The Role of a Geospatial Analyst

· 4 min read
The Role of a Geospatial Analyst

It's estimated nearly ten thousand geospatial positions are either available right now or will undoubtedly be within the very forseeable future and these numbers are anticipated to increase. That is an incredible statement, since most employment sectors are downsizing or eliminating positions completely. In short, a geospatial analyst assists with research, development and implementation of a variety of geographical systems that enable successful data collection for various studies and programs. By combining real-time information, latitude and longitude positioning, projections and actual results from satellites or global positioning systems, the analyst collects this information to be fed into a database for private companies, governmental agencies, including all arms of the military and others including the FBI and NASA. A detailed knowledge of environmental modeling, environmental sciences, computer science, geography, and database design, maintenance and mining are mandatory. Most positions require a degree and many companies, since this can be a relatively new employment sector, can offer face to face training and mentoring.  3D Modelling Watchet , however, won't replace a degree.

Geocoding, defined as the process of adding geographic information to a file or database for use in a geographic information system (GIS), uses both "hard copies" and electronic models of maps. Anyone familiar with Google Maps or Microsoft Earth knows the power behind the science of GIS. The foundation behind the science might be zip codes or actual addresses. Obviously, collecting and inputting this overwhelming amount of information into one database is both time consuming and is as helpful as it is accurate. The info is used in an array of ways, including appraisal efforts, utility planning, marketing, habitat info gathering, transportation and more. It's generally presented via electronic and 3D imaging methods but can be incorporated into maps, tables and graphs.

One interesting way this new technology is being involves meteorology. A great source of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, it can show the damage of storm systems, including major hurricanes and tornadoes, almost the moment these events happen. Anyone who's seen the before-and- after satellite images available after Hurricane Katrina, knows how powerful these advances are and how crucial the information could be. The nearly-mile long bridge that made travel between Ocean Springs and Biloxi, MS possible was destroyed in this powerful category four hurricane, but not before satellite images taken prior to the storm and the images immediately following this hurricane was perspective found. Casinos that dotted the beach line ahead of Katrina, displayed as solid foundations, were replaced with broken spots of what once was. It had been with GIS science that these images truly defined the damage. Tornadoes' paths of destruction are often seen through this science and environmentalists employ geospatial analysts to follow melting icebergs, deteriorating beach lines and may regulate how fast oceans are warming. In the same way in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when computers were becoming readily available and the web was in its infancy, at least in terms of it learning to be a household necessity, these new geographic info systems are quickly becoming the must-have positions. In fact, a recent survey of meteorology and engineering majors indicated an interest in crossovers into these new advances should the opportunity present itself. As our demand for more technology increases, so will the need for those who can incorporate these technologies into everyday living.

Unlike other databases, information stored for GIS purposes can be accessed by using any number of parameters. One database can offer information based on several parameters, like the number of foreclosures in virtually any particular area inside a state. That same information, with a few modifications to the parameters, can provide locations of buried cables. This universal approach, once information has been compiled, researched and entered into the database, will be able to link with other agencies, states and even the government for even broader uses. As one might expect, trained and experienced surveyors, drafters, cartographers, geologists and engineers is definitely the ideal candidates for these positions. The Department of Labor anticipates a 38% increase for environmental engineers alone next decade. The median income is anticipated at nearly $62,000 annually, but it's noted this may be too conservative a number until and unless the supply and demand ratios commence to merge.

Other qualifications which will define ideal candidates include focus on detail since precision and accuracy, if compromised, can result in a domino effect that may affect every inquiry made. Eyesight, coordination, and hearing are advantageous as well as a commitment to continuing education requirements will be necessary across the board in this field. Strong computer skills certainly are a must and the ability to work outdoors in various terrains is necessary too.

Since satellite imageries often play key roles in effective mapping efforts, those people who are adept at not merely reading these images, but who is able to incorporate the information for even more benefits is a focus for employers, both in the private and government sectors. Notable proof of these benefits are the discovery, via GIS, of weapons of mass destruction overseas, tracking devices that are available these days for pets and automobiles in addition to real-time locations of airplanes at any given moment.


As anticipations grow with each new discovery, geospatial careers promise to become the gateway for highly advanced and instantly available information across the world.

A. Harrison Barnes is the founder and CEO of EmploymentScape, the parent company greater than 90 job-search websites, employment services, recruiting firms and student loan companies. EmploymentScape (originally Juriscape) employs several hundred employees in 14 offices through the entire United States, Asia, and Europe. These businesses were literally started from Harrison's garage several years ago after Harrison quit his job.

Harrison resides in Malibu, California. He could be a sought-after motivational speaker [http://www.aharrisonbarnes.com/speaking-coaching-and-workshop-fees] and writes articles relating to the legal community. Harrison is an active philanthropist and advocate for folks reaching their full potential within their careers. Given his passion for job seekers and them reaching their full ability, Harrison recently started offering a limited number of coaching engagements to job seekers.