
Geospatial analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $62,823 | $30.20 | +4.5% |
| 2024 | $60,099 | $28.89 | +1.5% |
| 2023 | $59,196 | $28.46 | +2.4% |
| 2022 | $57,787 | $27.78 | +2.4% |
| 2021 | $56,450 | $27.14 | +1.2% |
Geospatial analyst jobs by state
Most common states for geospatial analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 116 | 17% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 481 | 6% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 279 | 5% |
| 4 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 201 | 4% |
| 5 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 60 | 4% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 190 | 3% |
| 7 | Delaware | 961,939 | 25 | 3% |
| 8 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 22 | 3% |
| 9 | Alaska | 739,795 | 22 | 3% |
| 10 | California | 39,536,653 | 614 | 2% |
| 11 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 438 | 2% |
| 12 | New York | 19,849,399 | 350 | 2% |
| 13 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 237 | 2% |
| 14 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 144 | 2% |
| 15 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 59 | 2% |
| 16 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 58 | 2% |
| 17 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 27 | 2% |
| 18 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 24 | 2% |
| 19 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 18 | 2% |
| 20 | Vermont | 623,657 | 14 | 2% |
Most common cities for geospatial analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Springfield | 3 | 10% | $67,444 |
| 2 | Hillsboro | 2 | 2% | $62,549 |
| 3 | Washington | 4 | 1% | $73,432 |
| 4 | Baton Rouge | 1 | 0% | $74,839 |
| 5 | Birmingham | 1 | 0% | $52,196 |
| 6 | Saint Louis | 1 | 0% | $58,136 |
Geospatial Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of geospatial analyst experts
University of North Alabama
Coastal Carolina University
University of New Orleans
Arizona State University
Valparaiso University
University of North Alabama
New Mexico State University
Samford University
Central Connecticut State University
University of Indianapolis
Colgate University
University of Puget Sound
DePaul University
Montclair State University
Michigan Technological University
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Professor Noel Healy: Geospatial technologies, like GIS, are rapidly evolving and are highly sought-after skillsets. Also, skills in data analysis, environmental modeling, programming skills in R are already increasingly important as industries and governments prioritize sustainability and data-driven decisions.
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Professor Noel Healy: Focus on developing niche skills that are in high demand, such as GIS expertise, Coding in R, or environmental consulting. Additionally, consider roles in high-paying sectors like technology or government, which often value the diverse skill set that geographers bring.
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Dr. Jian Chen: Be open-minded when you start to search for your first job. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of Geography, a degree in Geography prepares students for many different career paths...
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Jian Chen: GIS skills, especially web GIS skills will become more important in the next 3-5 years...
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Jian Chen: A data scientist is still one of the “sexy” jobs in the market. If you have a Geography degree, you can look for any data scientist position which has a geospatial component...
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Kathy Kozenski: At this time, thinking spatially is vital to solving problems; an employer is looking for someone who can aggregate disparate pieces of data and information in order to develop creative and unique solutions.
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Kathy Kozenski: Students who are Geographically Literate and capable of utilizing GIS (geographic information sciences/systems) and Geospatial Technologies enhance their opportunities for employment, across all disciplines and employment fields.
Dr. Carolyn Dillian Ph.D., RPA
Professor of AnthropologyCoastal Carolina University
Geological And Earth Sciences/Geosciences
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Dr. Carolyn Dillian Ph.D., RPA: Two things come to mind: first, try to develop at least a passing competency in multiple skills, including at least some digital proficiencies like 3D modeling or GIS. And second, don’t neglect the soft skills like good research, communication, and writing. These skills will be important in every aspect of your career no matter what your focus may be.
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Carolyn Dillian Ph.D., RPA: Be flexible and willing to learn. Your college training will be a great background for the field, but you’ll develop and refine your skills through hands-on experience, so be sure to ask questions, seek advice, and find a mentor to help you get started in the field.
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Carolyn Dillian Ph.D., RPA: Digital skills are increasingly important in the field, including 3D scanning and modeling, GIS, and the use of drones for recording and assessing structures, among other things. Students and early career professionals should try to take courses that provide an introduction to these technologies, as they are increasingly becoming requirements for employment.
