Geographic Information Systems Officer, GIS Officer - Career Advice - Research and Development

Geographic Information Systems Manager
Geomatics Plan Technician
Remote Sensing Technician

Geographic information systems [GIS] officers design, develop and customise geographic information systems and provide technical and analytical support to address issues such as environmental management, exploration and mining, land ownership and titles, urban and regional planning, utilities and asset management, and demographic marketing. Future Growth Very Strong GIS Officers acquire, integrate, analyse, interpret, present, manage and distribute information about locations in space and time, and develop related equipment, software and services.

The cartographic and analytical output produced by geographic information systems officers is used to aid in the efficient management and use of land assets within Australia.

ANZSCO ID: 232214

Alternative names: GIS Technician, GIS Data Scientist, Land Information Systems Officer, Spatial Information Systems Officer, Surveying Technologist and Spatial Information Systems Technician.

Specialisations: Aerial Survey Technician, Photogrammetrist

Cartographer: designs, prepares and revises maps, charts, plans, three-dimensional models and spatial information databases, often using computer-based techniques and applying principles from science, mathematics and graphic design. Cartographers apply these elements to represent, analyse and manage essential spatial information that services the mining, mineral exploration, mapping, marketing, web publishing, regional planning and environmental management industries.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

able to analyse and solve problems

good communication and computing skills

interested in the environment

able to produce detailed and accurate work

able to work as part of a team

GIS Officer
(Source: Good Universities Guide)

Duties and Tasks

Geographic information systems officers may perform the following tasks:

manipulate and analyse data such as geographic and land information source maps and survey data

link spatial data for land administration purposes

develop and customise computer programmes used in geographic information systems (GIS)

prepare, edit and revise cartographic output for the preparation, reproduction and publication of maps

prepares, edits and revises maps, charts and drawings

assists construction managers, architects and surveyors in planning and organisation

collects data using surveying instruments and photogrammetric equipment

interprets plans, regulations and codes of practice

performs routine computations and plotting preliminary data

prepares preliminary sketches, working drawings and specifications

determines the position of points of interest on the earth's surface including marine floors, and preparing the final product data in digital form

supervises the preparation of plans, maps, charts and drawings to give pictorial representations and managing spatial information systems

undertakes research and development of surveying and photogrammetric measurement systems, cadastral systems and land information systems

plans and designing land subdivision projects and negotiating details with local governments and other authorities

advises other scientists relevant professionals on the technical requirements of surveying, mapping and spatial information systems

compiles and evaluating data, interpreting codes of practice, and writing reports concerning survey measurement, land use and tenure

prepares site plans and survey reports required for conveyancing and land ownership matters

evaluates, compiles and maintains spatial information using a range of digital and graphical source materials, including aerial photographs, satellite imagery, survey documents, existing maps and records, historical data, reports and statistics

analyses and interprets data to design maps, graphs, plans, drawings and three-dimensional models using geographic information and related systems

develops and trials new applications for use in geographic information systems

supervises and co-ordinates the work of surveying or spatial science technicians in the production and reproduction of geographic products.

Working conditions

.Geographical information systems officers frequently switch between field-based and office-based work. Fieldwork often involves working long and irregular hours. Extra travel depends on the amount of client and multidisciplinary interaction required. The cartographic and analytical output produced by geographic information systems officers is used to aid in the efficient management and use of land assets within Australia.

Tools and technologies

GIS technicians regularly use these tools; those looking to build a career in this field should have a firm understanding of how to use them: GIS Tools – GIS Cartography, GIS Analysis, GIS Modeling
Design Software – AutoCAD, ArcView

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a geographic information systems officer you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in spatial information services. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have a degree with a major in geographical, spatial or geospatial science; geography; geomatics or surveying. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study.

Additional Information

Graduates and students may be eligible for membership of the Surveying and Spatial Sciences Institute and the Mapping Sciences Institute, Australia.

Employment Opportunities

The major employers of geographic information systems officers are federal, state, territory and local government organisations; statutory authorities; and private companies involved in land use, planning and management. There is a demand for specialist skills, ranging from systems development (designing and building geographic databases, spatial management and analysis tools, and web delivery systems) to the application of geographic information systems to provide specialist solutions in environmental, business and development activities.

Did You Know?

What is GIS?

A geographic information system (GIS) is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates many types of data. It analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes. With this unique capability, GIS reveals deeper insights into data, such as patterns, relationships, and situations—helping users make smarter decisions. GIS technology applies geographic science with tools for understanding and collaboration. It helps people reach a common goal: to gain actionable intelligence from all types of data.
(Source: ESRI)

Geospatial Information Career Video
https://youtu.be/Zgsi2bTKEV8

Geographical information systems (GIS) managers are responsible for the day-to-day supervision of teams of IT experts that produce geographical data using specialist computer systems. Geographical information systems managers are the senior professionals responsible for managing teams of geographical information systems officers, cartographers and data analysts. Future Growth Static

Geographical information systems are computer systems used to analyse spatial and geographical data.

