Position Overview
The primary responsibility of GIS technicians (geographical information systems technicians) is to create maps in GIS systems to serve a number of purposes.
They manipulate data that they have derived from reading and interpreting maps and handle information entered into a GIS database.
GIS technicians work under the supervision of their supervisors to plan and organize the development and implementation of GIS systems.
They also participate in the long-term maintenance and upgrades required on GIS technology and are expected to handle all these with one end in mind – servicing user objectives.
Each GIS technician is provided with periodic assignments in terms of expected outcomes, and each technician needs to work independently to develop the information required by the company.
Eligibility Criteria
It is essential for GIS technicians to possess a Bachelor’s degree in computer sciences or information technology to be eligible for this position.
They also need to have in-depth knowledge of geo-systems, geography, historical geography, and computer architecture as this assists them in performing their duties appropriately.
See also: GIS Technician Resume
GIS Technician Job Duties and Responsibilities
• Identify GIS requirements and technical issues along with determining training needs and recommend solutions by following best practices.
• Construct information technology data based on the needs of the organization.
• Handle cadastral and GIS data manipulation, maintenance, analysis, and extraction duties.
• Perform data research and verification activities.
• Create and maintain files of digital pictures based on assigned geographical area.
• Code and digitize maps and feature data into a predefined GIS program.
• Prepare and plan a variety of maps and drawings along with producing, maintaining, and updating graphical representation data.
• Handle detailed spatial analysis such as buffering, notifications, and zone consolidation.
• Manage and manipulate digital images for the purpose of electronic mapping.
• Incorporate charts, maps, and data files into reports.
• Analyze requests for new applications and create feasibility reports for each request.
• Examine current GIS systems and provide feedback on functionality and capabilities.
• Design and implement changes into the GIS system with a view to meeting the organization’s objectives.
• Test any implemented changes or additions to an existing GIS model to determine suitability and success.
• Troubleshoot and resolve GIS database problems by using a variety of diagnostic tools.
• Provide technical support to end-users by assisting them in implementation and problem resolution activities.
• Use a range of GIS hardware and software to design and prepare graphic representations of geographical information systems.