How to Be GIS Developer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 15, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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GIS Developers are responsible for the design and development of geographic information systems. They use various tools and technologies to create, develop, and maintain GIS systems. As a result, GIS developers are essential for providing accurate and up-to-date data on maps, satellite images, and other types of geospatial information.

By creating sophisticated GIS applications, they enable users to visualize, analyze, and interpret geographic information, allowing organizations to make informed decisions. GIS Developers are also necessary for ensuring the security of GIS applications, as well as making sure that the data is kept up-to-date and accessible. Their invaluable knowledge and experience with GIS technologies is essential for the success of any organization in the current digital landscape.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Degree. The first step towards becoming a GIS Developer is to obtain a degree in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or a related field such as Geography, Computer Science, or Engineering. A GIS degree is the best way to learn the fundamentals of GIS and prepare for a career as a GIS Developer.
Obtain Work Experience. Its important to gain work experience in order to become a GIS Developer. This experience can be obtained through internships or part-time work at a GIS firm or government agency.
Learn Programming Languages. GIS Developers need to be proficient in a variety of programming languages such as JavaScript, HTML, and Python. Its important to keep up with the latest technologies and learn new languages as needed.
Become Familiar with GIS Software. GIS Developers need to be comfortable with a variety of GIS software packages, such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and others. Its important to familiarize yourself with the different features and functions of the different software packages.
Develop Your Own Projects. GIS Developers should also develop their own projects. This will help them become more familiar with the process and provide them with real-world experience that can be useful when developing projects for clients.
Attend Conferences. Attending conferences and seminars related to GIS can be a great way to network and stay up to date on the latest trends in the industry. This will also help you build relationships with other professionals and expand your knowledge base.
Get Certified. Getting certified in GIS software can help you stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Most certifications require a certain level of experience, so make sure you have the necessary qualifications before applying for certification.
Apply for Jobs. Once you have obtained the necessary qualifications and experience, you can start applying for jobs as a GIS Developer. Companies are always looking for experienced professionals, so make sure your resume stands out from the crowd.

The demand for GIS developers has been increasing rapidly as businesses realize the potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to improve operations and gain competitive advantages. This has caused a surge in the need of qualified and experienced GIS developers which has led to a rise in the salaries offered to them. As GIS developers possess a unique set of skills, companies are willing to pay top dollar for their expertise.

Their skills include being able to create complex spatial datasets, maintain, update, and design GIS databases, write advanced scripts and programs, create custom GIS applications, and develop sophisticated GIS-based solutions. GIS developers also need to be highly knowledgeable in current GIS software and technologies, and have the ability to understand customer needs and develop applications accordingly. With their knowledge and experience, GIS developers are capable of providing businesses with efficient, cost-effective solutions that can help increase productivity and profitability.

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Job Description

GIS Software Developer: Develop, maintain, and upgrade GIS software applications to ensure optimal performance. Design and modify GIS databases, geodatabases, and other related systems.
GIS Analyst: Collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information from a variety of sources. Identify spatial relationships and patterns in data, and develop custom mapping solutions.
GIS Project Manager: Coordinate GIS projects and manage teams of GIS professionals. Develop project plans, implement GIS strategies, and analyze project results.
GIS Technician: Collect, process, and analyze geospatial data to support GIS projects. Utilize expert knowledge of GIS tools to develop maps and graphics.
GIS Web Developer: Design, develop, and maintain web-based GIS applications. Create databases and develop custom user interfaces for GIS applications.
GIS Data Administrator: Manage and maintain large-scale GIS databases and related systems. Monitor data quality and integrity, and ensure data is properly stored, archived, and backed up.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to design, develop, and implement GIS applications from start to finish.
Knowledge of geospatial data formats and standards, including ESRI shapefiles, GeoTIFFs, GeoJSON, KML/KMZ, WMS/WFS services, etc.
Ability to create and maintain a variety of GIS-based tools and datasets, such as geoprocessing scripts and models, feature classes, geodatabases, topologies, terrain datasets, cartographic representations, and spatial databases.
Proficiency with GIS platforms such as ESRI ArcGIS Desktop and Server, QGIS, and Open Source GIS.
Familiarity with application development frameworks such as ArcObjects, JavaScript API, and other GIS development tools.
Knowledge of web-based GIS technologies such as ArcGIS Online, Web Maps, and ArcGIS Enterprise.
Experience in creating user-friendly and intuitive GIS-based interfaces for users with varying levels of technical skill.
Ability to collaborate with other developers to ensure the successful integration of GIS systems into existing web and mobile applications.
Understanding of the core principles of GIS, including coordinate systems, map projections, spatial analysis, and data visualization.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for interacting with stakeholders and presenting technical information.

