How to Be Geospatial Mapping Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 11, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Geospatial mapping specialists are highly-skilled professionals who use geographic information systems (GIS) to create maps, analyze data, and manage resources. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, they are able to identify trends, visualize spatial relationships, and provide valuable insights into our physical environment. Their work helps companies make informed decisions that improve the efficiency of their businesses and the overall quality of life in their communities.

Geospatial mapping specialists play a critical role in various industries such as agriculture, defense, transportation, healthcare, and urban development, to name a few. The effects of their work are evident in the improved accuracy of geographic data, better decision-making processes, improved infrastructure, and increased public safety.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. Geospatial mapping specialists typically need to have a bachelor's degree in a field such as geography, cartography, engineering, or computer science.
Take Courses in Geographic Information Systems. Prospective geospatial mapping specialists should take courses in geographic information systems (GIS). These courses teach the fundamentals of the technology used by geospatial mapping specialists to analyze and interpret geographic data.
Obtain Certification. Many potential employers may require that applicants for geospatial mapping specialist positions have certification in GIS technology. There are several organizations that offer GIS certification.
Gain Experience. While still in school, geospatial mapping specialists should gain experience through internships or part-time jobs working with GIS technology.
Get Familiar With GPS Technology. Geospatial mapping specialists should become familiar with GPS technology and related software programs. This knowledge is essential for interpreting and managing geographic data.

In order to stay ahead and capable as a Geospatial Mapping Specialist, one must continually stay on top of emerging trends and technologies in the field. This includes keeping up to date with new mapping software, technologies, and tools, such as Geographic Information Science (GIS). staying abreast of advancements in satellite imagery and earth observation systems is critical for staying ahead in the field.

Finally, having an understanding of the development and applications of drones can help a Geospatial Mapping Specialist stay ahead of the competition. By effectively utilizing the latest tools and technologies, a Geospatial Mapping Specialist can remain capable and competitive in the field.

You may want to check Geospatial Systems Administrator, Geospatial Research Analyst, and Geospatial Technology Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Geospatial Analyst
GIS Technician
Geomatics Engineer
Geo-Database Administrator
Remote Sensing Scientist
Cartographer
Geospatial Developer
Spatial Data Scientist
Geospatial Software Engineer
Location Intelligence Specialist

Skills and Competencies to Have

Proficiency in GIS software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Global Mapper
Knowledge of spatial analysis techniques
Ability to develop and maintain geospatial data
Experience with data collection, management, and visualization
Ability to interpret geographic information systems (GIS) data
Knowledge of GPS/GNSS technology and surveying principles
Understanding of cartographic principles and production methods
Ability to develop maps, charts, graphs and diagrams
Working knowledge of SQL and database management systems
Familiarity with remote sensing technology and data analysis
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Detail-oriented and organized work ethic

Geospatial mapping specialists must have an in-depth knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS) and geographic information technologies (GIT). These professionals are responsible for the collection, analysis and management of geographic data. Their job requires the ability to interpret and manipulate spatial data sets, create dynamic maps and perform spatial analysis.

In addition, geospatial mapping specialists must possess strong communication and problem-solving skills in order to effectively present complex data in a meaningful way. By having these skills, geospatial mapping specialists are able to identify patterns, trends and relationships between geographic features, which in turn can be used to make informed decisions, solve problems, and develop innovative solutions. Furthermore, the ability to work with other stakeholders and have a good understanding of the policy implications of their work is essential.

Overall, geospatial mapping specialists play an important role in the decision-making process and thus must have the necessary skills to be effective in their jobs.

Geospatial Data Manager, Geospatial Data Architect, and Geospatial Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What is your experience with geospatial mapping and analysis?
What tools and software have you used to perform geospatial mapping and analysis?
How do you stay up to date on the latest advancements in GIS technology?
What challenges have you faced when working with geospatial data?
Describe a project that you have successfully completed involving geospatial mapping and analysis.
What processes do you use to ensure quality control and accuracy of the geospatial data?
How would you go about finding solutions to difficult spatial problems?
Have you ever implemented geospatial solutions in a production environment?
How do you collaborate effectively with stakeholders when developing geospatial solutions?
What is the most complex geospatial mapping or analysis project that you have worked on?