ANZSCO ID: 232214

Alternative names: Geographic Information Systems Project Manager

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Employers look for candidates with strong problem-solving, project management, analytical, organisational, time management, interpersonal, leadership and communication skills. Candidates must also be able to demonstrate a genuine interest in and commitment to the field.

By the time you become a geographical information systems manager, your training will move away from the technical aspect of the job and focus more on project management skills.

GIS explained
A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer system for capturing, storing, checking, and displaying data related to positions on Earth’s surface.
GIS can show many different kinds of data on one map, such as streets, buildings, and vegetation.
This enables people to more easily see, analyze, and understand patterns and relationships.
(Source: National Geographic)

Duties and Tasks

Geographical information systems combine social, economic and topographical data that is used for a variety of purposes including flood defence planning, healthcare, road traffic management, and market research. GIS managers supervise their production. Rather than collecting and analysing geographical data generated by geographical information systems (GIS), GIS managers focus their efforts on team management, budget control and building client relationships.

GIS managers may also be responsible for researching, evaluating and procuring new GIS equipment to increase project efficiency.

supervising a team of staff including programmers, cartographers, data managers, analysts and support specialists
managing budgets and project costs
consulting clients to ascertain project purpose, needs and information required
recruiting and training staff
negotiating contracts
managing the development of GIS software packages
evaluating the functionality of systems
purchasing new equipment to improve project efficiency
keeping up to date with new technology
making sure that projects keep to pre-determined deadlines
investigating new GIS applications.

Working conditions

Geographical information systems managers frequently switch between field-based and office-based work. Fieldwork often involves working long and irregular hours. Extra travel depends on the amount of client and multidisciplinary interaction required.

Education and training/entrance requirements

It is possible to enter this profession with a university degree in any subject. However, some employers favour relevant subjects such as geographic information science, geography, computer science, surveying or urban planning. Gaining a postgraduate GIS qualification is advantageous, particularly for graduates without relevant qualifications and/or experience.

Graduates often enter the industry in GIS technician roles and work up to management positions with several years’ experience. Any work experience gained via industrial placements, summer internships or insight programmes is beneficial.

Employment Opportunities

Typical employers of geographical information systems managers:

Specialist software development companies and consultancies
Utilities companies

Telecommunications companies

Insurance companies

Local authorities and police authorities

Emergency services

Government departments (such as Land Registry)

Motor vehicle rescue services

Vacancies are advertised by careers services and specialist recruitment agencies, in local and national newspapers, online, on local authority jobs lists (for example, that of the Association for Geographic Information) and in relevant publications including Computer Weekly, Computing and New Scientist, plus their respective websites.

Initial professional positions can be difficult to secure, so networking and speculative applications are worthwhile.

Once you have become a geographical information systems manager, opportunities for career progression are fairly limited. However, you could become a freelance GIS consultant. Alternatively, you could become an academic and teach subjects, such as spatial analysis, to the next generation of geographical information systems officers.

Life on the Job - Cameo

Melanie

“My role allows me to uphold State Government values and to contribute to and serve the people of NSW and our environment.”

“I’m continually learning new things,” enthuses Melanie, GIS Officer for the Local Land Services division of NSW Department of Industry, Skills and Regional Development.

In her role, Melanie takes on a variety of duties to support the gathering of accurate and reliable mapping data for the benefit of protecting land in NSW.

“I work for both regional North Coast and the State to assist with a diverse range of projects – from mapping weeds and wild dogs, to assisting Landcare and other organisations. Computer-based mapping is becoming more relied on, and I contribute to this service in my role too,” Melanie explains.

Although her diverse role means she’s always on her toes, Melanie thoroughly enjoys being able to work in a role where no two days are ever the same, and that allows her to work on projects making a difference to our State and wider community.

“I love the diversity of both the work and the staff I work with every day, and working on projects that are of state and national importance,” Melanie relates enthusiastically.

“The work is demanding with many projects and deadlines, but it’s a great opportunity to contribute to the range of work being done.”

Outside of work, Melanie enjoys running, travelling, good food, and outdoor activities.
(Source: I work for NSW Govt)

Geomatics plan technicians are responsible for using specialized computer software (such as AutoCAD Land Desktop) to produce legal and engineering survey drawings, GIS themes, maps, digital terrain models, cross sections and horizontal alignments from manual and digital field notes. They work closely with geographic information systems project managers in order to support fulfillment of internal and external survey data management and mapping systems and services.

