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Geographic Information Systems Officer

Also known as Land Information Systems Officer, Spatial Information Systems Officer, Surveying Technologist and Spatial Information Systems Technician.

Geographic information systems 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.

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.

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

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

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

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

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.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

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. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

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.