Common Tools in Industry

ArcGIS. A geographic information system (GIS) used to create and manage spatial data and analyze spatial relationships. (e. g. Used to map out population density in a region).
QGIS. An open source GIS software with a wide range of features to support data management, analysis and visualization. (e. g. Used to analyze land use changes over time).
Google Earth Pro. A satellite imaging and mapping software that provides comprehensive global coverage, allowing users to view satellite imagery, aerial photography, 3D building models and more. (e. g. Used to track climate change in urban areas).
MapInfo. A desktop GIS software that provides tools for storing, managing, analyzing and visualizing geospatial data. (e. g. Used to create a digital elevation model of a region).
Earth Engine. A cloud-based platform for geospatial analysis and visualization of large-scale datasets. (e. g. Used to create a climate risk model for a city).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association for Geographers (AAG)
International Association of Geodesy (IAG)
American Geophysical Union (AGU)
United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF)
International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS)
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Association
Association of American Geographers (AAG)
European Association of Remote Sensing Laboratories (EARSeL)
International Society for Digital Earth (ISDE)
Global Spatial Data Infrastructure Association (GSDI)

We also have Geospatial Software Developer, Geospatial Applications Specialist, and Geospatial Data Scientist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

GIS (Geographic Information System). GIS is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present all types of spatial or geographical data.
GPS (Global Positioning System). GPS is a satellite-based navigation system used to determine the exact location of objects on Earth.
Remote Sensing. Remote sensing is a technology that uses sensors mounted on aerial platforms, such as satellites and aircrafts, to collect data about the Earth's surface.
Cartography. Cartography is the practice and science of making maps. It involves the art, techniques, and science of creating, editing, and interpreting maps.
Topography. Topography is the study of the shape and features of land surfaces.
Geodata. Geodata is the collection of geographic data, such as coordinates, locations, and elevation that can be used to represent features on a map.
Geographic Projection. A geographic projection is a mathematical method of transforming the curved surface of the earth onto a flat map.
Spatial Analysis. Spatial analysis is the use of spatial data and techniques to answer questions about the world. It can be used to help identify patterns, trends, and relationships in a geographic area.
Geovisualization. Geovisualization is the process of creating visual representations of geographical data in order to better understand and communicate spatial information.
Proximity Analysis. Proximity analysis is a type of spatial analysis used to identify relationships between objects that are close to one another in space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Geospatial Mapping Specialist?

A Geospatial Mapping Specialist is a professional who specializes in the analysis, interpretation, and presentation of geographic information. They use various mapping tools and technologies to create maps and spatial data, and analyze spatial relationships.

What skills are needed to be a Geospatial Mapping Specialist?

To be a successful Geospatial Mapping Specialist, one must be knowledgeable in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, cartography, GPS (Global Positioning System), and other geospatial technologies. They must also have an understanding of data analysis, statistics, programming, and visualization.

What kind of organizations hire Geospatial Mapping Specialists?

Geospatial Mapping Specialists are often employed by government agencies, engineering and architecture firms, environmental organizations, universities, and businesses that need to make use of geographical data.

What kind of tasks does a Geospatial Mapping Specialist typically perform?

A typical task for a Geospatial Mapping Specialist may involve collecting and processing data from various sources, such as satellite imagery and aerial photographs. They may then use GIS software to create maps, analyze spatial relationships, and generate reports. They may also develop models to identify trends and patterns in the data.

What is the median annual salary for a Geospatial Mapping Specialist?

According to PayScale, the median annual salary for a Geospatial Mapping Specialist is $66,945. Salaries can vary depending on experience and the type of employer.