How to become a GIS technician

Is becoming a GIS technician right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do GIS technicians do?

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How to become a GIS Technician

To become a GIS (Geographic Information System) technician, follow these steps:

  • Education: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Geography, Geospatial Science, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. Coursework in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, spatial analysis, and database management is beneficial. Some employers may require a master's degree for advanced positions.
  • Gain Experience: Gain practical experience in GIS through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions. Look for opportunities to work with GIS software tools, spatial data analysis, and cartographic design. Building a portfolio of GIS projects can demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential employers.
  • Develop Technical Skills: Familiarize yourself with GIS software tools commonly used in the industry, such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or other open-source GIS platforms. Learn how to use these tools to manage geographic data, perform spatial analysis, create maps, and visualize spatial information.
  • Specialize: Consider specializing in a specific area of GIS, such as spatial analysis, remote sensing, cartography, environmental GIS, or urban planning. Developing expertise in a specialized area can enhance your career prospects and opportunities for advancement.
  • Networking: Network with professionals in the GIS industry through professional associations, conferences, seminars, and online forums. Join GIS-related organizations such as the American Association of Geographers (AAG), the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA), or the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI).
  • Certification: Consider obtaining GIS certification to demonstrate your skills and knowledge to employers. The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) offers the Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification, which requires education, experience, and passing an examination (see below).
  • Apply for Jobs: Search for GIS technician positions on job boards, company websites, government agencies, and consulting firms. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your education, experience, technical skills, and any relevant GIS projects or certifications. Be prepared for interviews by showcasing your GIS knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
  • Continuing Education: Stay current with developments in GIS technology, software tools, and industry trends through continuing education, professional development courses, and workshops. Pursue opportunities for lifelong learning to expand your knowledge and expertise in GIS.

Certifications
There are several certifications available for GIS technicians, which can enhance their qualifications and demonstrate expertise in GIS technology and spatial analysis. Some notable certifications for GIS technicians include:

  • Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP): Offered by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI), the GISP certification is a widely recognized credential for GIS professionals. It requires a combination of education, experience, and contributions to the GIS community, as well as passing an examination covering various aspects of GIS knowledge and skills.
  • Esri Technical Certification: Esri, the leading provider of GIS software (including ArcGIS), offers several technical certifications for GIS professionals, including Desktop, Developer, Enterprise, and Specialty certifications. These certifications demonstrate proficiency in using Esri software tools and are valuable for individuals working with Esri products.
  • UAS Mapping Certification: The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) offers the UAS Mapping Certification for professionals working with unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drones for mapping and remote sensing applications. This certification validates proficiency in collecting, processing, and analyzing geospatial data acquired from UAS platforms.
  • GISCI Exam for Recertification: GISCI offers an exam for recertification, which allows certified GIS professionals to maintain their GISP credential by demonstrating continued professional development and staying current with changes in the GIS field. This exam is typically required every five years to renew the GISP certification.
  • Vendor-Specific Certifications: Some GIS software vendors and providers offer vendor-specific certifications for professionals who use their products. For example, Trimble offers certifications for Trimble Geospatial software, while Intergraph (Hexagon) offers certifications for Hexagon Geospatial software.