Agricultural Careers

Geographic Information Systems

Specialist

By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Ms. Anna Burgess

Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office

Georgia Department of Education

June 2005

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Job Duties & Responsibilities

•Gather data from a variety of sources, such as satellites, tabular data, aerial photography, and maps.

•Sometimes it is necessary to participate in gathering field data, such as mapping, taking samples or placing data markers.

•Use computer technology to combine this data into a single map.

•Draw conclusions from the data created, and present these conclusions to others.

Qualities and Skills

A GIS specialist must enjoy working with computers and must be capable of paying

adequate attention to detail. They should have a strong knowledge of computers

and be patient.

Salary

The salary range for this field depends significantly on degree level and certification, but it can range from $22,000 a year to the low $60,000s (for management positions).

Work Environment

•Office working with a computer, processing data

•In the field, gathering data

Coursework in both high school and college should focus on geography, computer science, engineering, algebra, trigonometry, drafting and geology. From there, many 2-year academic and technical institutions offer education and training in GIS and related fields (such as photogrammetry and remote sensing). Associate degrees and certificate programs in GIS and similar curricula provide a sound foundation for work experience or for transfer to other academic institutions for further education.

It is highly recommended that an individual wishing to pursue a career in this field participate in an internship program to obtain hands-on experience as part of their preparation for employment. And, like in many rapidly advancing high-tech fields, continuing education in GIS is necessary to keep current as a professional.

Education

Career Resources

U.S. Geological Survey509 National CenterReston, VA 20192, USA

Geospatial Information and Technology AssociationInternet: http://www.gita.org

The Imaging and Geospatial Information SocietyInternet: http://www.asprs.org/

GIS for AgricultureInternet: http://www.farmresearch.com/gis/default.asp

Internet Guide to Geographic Information SystemsInternet: http://www.gis.com

United States Geological ServiceInternet: http://erg.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/gis_poster/