Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized the way we analyze, interpret, and visualize spatial data. With the increasing importance of location-based information across various industries, GIS professionals are in high demand. In this article, we will delve into the different career paths within GIS and explore the most sought-after opportunities today. There are tons more potential career options with a GIS degree with positions ranging anything from entry-level to senior-level. In this article we will explore the different career paths, earning potential as well as potential employers
Typical GIS Employers: Which Fields Can You Work In?
A while back, I had a comment asking about which industries GIS integrates most with. If there was one industry you could complement with a GIS degree, which one would it be?
Actually, there are too many to list. But based on job listings, here is a list of typical employers who hire GIS degree graduates:
- Government (County, Ministries, and Parastatals)
- Engineering
- Utilities (Electrical, telecommunications)
- Academic
- Environment and natural resources
- Military intelligence, emergency, and public safety
- Agriculture and soils
- Transportation and navigation
- Surveying, engineering, and construction
- Mining and oil
- Health and epidemiology
- Archaeology and history
Now let us look at career paths available:
GIS Analyst
GIS Analysts play a crucial role in collecting, managing, and analyzing spatial data to derive meaningful insights. They collaborate with various stakeholders to develop accurate maps, perform geospatial analysis, and generate reports. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for GIS Analysts was $89,160 in May 2020. The salary range can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and industry. Highly experienced GIS Analysts in specialized fields can earn over $100,000 per year.
GIS Developer/Programmer
GIS Developers specialize in designing and building GIS applications, tools, and customized solutions. They possess strong programming skills and expertise in GIS software development, including coding, scripting, and database management. According to the Geospatial Industry Outlook Report by Geospatial Media, GIS Developers can earn an average salary of $80,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on their experience and geographic location. Senior-level GIS Developers with extensive experience can earn salaries exceeding $130,000 per year.
Remote Sensing Analyst
Remote Sensing Analysts utilize satellite or aerial imagery to analyze and interpret earth observation data. They work on diverse projects such as environmental monitoring, disaster management, agriculture, and natural resource exploration. The salary range for Remote Sensing Analysts can vary widely based on factors such as experience, specialization, and the industry they work in. According to Pay Scale, the average salary for Remote Sensing Analysts ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 per year, with senior-level professionals earning even higher salaries.
GIS Administrator
GIS Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining GIS systems and databases within an organization. Day-to-day activities for GIS Administrators include system maintenance and upgrades, data quality control, user administration, troubleshooting technical issues, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring data security and backup.
GIS Technicians
They work closely with GIS Analysts, Developers, and other professionals to ensure the accuracy and quality of spatial data and contribute to the successful implementation of GIS projects. GIS Technicians play a vital role in managing and analyzing spatial data within GIS systems. They support various stages of GIS projects, ensuring data accuracy, database management, and map production.
As GIS is still a relatively new technology, there are thousands of GIS applications waiting to fuse into various industries.
Salary Potential with a GIS Degree
Like most careers, positions can range from entry-level to senior. At the lower end of the pay scale, technicians and draftsmen typically earn the least. For these types of positions, skills include databases, CAD, and mapping.
As you move into a higher pay scale, there are more specialized jobs. For example, remote sensing and LiDAR analysts are part of the mid-range pay scale. Also, we start to see GIS developers and programmers who create the GIS software that analysts and cartographers use.
At the top of the pay scale, senior GIS positions dominate the salary list. For example, GIS project managers execute and close projects. Also, senior software engineers have the experience and education necessary to design, develop, and maintain software.
Career Outlook for GIS Degree Graduates
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), geographers earn an average of $85,430 annually. Currently, the outlook is at 3% but the outlook changes often. On the other hand, cartographers and photogrammetrists earn an average $68,380 per year with a job outlook to grow 15% from 2018 to 2028. Overall, this is much faster than the average rate of growth.
According to Indeed, GIS developers and managers account for the highest percentage of job postings. In this line chart, GIS has been steady for job prospects.