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Dr. Mark Kulp Professor: As mentioned geospatial skills, team player mentality and perhaps most importantly be able to express yourself in spoken and written form. Especially important is the ability to technically write and convey complex topics in an easy to read, error free format. Also, the ability to orally present information in front of others in the form of powerpoint presentations.
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Mark Kulp Professor: Individuals should make sure that that have some GIS/Geospatial software background and the more that they have the better. Individuals that can easily store, display and interpret large, complex datasets will be those who are most well equipped for entry-level positions. Learning modern programming language such as PYTHON is a substantial benefit. Field and laboratory experience is a necessity and students should strive to have experience working within and on research projects as part of a group project or individual research-based project.
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Mark Kulp Professor: Have as much practical, hands-on experience in the field as possible and be sure that your CV reflects your desire to learn and excel within the field. Also demonstrate that you are a team player and willing and able to work under stressful conditions when projects need to be completed and work in the midst of others with whom you may not necessarily agree.
B.L. Turner
Arizona State University
Geography And Cartography
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
B.L. Turner: All of the STEM elements that permit analysis of remotely sensed data, foremost satellite data, GIS analysis, spatial analysis, and ability to integrate social and biophysical elements of problems
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
B.L. Turner: By maintaining skill sets for problem solving—for geographical science these are those related to remote sensing, GIScience, and integrated human-environmental issues (that include sustainability).
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
B.L. Turner: Focus on one of the STEM parts of geographical sciences—remote sensing, GIS, and integrated human-envirnmental science plus modeling that has both academic/research and application applicability.
Jon-Paul McCool
Associate Professor of Geography; Environmental Science Program CoordinatorValparaiso University
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Jon-Paul McCool: In terms of technical skills, the ability to utilize GIS for more than basic mapping. The ability to do more in depth analytical processes and to utilize the mobile components to the software. However, employers are stressing the need for new employees to have drive and individual initiative. Soft skills associated with independence, and the ability to learn on your own are going to be essential.
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jon-Paul McCool: Utilize your time as an undergraduate student to set yourself apart. Do some kind of research project that can show your ability to do more than only the assigned work in classes. Utilize your summers to gain additional experience by working relevant jobs and internships. To all extents possible, do not limit yourself spatially. Be willing to travel to far flung locations, at least for a few years, to gain relevant experience after graduating rather than being tied to one specific location or region. You are far more employable with a couple years experience rather than straight out of school.
Michael Pretes
Professor and Chair of Geoscience, University of North AlabamaUniversity of North Alabama
Geography And Cartography
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Michael Pretes: A good knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is essential for many Geography jobs. Also gaining in importance are skills in Remote Sensing, LiDAR, Web GIS, database management, and Python programming. But perhaps most important of all is good communication skills—oral, written, and visual.
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Pretes: Do your homework before applying and interviewing for jobs, so that you are familiar with industry salary ranges and expectations. Then negotiate before accepting a position. If you are just starting out and are nervous about salary negotiations, consult your university's career center for advice and practice interviewing and negotiating scenarios. You should also consider your work-life balance and whether salary or work scheduling and conditions are more important.
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Michael Pretes: Geography and Geographic Information Science (GIS) are two of the most employable degrees out there and they offer the greatest variety of career opportunities. In addition to working as a GIS Technician or GIS Analyst, in which you would be creating maps and databases for many kinds of employers, some Geography and GIS graduates find work as airline pilots, law enforcement officers, in the diplomatic service or military, as historical preservation experts, as urban and community planners, land developers, in business location analysis and marketing, in the travel and hospitality industry, in agriculture, in natural resource management, and in business and law, among other fields. Many Geography and GIS graduates find jobs that involve working outdoors. My advice is to think about what kind of work you like to do, and where you want to live. Many jobs in Geography and GIS involve remote work, and some involve extensive travel. You can really choose your lifestyle and career with a Geography or GIS degree.
Dr. Christopher Brown Ph.D.
ProfessorNew Mexico State University
Department of Geography
What general advice would you give to a Geospatial Analyst?
