A GIS technologist collects, analyzes, and interprets geographic data to solve real-world problems. The work is technical and detail-oriented, and you can enter the field with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Here is what the role involves, what preparation looks like, and how to get started.
Pathly builds you a free, personalized roadmap and helps your counselor champion you along the way.
GIS technologists work with computers and geographic information systems to analyze spatial data and create maps that inform decisions in urban planning, environmental management, business, and government. You'll spend time processing and updating geographic information, reading and interpreting data, and communicating findings to supervisors and colleagues. The work requires you to stay current with software and technology changes, think critically about data patterns, and listen carefully to understand what stakeholders need from your analysis.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $116,580 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 8 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations, with about 31,300 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You can start with a high school diploma and build skills on the job. Many employers provide training in GIS software and geographic analysis methods. To strengthen your foundation, consider taking courses in geography, mathematics, computer science, or design during high school or through community programs. Your preparation should emphasize reading comprehension, critical thinking, and basic math skills. Job Zone 3 preparation means you'll need some hands-on experience and may benefit from entry-level positions or internships that expose you to GIS tools and workflows.
Most people enter this field through direct hire or internship pathways after high school, or by pairing technical training with a two-year degree. If you're exploring which route fits your timeline and goals, Pathly can map the geographic information systems technologist and technician path that fits you with your school counselor to map out the steps that work for you.
You do not need a license to work as a geographic information systems technologist and technician, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You thrive with systems, accuracy, and clear processes. If you enjoy organizing information, spotting patterns in data, and working methodically toward solutions, this career aligns with how you think.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
Your free AI guide weighs this career against your strengths and goals, and surfaces the colleges, trades, and scholarships that match, so you know if it truly fits before you commit.
Get a personalized, step-by-step plan to reach this career, with the training, coursework, and credentials tracked in one place. Link your school or IEC and your counselor in the loop.
Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).