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

Jul 6, 2022 / 4 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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Steps How to Become

Obtain a Degree. To become a GIS Drafter, you will need to obtain a degree in a relevant field such as geography, computer science, engineering, or a related field.
Gain Experience. Gaining experience in the field of GIS drafting is important. You can do this by completing internships and/or volunteer work.
Pursue Certification. Pursuing certification in GIS drafting is highly recommended. There are several certifications available through organizations such as the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).
Network. Networking is essential in any field, and GIS drafting is no different. Get to know other GIS drafters, attend conferences, and join professional organizations in order to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
Stay Current. Staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in GIS drafting is essential for success. Attend workshops, seminars, and read industry publications in order to stay on top of the latest developments.

Having a reliable and competent GIS drafter is critical to the success of any GIS project. Without a drafter who is well-versed in the software and its capabilities, any project will be doomed to failure. Errors in data accuracy, incorrect interpretations of spatial data, and poor presentation of results can all be attributed to a lack of knowledge and experience.

Investing in a GIS drafter who is familiar with the software and its associated processes will ensure that the project is completed accurately and efficiently. Having a drafter who is confident in their ability to collect, analyze, and present data will provide peace of mind to those who are managing the project and looking for results that are both reliable and accurate.

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Job Description

Create and update GIS maps and related documents for land development projects
Collect, interpret, and analyze spatial data
Prepare accurate cartographic representations of data
Design new GIS databases and convert existing spatial data into GIS formats
Maintain GIS documentation, such as metadata and user manuals
Develop GIS applications and tools
Utilize GIS software to develop maps and visual representations of data
Analyze spatial relationships between features and integrate data from multiple sources
Generate reports to summarize GIS data
Provide technical support and training to users of GIS systems

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of GIS software, such as ESRIs ArcGIS
Ability to interpret and analyze spatial data
Proficiency in using drafting tools and software
Knowledge of cartographic principles, such as map projections, scales, and coordinate systems
Understanding of geographic information systems (GIS)
Excellent research and problem-solving skills
Ability to work with large datasets
Attention to detail and accuracy
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Time management and organizational skills

The most important skill for a GIS Drafter is the ability to interpret and analyze geospatial data. This involves the use of specialized software and techniques to create maps and other visual representations of geographic information. Having an understanding of GIS principles and techniques is critical for success in this profession.

Furthermore, strong problem solving and analytical skills are necessary to accurately interpret data and create accurate representations of geographic information. creativity and artistic talent can be beneficial for creating visually appealing maps and other graphics. Finally, having a good understanding of cartography and how to effectively communicate spatial information can help GIS Drafters to effectively present their work.

All these skills are essential for a successful career as a GIS Drafter.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have using GIS software and systems?
How do you manage competing demands on your time and resources?
How comfortable are you working with spatial data?
How do you ensure accuracy when drafting GIS maps?
Describe the most complex GIS project you have worked on.
What challenges have you encountered when working with GIS data?
How do you stay up to date with the latest GIS technologies?
What techniques do you use to effectively visualize GIS data?
Describe how you collaborate with other departments to create GIS maps.
What strategies do you use to ensure successful implementation of GIS projects?

Common Tools in Industry

AutoCAD. A computer-aided drafting (CAD) software program used to create 2D and 3D drawings. (eg: creating architectural plans and engineering drawings)
ArcGIS. A suite of powerful software tools used for mapping and analyzing geographic data. (eg: creating maps and spatial models)
MicroStation. A powerful CAD software program used to create high-precision drawings and detailed designs. (eg: designing roads, railroads, and other large engineering projects)
SketchUp. 3D modeling software used to create 3D models of buildings, landscapes, and other objects. (eg: creating 3D models of homes and other structures)
Bluebeam Revu. A software tool used to create, edit, and annotate PDF documents. (eg: editing PDFs of construction plans)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
American Planning Association (APA)
Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA)
Cartography and Geographic Information Society (CaGIS)
International Cartographic Association (ICA)
Geographic Information Industry Association (GIIA)
National Association of GIS Professionals (NAGPS)
National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE)
International Association for GIS Professionals (IAGIS)
American Association for Geographers (AAG)

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Common Important Terms

CAD Software. Computer-aided design software used for creating detailed two-dimensional and three-dimensional designs and drawings.
GIS Data. Geographic information system data used to store, manipulate, analyze, and visualize geographic data.
Topological Relationships. The relationships between connected objects in a GIS map.
Vector Data. Data stored in a GIS as points, lines, and polygons that define the shape and location of geographic features.
Raster Data. Data stored in a GIS as a grid of pixels that represent the location and value of geographic features.
Georeferencing. The process of relating a raster or vector dataset to a specific geographic coordinate system so that it can be used in a GIS.
Coding and Scripting. Writing code or scripts to automate processes in a GIS, such as data transformation, analysis, and visualization.
Metadata. Information about the contents, origin, and purpose of a dataset that is used to interpret and understand the data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a GIS Drafter?

A GIS Drafter is a professional who specializes in the creation and maintenance of geographic information systems (GIS) maps and documents.

What type of software do GIS Drafters use?

GIS Drafters typically use software such as ArcGIS Desktop and AutoCAD to create and manage digital GIS maps and documents.

What qualifications do GIS Drafters need?

GIS Drafters typically need an associate's degree in cartography, geography or a related field, as well as practical experience in GIS software.

How much do GIS Drafters earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for GIS Drafters is $50,884 per year.

What types of organizations use GIS Drafters?

Organizations such as engineering firms, local governments, and civil engineering firms often employ GIS Drafters to create and maintain GIS maps and documents.