Having strong GIS development skills is essential for those seeking to build successful GIS applications. GIS developers must have a thorough understanding of spatial analysis, database management, and programming concepts in order to develop effective software solutions. they must have a strong background in computer science and engineering, as well as be adept in writing code that can handle complex tasks.

They must also have an eye for detail, as well as a good understanding of user experience design. By having a strong foundation in these areas, GIS developers can create software that meets the needs of their clients and provides reliable solutions. As a result, this can lead to increased customer satisfaction and the achievement of high-quality results.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with GIS systems?
What challenges have you faced in developing GIS applications?
How have you used GIS to solve complex problems?
Describe your experience working with GIS databases and their structures.
How familiar are you with GIS programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and SQL?
What techniques do you use for data visualization in GIS?
How do you handle spatial analysis with GIS systems?
How do you collaborate with other GIS professionals to ensure accuracy of data?
What strategies do you use to ensure successful implementation of GIS projects?
Describe a time when you faced a difficult problem while developing a GIS application and how you overcame it.

Common Tools in Industry

ArcGIS Pro. A desktop Geographic Information System (GIS) for analyzing and visualizing geographic data. (eg: Creating 3D maps with ArcGIS Pro)
ArcGIS API for JavaScript. A JavaScript library that enables developers to build web-based mapping applications with performance optimization tools. (eg: Creating interactive maps with the ArcGIS API for JavaScript)
ArcGIS Online. A cloud-based platform for creating and sharing maps, apps, and data. (eg: Publishing data to ArcGIS Online)
ArcObjects SDK. A collection of software development kits (SDKs) for creating custom GIS applications using the ArcGIS platform. (eg: Developing a custom mapping application with the ArcObjects SDK)
Esri Python API. An API which enables developers to write scripts and applications in Python to automate tasks and create custom GIS applications. (eg: Automating mapping tasks with the Esri Python API)
Web AppBuilder for ArcGIS. A browser-based application that enables developers to create dynamic GIS web applications without writing code. (eg: Creating an interactive application with Web AppBuilder for ArcGIS)

Professional Organizations to Know

Esri User Conference (EsriUC)
GIS Development
GIS In Action
GeoHipster
Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo)
Association of American Geographers (AAG)
Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA)
Geospatial Information and Technology Association (GITA)
International Cartographic Association (ICA)
International Association for Geodesy (IAG)

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Common Important Terms

Geospatial Analysis. A type of analysis that uses geographical data to study interactions between physical and human elements of an environment.
Geoprocessing. The process of converting geographic data into meaningful information by applying algorithms and methods to manipulate and analyze the data.
GIS Data Model. A representation of the spatial relationships between geographic features that is used to store and analyze geographic data.
Geodatabase. A database system designed to store, query, and analyze geospatial data.
Cartography. The art, science, and technology of creating maps.
Remote Sensing. The use of sensors to measure the Earth's surface from a distance.
Spatial Data Infrastructure. A collection of technologies, policies, standards, and human resources necessary for the creation, management, and distribution of geospatial data.
Web Mapping. The process of creating interactive maps for the web.
Location Intelligence. The process of turning location-based data into actionable insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a GIS Developer?

A GIS Developer is a professional who specializes in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, which is used to capture, store, analyze and display geographic and spatial data.

What skills are required for a GIS Developer?

GIS Developers must possess a variety of skills, including technical expertise in software development, data analysis and geographic visualization; knowledge of GIS concepts and tools; experience in database design and management; and strong communication and problem-solving skills.

What type of tasks do GIS Developers typically perform?

GIS Developers typically perform tasks such as developing web-based applications and API integrations, designing geospatial databases, creating and managing map visualizations, analyzing spatial data sets, and providing technical support.

What are the job prospects for GIS Developers?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for GIS Developers is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is attributed to increasing demand for these professionals in the public sector and private industry.

What qualifications are necessary to become a GIS Developer?

To become a GIS Developer, individuals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, geography, geospatial engineering, or a related field. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates who have experience working with GIS software and have earned professional certifications in GIS.