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Entry Level Geospatial Jobs in West Virginia (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Brownfields Professional to support a ... Experience with geospatial software. * Experience with economic development in small communities ...

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Brownfields Professional to support a ... Experience with geospatial software. * Experience with economic development in small communities ...

Entry Level Geospatial information

See West Virginia salary details

$14

$22

$36

How much do entry level geospatial jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level geospatial in West Virginia is $22.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Geospatial professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Geospatial professional, you need a basic understanding of geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, spatial analysis, and a degree in geography, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS, and knowledge of remote sensing tools or GPS technology, are commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for accurately processing spatial data, producing reliable maps, and supporting decision-making in various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level geospatial professionals when working on collaborative projects?

Entry-level geospatial professionals often encounter challenges such as learning to use specialized GIS software efficiently, understanding complex datasets, and adapting to team workflows. Collaboration requires clear communication with colleagues from different backgrounds, including engineers, planners, and data analysts. Overcoming the initial learning curve and staying organized in a fast-paced, project-based environment helps new professionals build confidence and contribute effectively to team goals.

What are entry level geospatial jobs?

Entry level geospatial jobs involve working with geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, mapping, and spatial data analysis. These positions typically require collecting, processing, and interpreting geographic data to create maps, analyze spatial patterns, and support decision-making in fields such as urban planning, environmental science, and transportation. Entry level roles may include titles like GIS Technician, Geospatial Analyst, or Mapping Assistant, and usually require a background in geography, environmental science, or a related field. These positions often serve as a starting point for more advanced careers in the geospatial industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Geospatial vs Entry Level GIS Technician?

AspectEntry Level GeospatialEntry Level GIS Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Geography, GIS, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Geography, GIS, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data collection, GIS softwareOffice-based, GIS software, data management
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental firms, urban planningMunicipalities, environmental consultancies, utilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level GIS rolesClarifying responsibilities of GIS technician roles

Entry Level Geospatial and Entry Level GIS Technician roles often overlap in credentials and work environment. However, geospatial roles may encompass broader spatial data analysis and fieldwork, while GIS technician positions focus more on data management and software operation. Both are common in government and industry sectors, serving similar entry-level purposes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geospatial jobs in West Virginia? The most popular types of Geospatial jobs in West Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Geospatial jobs in West Virginia? For Entry Level Geospatial jobs in West Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Geospatial jobs in West Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Geospatial jobs in West Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Geospatial job openings in West Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,935 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Research Associate

$40K/yr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Marshall University rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

526th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Banner Position Number R10146 Position Title Research Associate Classification Title MURC-Misc Other Technicians Department Environmental Center - RC1520 Job Description
The WV Brownfields Assistance Center at Marshall University, a program of the Center for Environmental, Geotechnical and Applied Sciences (CEGAS) at Marshall University, has an opening for a Research Associate. We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Brownfields Professional to support a variety of brownfield redevelopment and environmental assessment projects. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional looking to build experience in the environmental field, specifically with site reuse, remediation, and community revitalization projects. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with technical staff, municipal clients, and community partners to assist in moving brownfield sites through the assessment and reuse process.
This position will also include assistance as needed to CEGAS and other university entities, including the Appalachian Resiliency Center. The person hired for this position will work throughout WV and the Appalachian region in redevelopment of brownfields, community, county and regional economic development and resiliency initiatives. Reporting to the WV Brownfields Assistance Center Director, the Research Associate will assist with research on multiple site-specific projects throughout the state with economic development components related to brownfields while also providing project research assistance to CEGAS and Appalachian Resiliency Center projects that will include rural community economic development and resiliency, county-wide economic endeavors, and region-based economic development activities. The position will also include direct interaction with project managers and will contribute to outreach and educational service efforts, including conferences, webinars, and training events.
Provide input and project research assistance on multiple site-specific brownfield projects and activities throughout WV with emphasis on economic development, community vibrancy and resiliency
Contribute to the mission and vision of the organization through developing and managing client relationships and research projects for the WV Brownfields Assistance Center and its partner organizations
Collect and analyze relevant data; conduct research; write, prepare and edit documents, provide grant writing assistance; and present findings to various audiences
Participate in business development activities including composing and/or reviewing proposals for clients, responses to requests for proposals and grant opportunities, meeting with potential clients and preparing informational materials
Day-to-day interaction / involvement with WV Brownfields Assistance Center Staff, CEGAS staff, and Appalachian Resiliency Center staff to initiate and move projects, initiatives and activities forward
Local community and regional-based outreach, education, research and related data compilation on brownfields, resiliency, and economic development opportunities, including site and community reviews / reconnaissance to compile property and community profile data
Research on latest economic development and community resiliency successes, trends, innovations and efforts that may be utilized across WV and the region
Manage and participate in brownfields and other related conferences, webinars, and training events
Reports to WVBAC Director on activities, efforts and needs on a regular and timely basis
Location MU - Marshall University Salary Range $40,000 Salary is commensurate with education, experience and internal equity
Required Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in science or business field
Experience
  • Minimum of one year of experience in a general science or business field, with contributions that focus on environmental assessment / remediation, community-based economic development, community resiliency, and/or related field.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office products (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications
Education
  • Master's degree in a science or business field

Experience
  • More than one year of experience in rural and small community economic development planning, brownfields initiatives, community resiliency initiatives, and/or related fields.
  • Experience with geospatial software.
  • Experience with economic development in small communities and on brownfield properties.
  • Experience with grant writing for federal, state, and/or private funds.

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number MR0860 Open Date 05/05/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions Summary
The search committee requests that two reference letters  be submitted with your application. Please enter your references' information in the Reference Letter Submission section of the application. Your references will be notified via email to submit their reference letters to the search committee in our Applicant Tracking system.

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