Dr. Christopher Brown Ph.D.: Start researching early, really early, as in when are still in college. ID 3 jobs you would really want to have, unpack the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) needed, then make sure you acquires these KSAs in your work at University. Secure and internship or co-op in college, as these often lead to permanent jobs. Doing this let's prospective employers get to know you and your work ethic, and this makes you a preferred candidate. Learn all you can about the people who are interviewing you, make reference to key things you learn, and get to know them as much as you can in an interview. After the interview, send a thank you email, noting how much you enjoyed meeting them and how excited you are about the potential job.
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Christopher Brown Ph.D.: In the geography and environmental studies field, solid GIS&T skills give you a big advantage in the game. Programming and DB skills take things to a new level. You also need solid soft skills, and solid references that can speak to your wortk ethis are a must.
What will help Geospatial Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Christopher Brown Ph.D.: Do your homework ahead of interviewing so you know what the market for the job is like. Sell the heck out of yourself in the interview, noting what a solid investment you will be to the company or agency. If an offer is happening and they offer you a salry, don't reply right away. Your hesitation may let them know you are looking for more. Ss you accept the offer, ask about upward mobility in the firm or agency.
What type of skills will young Geospatial Analysts need?
Jonathan Fleming Ph.D.: A generic answer is that graduates need to have critical thinking and problem solving skills. Geography is a field with a rich liberal arts tradition, but modern geography bridges those traditions with the real need for practical problem solving. Successful graduates, particularly geographers focusing on GIS will need to know how to think spatially, apply practical skills in mapping and spatial analysis, and understand data analytics (especially big data), while also being able to understand their work in appropriate social, cultural, and environmental contexts.
Charles Button Ph.D.
Chairperson and ProfessorCentral Connecticut State University
Geography Department
What type of skills will young Geospatial Analysts need?
Charles Button Ph.D.: Graduating geographers wishing to succeed in today's workforce need to have the following skills:
- Identify and classify physical and human features of the environment
- Observe, collect, and record geographic information from both primary and secondary sources
- Interpret maps, tables, graphs, photographs, and fieldwork data
- Organize and present information in a coherent manner
What experience really stands out on Geospatial Analyst resumes?
Charles Button Ph.D.: A geographer's resume should be sure to highlight skills and accomplishments that will distinguish them from others. Some of the more important things to include on a resume are:
- Internships
- Certificates (e.g., GIS certificate)
- Volunteer activities related to the job field you are applying to
- Honors (e.g., awards received)
David Polly Ph.D.
Professor, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Research Associate, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago Adjunct Professor, Biology Adjunct Professor, AnthropologyUniversity of Indianapolis
Department of Biology
What type of skills will young Geospatial Analysts need?
David Polly Ph.D.: Basic knowledge in earth sciences, ability to creatively analyze data, and adaptability. It is rare for a job for a graduate to not require data analysis, sometimes lots of it. Someone who can combine those skills with a firm foundation in earth sciences is likely to be very employable.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Geospatial Analysts?
Jessica K. Graybill: Coronavirus has brought both challenges and benefits to university students. Disruption of the in-person college experience has meant that students have needed to communicate their needs more clearly and readily to professors and deans, to become more responsible as campus - and global - citizens, and to be more flexible about what is possible for personal growth at this unprecedented moment. These are all lessons - personal and professional - that will assist graduates well as they enter workplaces also changed by the virus.
What type of skills will young Geospatial Analysts need?
Jessica K. Graybill: Creativity and analytical skills are key, alongside the willingness to be familiar with a range of digital applications. For example, it will no longer be enough to just know SPSS or ArcGIS - students need to be familiar with navigating other digital and open-access platforms for data analysis. Entering the workforce in a post-pandemic world, Gen Z will need to be flexible about the times and places in which work occurs (in an office or from home), able to accommodate the health needs of themselves and others, and capable of engaging with - and perhaps even introducing - multiple kinds of digital programs and communications devices as they are rolled out and that will continue to connect us in new ways, and not always in person.
What type of skills will young Geospatial Analysts need?
Jeffrey Tepper Ph.D.: The ability to write is always essential. Competence with data management tools/interpretation is also necessary (EXCEL at a minimum, and preferably additional mathematical/statistical packages, such as MATLAB or R). The same goes for GIS (ArcMap or QGIS).
What experience really stands out on Geospatial Analyst resumes?
