Career overview

Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians

O*NET-SOC 15-1299.02

Median pay / yr$108,970

OutlookRapid Growth

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.

What it takes

The skills, knowledge, and credentials employers look for in Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians.

Skills employers look for

Reading ComprehensionUnderstanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Critical ThinkingUsing logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Active ListeningGiving 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.
SpeakingTalking to others to convey information effectively.
Complex Problem SolvingIdentifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Knowledge areas

GeographyKnowledge 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 ElectronicsKnowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English LanguageKnowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
MathematicsKnowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
DesignKnowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.