ANZSCO ID: 312116

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Enjoy providing technical guidance and support
Enjoy analyzing information and finding innovative solutions to problems
Enjoy compiling information and researching plans
Able to build rapport with team members and customers
Able to deliver products and services within an established timeframe
Able to isolate, identify and correct errors
Able to manage changing priorities
Able to interpret and apply survey principles, practices and standards
Able to interpret survey data from survey field notes, to determine relevant field measurements
Able to interpret and apply survey related legislation such as the Surveys Act, Registry Act, Land Titles Act, and others
Proficiency in Computer Aided Design (CAD), GIS tools, software and databases

Geomatics
(Source: GeoDataPoint)

Duties and Tasks

Generate legal and engineering survey products using computer aided design techniques and geographic information systems (GIS) tools
Use GIS to assist in data management, manipulation and analysis
Based on data analysis, prepare business theme layers and thematic maps
Troubleshoot data issues and locate the source of errors in order to correct
Ensure client satisfaction with regards to external projects
Gather, manage, translate and maintain complex survey and geographic digital data sets
Follow and implement pre-defined data models and GIS data structures
Maintain quality assurance procedures with regards to mapping
Produce Engineering and Title Records using plans, deeds, digital maps, and other data from outside agencies
Create time estimates by researching plans, documents, compiling various information
Archive plans, alignments, cross-sections and other data sets into file management systems

Tools and technologies

Proficiency in specialized computer software (e.g. AutoCAD Land Desktop), digital terrain modeling, alignments, drafting techniques and standards
Proficiency in GIS tools, software and databases
Able to use map projections and datum to prepare geomatics generated products using AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Access, and Excel

Education and training/entrance requirements

You'll likely need a two-year diploma or an associate’s degree in engineering technology, geomatics, or a closely related field. Some employers may hire geomatics plan technicians without any formal education and teach them on the job, although it is not common.

Make sure to do your research on post-secondary programs in geomatics and engineering technology in order to make sure you choose a TAFE and a program that will provide you with a specialized skill set that will qualify you to work as a geomatics plan technician, including:

Proficiency in specialized computer software (e.g. AutoCAD Land Desktop), digital terrain modeling, alignments, drafting techniques and standards
Proficiency in GIS tools, software and databases
Able to use map projections and datum to prepare geomatics generated products using AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Access, and Excel

Employment Opportunities

Geomatics plan technicians are hired on a part-time, full-time or contractual basis by a variety of small, medium and large employers, including:

Federal and State or Territory governments
Universities

Engineering and architectural consulting companies

Environmental consulting companies

Oil, gas and mining companies

Service firms to oil, gas and mining companies

Surveying and mapping companies

Forestry consulting firms

Computer software companies

Natural resource companies

Remote sensing technicians apply remote sensing technologies to assist scientists in areas such as urban planning, flight planning or natural resource management. A large part of their job involves analyzing data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

ANZSCO ID: 312116

Knowledge, skills and attributes

In order to become effective in a career as a remote sensing technician you need to posses a certain set of skills and personality traits. These skills and traits will allow you to perform your job duties with competence, and will help you maintain a positive attitude towards your work.

Organizations that employ remote sensing technicians prefer to hire candidates with these skills and traits, and as a result, you will often see them listed on remote sensing technician job postings.

A keen interest in geography and mapping
An interest in reviewing aerial map and land survey data
A patient and methodical approach to work activities
Proficiency with statistical analysis software, image analysis software, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
A natural aptitude in mathematics
Enjoy working with specialized equipment and instruments at tasks requiring precision
Enjoy analyzing information and finding innovative solutions to problems
The ability to correctly follow a given rule or set of rules in order to arrange things or actions
The ability to work effectively in a team environment

What is Remote Sensing
(Source: Universitat Rostock)

Duties and Tasks

Analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems
Develop automated processes to correct the presence of image distorting objects such as ground vegetation
Prepare and deliver reports and presentations of geospatial project information
Recommend or introduce new remote sensing hardware or software acquisitions
Collect supporting climatic or field survey data to corroborate remote sensing data analysis
Conduct research for the purpose of discovering ways to advance remote sensory technology and systems
Format complied images to increase their usefulness
Direct installation or testing of new remote sensing hardware or software and other equipment

Working conditions

Remote sensing technicians work primarily in office settings, where they analyze data, prepare charts and reports, create and update databases, and consult with other members of inter-disciplinary teams. Remote sensing technicians typically work normal weekday business hours, although they may be required to occasionally work overtime during evenings and weekends, such as when facing upcoming project deadlines.

Tools and technologies

Collect geospatial data, using technologies such as

aerial photography,
light and radio wave detection systems,
digital satellites, or
thermal energy systems

Education and training/entrance requirements

Typically, the minimum educational requirement for employment as a remote sensing technician is a TAFE diploma, although some employers may require a university bachelor’s degree.

The following post-secondary programs are most applicable for a career as a remote sensing technician:

Geographical information systems
Remote sensing
Geography
Geology
Natural resource management
Earth sciences

Employment Opportunities

Remote sensing technicians are employed on a part-time, full-time and contractual basis by the following types of organizations:

Natural resources companies
Forestry and natural resource consulting companies
Engineering and environmental consulting firms
Environmental organizations
Government agencies

Cartographer	Demographer	Forester	Geographer
Hydrologist	Intelligence Analyst	Mining Engineer	SES Officer
Surveyor	University Lecturer	University Tutor	Urban & Regional Planner