GIS Software Jobs

Using digital technology, CAD, and satellite images, GIS software is created for the purpose of extracting data that is location-specific. This new technology replaces a multitude of traditional mapping methods, including standard pencil-and-paper efforts. Gone are the days of going into a local city government office and requesting access to those large paper maps. Zoning efforts are simplified, property lines are definitive and leave no room for error, and earth as we known it is presented via incredible high-altitude imagery.

Suddenly, information such as the elevation of land in Brazil or the latest imagery from a hurricane entering the Gulf of Mexico are available instantly, all courtesy of the latest GIS advances. Odds are, you've already witnessed this incredible technology and may not have even realized it. If you've ever zoomed in on a site using Google Earth, or if you participate in one of the online virtual communities, you used some form of GIS data. Using pixels, color values, and shadowing, the images are brought to life and provide accurate data regardless of the request. Rarely, a null value will be returned, but the odds of returns such as those continue to dwindle as more data is added every hour of every day. Choosing a career in GIS, then, is almost a sure thing as it's still a relatively new occupation, though it is rapidly becoming one of the most sought after job choices.

Those who collect GIS data rely on a number of software applications for input into a GIS system. Some experts are concerned about the number of available programs that users are incorporating. The concern is that few of these programs are compatible with others, and that could potentially cause problems as this new science progresses. It's a realistic concern, even with the open-source foundations. Currently, there are many applications that are widely used, even if they're not compatible:

• Quantum — Works well in Linux, Mac, and Windows
• ILWIS — Supports thematic data and water information
• FIST — Considered one of the most user-friendly applications
• TerraView — Critical for use with vector and raster data storage

These are but a few of the more than 200 available programs. Still, engineers and developers continue in their efforts to bridge the incompatibilities.

Those seeking GIS jobs are likely to encounter a large demand for certified users, and as such, many employers are luring new hires by covering the expenses involved in becoming certified. An added benefit is a thorough knowledge of the software, and in fact, an understanding of more than a few of the available applications is advantageous to job seekers. Even if an employer isn't using the ones an applicant is familiar with, it shows versatility that many aren't capable of. These information systems are critical, and because many department managers aren't familiar enough with this new concept, they must rely on those with experience. As is common in many industries, their goal is to provide the tools and then allow their newly defined GIS departments to present the results.

Another advantage this field offers is the number of available positions. Even when other positions are slowly yet consistently being reduced, GIS workers are not only finding positions but are being promoted on a regular basis. Interestingly enough, there is no one ideal candidate. Employers report hiring recent retirees (especially those with military backgrounds), college graduates (surprisingly, those with degrees that are in no way related to the GIS field are applying in record numbers), and men and women alike, with no definitive age ranges standing out either.

Job titles, requirements, and descriptions might include:

• Ability to work simultaneously on several projects
• Experience in aviation, rail designs, noise reduction, and other engineering tasks
• Ability to design and maintain an entire GIS database
• For GIS technicians specifically, abilities should include leadership qualities and the skill to develop and maintain a GIS database

Other requirements might include experience in cartography, geography, and mapping sciences. Keep in mind, though, that these positions most likely will require degrees. Many employers insist on cross-training with other departments, too. The pay scales vary and are dependent on the position as well as the region of the country one resides in; however, generally speaking, starting salaries appear to be considerably higher than average. As one might expect, the higher the education level, the higher the salaries one might expect. As such, it's strongly suggested that you continue your education, especially in geography and social sciences. These appear to offer the most opportunities and are more hands-on, especially for those willing to travel. Job opportunities exist in the private sector, educational facilities, and government entities.