What Is a Geographic Information System (GIS) Specialist? Job Outlook and How to Become One

Have you ever wondered who created the map on your smartphone? Who was responsible for turning your city’s geospatial data into usable maps and visualizations, and what tools did they use? Perhaps you have an interest in the field of geographic information systems (GIS)—or maybe you currently work in GIS and want to take your career further.

If so, you’re in luck: a career as a GIS Specialist could be perfect for you. From urban planning to routing emergency vehicles, GIS Specialists make a difference in communities in numerous ways. Let’s take a closer look at this versatile, high-impact career.

Key Takeaways:

• GIS Specialists utilize geographic information systems to manage and analyze geographic data for a wide variety of purposes.
• Crucial skills for a GIS Specialist include mapping, proficiency in geospatial technology, data collection and management, and communication skills.
• GIS Specialists have a strong job outlook, and their skills are widely applicable to numerous roles in the GIS industry.

What Does a GIS Specialist Do?

GIS specialists are responsible for creating and maintaining Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These GIS databases are used to collect, store, and analyze data related to geographic areas. The work of GIS Specialists overlaps with that of GIS Technicians and GIS Analysts. While these are three distinct job titles, they often require the same core competencies in geography and spatial data analysis.

GIS Specialists have many priorities, including GIS data management, ensuring data integrity, and working on specialized projects. Another key aspect of this role is often communicating directly with clients who utilize geographic data in business, construction, and other endeavors. They work in a variety of industries, including government, engineering, environmental consulting, and public health. Anytime a project relies on geographic data, you’ll find a GIS Specialist hard at work.

Essential Skills and Tools

In many ways, GIS Specialists must possess a wide skillset to succeed. Both technical skills and soft skills are crucial to their work.

Technical Skills

To work in GIS, it’s a given that comfort with information systems and geography go hand-in-hand. Your work relies on geospatial technology, such as ESRI ArcGIS software, so it’s crucial to become comfortable with these tools. Some important “overarching” technical skills include data maintenance, mapping, and Python coding. Additionally, you’ll want to be proficient in the following technical areas:

• Geographic modeling
• Analytical computer cartography
• Quantitative geography
• Spatial statistics
• Remote sensing

Soft Skills

While technical skills are a must-have for GIS Specialists, you’ll also need non-technical, interpersonal skills—soft skills—to thrive. Remember that, while GIS Specialists work independently on GIS data and mapping projects, they’re also expected to collaborate with other GIS professionals as well as external clients.

Say your company is working with a construction company, a marketing firm, or an urban planning committee. As the GIS Specialist, you will often be the point of contact when communicating with these clients on projects. This requires strong communication skills, as well as the ability to distill complex data into an engaging, streamlined format. GIS Specialist job descriptions may mention other important soft skills, such as:

• Project management
• Organization
• Creativity
• Problem-solving

How to Become a GIS Specialist: Step-by-Step Guide

While all of this may appear intimidating, the process of becoming a GIS Specialist is rather straightforward. If you’re willing to put in the work, you can jumpstart your GIS career through these steps:

1. Earn a relevant bachelor’s degree. Most GIS Specialists hold a bachelor’s degree in geography, cartography, environmental science, urban planning, public policy, or a related field.
2. Gain experience through internships or entry-level roles. While education is essential, a GIS Specialist’s most advantageous skill is hands-on experience.
3. Learn industry tools and programming languages. As previously discussed, gaining proficiency in ArcGIS, QGIS, and/or Python coding prepares you to work as a GIS Specialist.
4. Build a portfolio of mapping and geospatial projects. When you start applying for GIS Specialist positions, you want to be able to demonstrate your skills through a strong portfolio.
5. Consider professional certifications. Both the GISP® (Certified GIS Professional) and GISP-E® (Emerging GIS Professional) certifications are powerful options for career advancement.

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

As you’ve seen, GIS is critical in a wide range of industries. With this, GIS Specialists are experiencing a positive job outlook. Additionally, while GIS Specialist is an entry-level role, it paves the way for higher salaries as you progress through your career.

Career Growth

The projected employment rate for GIS Specialists is expected to grow by 9% by 2028. This translates to approximately 56,000 new jobs in the multitude of industries we’ve touched on.

Also, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment for cartographers, a role that overlaps with GIS Specialist, will grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033. This is higher than the average for all occupations. The job outlook is similar for surveying and mapping technicians, another employment option for GIS Specialists.

Salary Range

According to Zippia, the 2025 average salary for a GIS Specialist is $65,463. This is a 10% increase over the past ten years, suggesting that salary expectations for this role will continue to rise.

Additionally, as we’ve touched on, experience is paramount in the GIS industry. Once you’ve secured a GIS Specialist role, you can set your sights on eventually progressing into the role of GIS Coordinator or Manager. These senior-level roles have typical salaries upwards of $90,000.

Why a Master’s in GIS Can Elevate Your Career

Perhaps you already hold a bachelor’s degree in geography (or a related field). Maybe you even have a few years under your belt in the GIS industry. Why would you consider earning your master’s in GIS? There are several main advantages that come with a master’s degree.

A graduate GIS program can result in increased earning potential and more career prospects. Through coursework in spatial analysis, data mining, and remote sensing, you can build advanced skills and explore specializations within the field. A master’s program also provides you with experience in geospatial technologies like ArcGIS, QGIS, and other ESRI software and databases.

If you’re aiming to become a GIS Coordinator or Manager someday, then a master’s degree in GIS is also extremely beneficial. Paired with ample hands-on experience in the field, a master’s degree will help you stand out from other applicants to senior-level positions.

Discover How UC Online Can Help Your GIS Journey

At the University of Cincinnati, our online Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems is the key to your dream career. Ideal for those who are currently working in the GIS field, this program combines instruction from expert faculty with support from UC’s dedicated online staff. Best of all, you can earn your degree asynchronously and at your own pace. 

So what are you waiting for? If you have questions about the MS in Geographic Information Systems or want to start the application process, contact your Enrollment Services Advisor today! UC is here to help you reach your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do GIS Specialists make in the US?

A GIS Specialist’s salary will vary depending on their sector, experience, and education level. On average, a GIS Specialist earns $60,000-75,000 per year.

What degree do you need to become a GIS Specialist?

Most GIS Specialists pursue a bachelor’s degree in geography, cartography, or spatial analysis. However, many employers look for applicants who also demonstrate hands-on experience in GIS through internships or other opportunities.

Is GIS still a good career?

Absolutely! GIS offers a variety of avenues down which you can take your career. There are also plenty of opportunities to climb the ranks and assume senior positions.