A geographical information science (GIS) manager, also known as a GIS specialist/project manager, is responsible for the development and management of digital technology for the collection of geographic data. This information is used for analysis and planning purposes. A GIS manager is usually in charge of directing a government or private firm’s GIS unit. Not only does the position necessitate knowledge of GIS, but also of effective communication and leadership techniques. Because this position necessitates a great deal of experience, the majority of GIS managers are promoted from other GIS positions.
A GIS manager is responsible for overseeing the creation of charts, maps, and text that assist clients such as cities and businesses in visualizing, analyzing, and solving problems. They work in a variety of fields, including municipal planning, real estate, and natural phenomena research. As a result, many GIS managers are extremely specialized.
Spatial analysis, geography, and cartography are among the disciplines covered by GIS. Several of these elements are overseen by a GIS manager, who ensures that all team members have the resources they need to complete projects like plotting land and determining boundaries. They keep track of budgets, supervise personnel, and ensure that organizational protocol is followed.
The majority of GIS managers have at least five or six years of experience in the field. Programming, cartography, database management, and general GIS are all subjects that must be studied in order to succeed in the GIS field. GIS managers need a broad understanding of the various disciplines that make up the field. Despite the fact that there are several GIS certificate and associates programs available, employers prefer bachelor’s degrees.
To become a manager, a GIS professional can take a variety of paths. Internships are a popular way to get started in the field. An intern can avoid the entry-level position of digitizer if they have the necessary experience.
A technician is the next level, which requires at least a year of experience with GIS software and, in most cases, some programming knowledge. The majority of GIS professionals then advance to analyst positions, which require more advanced analytical skills, advanced programming knowledge, and occasionally some managerial ability. A GIS manager can be hired directly from an analyst position, but he or she may first work as a coordinator. Finally, a GIS manager must have a strong technical background as well as strong project management skills.