GIS stands for Geographic Information System, which is something that the military has benefited from for quite a while now, and day to day uses are just barely beginning to be discovered. GIS jobs are new, and those people taking advantage of that relative infancy are starting to enjoy the benefits.
Perhaps one of the best jobs in this new field is in becoming a GIS consultant. And to become a GIS consultant, there are several requirements that should be met. First among these is the mandatory educational training. A Bachelor’s degree is needed in computer science or electronics, or some other closely related field. There are also training courses and GIS certificates that are available, and things of that nature will really help you to get employed more quickly, and supply you with more workplace benefits.
Aside from these educational requirements, there are also some skills and knowledge that you will obviously need. Good communication skills can not be stressed enough—you will need to be proficient in writing, as well as in oral presentation. Good leadership skills are also highly desired, and since you will be the leader, you will also need some previous GIS experience. (Three to five years is the most commonly desired time.) On those same lines, any references you have will be an added advantage that is worthy of special note. These references could be from former clients or former employers. Either is very beneficial.
GIS jobs are primarily mapping jobs, and so you will need to have knowledge of various map programs, including computer mapping software. Also, any knowledge you have of business will help you to succeed.
Since you would be a GIS consultant, it follows that you would work intimately with your company’s clients, and be ready and available for consulting services. You will also be given charge of clients, and important business projects, so you will need to be an expert in managing tasks.
A GIS consultant does more than all of this, and since there is such a wide variety of work a consultant must do, there are so many skills needed. Some of the consultant’s duties have been listed, but there are definitely more. A GIS consultant not only helps consult with clients, but also provides management with technical consulting, and must also be available to help develop new GIS projects. There will be many deadlines in your future if you pursue this career, and you will be pressured to offer exceptional performance. The work in this new career is difficult but ultimately rewarding.
GIS employment outlook is very good right now, and more positions in this new field are popping up all the time. There is job security in this field even though it is still growing. Because the growth is rapid yet stable these jobs are more secure than many out there.