Jeffrey Tepper Ph.D.: A student who has completed an undergraduate thesis has demonstrated a degree of independence / self-motivation / ability to meet a project - all essential traits in 'the real world.' Another resume 'enhancers' would be internships, working for the geologic firm (summer or part-time during the school year), or being a lab assistant (demonstrating skills with analytical equipment or methods). Anything relevant to the geoscience field that shows initiative, reliability, and creativity. Most geology graduates will have taken a similar slate of courses, so 'standing out' requires more than just good grades.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Geospatial Analyst job market given the pandemic?
Winifred Curran Ph.D.: The pandemic has led to a tightening in the labor market that allows employers to be far demanding in terms of the skill sets and levels of experience they expect from potential employees. Workers are expected to do more with less and to have a broad array of skills. One thing the pandemic has highlighted is that everything is connected; we need to think holistically about issues, regardless of the economic sector. Luckily, geographers are well placed to do this.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Geospatial Analysts in the next 3-5 years?
Winifred Curran Ph.D.: GIS is only becoming more important across a variety of sectors, corporate, governmental, and nonprofit, and understanding how to use the technology to solve real world problems, without replicating the injustices that have often come with technological developments in key.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Geospatial Analyst job market given the pandemic?
Amy Tuininga Ph.D.: Many positions are moving to remote work, resulting in reduced commuting, less dedicated office space per employee, slightly more flexible work schedules, more deliverable-based work, and broad cross-geographic teams working together from different home locations. We see other trends moving to more analytics and tech/electronic sector positions and fewer positions in the service and hospitality industries. This means that graduates may need to rethink their skill set and be ready to apply it to different sectors than they had initially anticipated. For Sustainability, this means more focus on data analysis and reporting in areas such as climate change, emissions, energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste, supply chain, and food security.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Geospatial Analysts in the next 3-5 years?
Amy Tuininga Ph.D.: Efforts are moving most expeditiously toward developing renewable energy and energy storage, more efficient and more environmentally friendly types of renewable energy, human-interface technologies related to this, such as smart thermostats and smart meters, and developing access for all communities - energy justice and a Just Transition. The second is mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) - smart technology integrated with global positioning and drones.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Geospatial Analysts in the next 5 years?
Amy Tuininga Ph.D.: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that jobs related to renewable energy - particularly solar energy and, to a slightly lesser extent, off-shore wind energy - would show the most significant increases in employment over the next decade. Some of these data, though, are based on the 2010 census. It will be interesting to see the new set of data coming out from the 2020 census. Regardless, the solar industry is increasing.
What Geospatial Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Nathan Manser Ph.D.: In geosciences, and particular mining engineering, students on a gap year should explore graduate certificate opportunities that expand their skill sets in lifecycle assessment, geographical information systems, geospatial engineering, field sampling techniques, or other marketable skills that complement their interests in the industry. Even the traditional MBA would be a good compliment for students looking to be involved with the management side of mining instead of operations.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Geospatial Analysts in the next 3-5 years?
Nathan Manser Ph.D.: Engineers must be up-to-date on the latest digital technologies and be involved with how these techs will revolutionize the mining industry. As society demands more socially responsible actions from mining companies, the advancing digital revolution will provide the tools needed to manage a zero-impact mining operation. Students that get on board with that now will have a significant advantage.
What type of skills will young Geospatial Analysts need?
Candice Luebbering Ph.D.: Graduates entering the workforce need to have a strong understanding of the fundamentals of their field. These will consistently inform and guide their work while the specific technology and platforms they use may change from job-to-job, or task-to-task. Having a solid foundation in core concepts, combined with the adaptability to learn and become familiar with new tools and software, will greatly help graduates in the job market.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Geospatial Analysts to find work opportunities?
Candice Luebbering Ph.D.: Surveying and mapping technicians are needed throughout the country as government and businesses incorporate and implement more geospatial data and technology in their regular operations.
How do you envision technology impacting Geospatial Analysts in the next 5 years?
Candice Luebbering Ph.D.: Geospatial technologies continue to evolve. Those working in the field will need to stay up to date with the latest trends, tools, and software available so they are prepared for new job opportunities, to collaborate with colleagues in the field, and to communicate the technological options and possibilities with employers, customers, or clients.