If you're good at mapping things out, you might want to consider becoming a geographic information systems (GIS) analyst. GIS analysts evaluate spatial data using mapping software and design digital data. They integrate skills in data analysis, programming and cartography to identify and analyze geographic trends. The data that they provide is used for urban planning, environmental impact analysis, navigation, and much more.
Some key tasks you can expect to perform as a GIS analyst include identifying spatial relationships, performing geospatial data building, modeling, or analysis, reviewing existing or incoming data for currency and accuracy, and entering data into GIS databases.
If you want to become a GIS analyst, you'll need to have a knowledge of cartography, database management, spatial analysis, and remote sensing. In addition, you'll need a Bachelor's degree in either computer science, geography, geoscience, surveying, engineering, or a related field. Many entry-level positions do not require prior experience to apply, but some might require related work experience or a GIS analyst internship.
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to being a gis analyst. For example, did you know that they make an average of $32.41 an hour? That's $67,416 a year!
Between 2018 and 2028, the career is expected to grow 9% and produce 56,000 job opportunities across the U.S.
There are certain skills that many gis analysts have in order to accomplish their responsibilities. By taking a look through resumes, we were able to narrow down the most common skills for a person in this position. We discovered that a lot of resumes listed communication skills, creativity and analytical skills.
If you're interested in becoming a gis analyst, one of the first things to consider is how much education you need. We've determined that 73.5% of gis analysts have a bachelor's degree. In terms of higher education levels, we found that 15.4% of gis analysts have master's degrees. Even though most gis analysts have a college degree, it's possible to become one with only a high school degree or GED.
Choosing the right major is always an important step when researching how to become a gis analyst. When we researched the most common majors for a gis analyst, we found that they most commonly earn bachelor's degree degrees or master's degree degrees. Other degrees that we often see on gis analyst resumes include associate degree degrees or diploma degrees.
You may find that experience in other jobs will help you become a gis analyst. In fact, many gis analyst jobs require experience in a role such as gis technician. Meanwhile, many gis analysts also have previous career experience in roles such as gis internship or gis specialist.