Article by Christopher Vella-Bone
GIS is a highly complicated piece of mapping software that requires a great deal of technical knowledge to operate properly. As a result and coupled with the competitive employment industry we have constructed a list of particular skills that employers look for when offering a position working with GIS.
Basic understanding of programming and how it works:
A basic knowledge and understanding of general programming practices is an extremely useful tool for anyone hoping to gain a GIS Job. This enables you to understand how programming skills can help you to solve certain problems and errors that may occur within the software.
A good understanding of spatial data and algorithms:
Any good GIS programmer needs to have an understanding of how spatial data and algorithms function in the software. As a result, this enables the user to familiarise themselves with certain operations and identify in what situations each are most applicable. There are a wide number of operations that work in the software but they do not necessarily provide valid results.
GIS Analysis:
The ability to analyse GIS and certain facets of it is an essential skill for anyone with GIS systems. It provides them with the ability to solve common problems that may have otherwise taken a great deal longer. A complimentary skill that can help you stand out from the competition is the ability to extend and alter the standard analysis to meet specific requirements.
Graphic Design and Cartography:
Maps are used in a variety of different ways in a wide selection of media. Consequently, you need to be able to understand how these work and also be able to work with them. In short, cartography is the study and practice of making maps. Poor cartographic design usually leads to it being much difficult to analyse and interpret data displayed within the system. As stated earlier, GIS Analysis is an essential part of the process.
Ability to work within a team
When working with GIS, you are most likely to be required to work within a team, especially at entry level. As a result you need to be confident and comfortable working with others. A major part of this is the ability to communicate your ideas confidently and effectively. People are more likely to accept you and any ideas you may have if you deliver them confidently and show a passion for what you are proposing.
Don’t be afraid to experiment
As with the majority of jobs out there, creativity is a must. Do not be afraid to experiment within certain aspects of GIS, you might just create something unique and extremely useful. Many have done so in the past, so there is no reason why you cannot be next.
Other Useful Resources
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