1

Geographic Information Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S. in Geography, Geographic Information Systems, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Minimum Qualifications: * Five years as a GIS Analyst working with ESRI Product suite. * Three years ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Geographic Information Science information

See salary details

$19K

$68.1K

$123.5K

How much do geographic information science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for geographic information science in the United States is $68,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do Geographic Information Science (GIScience) professionals typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

GIScience professionals frequently work alongside teams in urban planning, environmental science, engineering, and IT. They provide spatial data analysis and visualization that support decision-making for projects such as infrastructure development, resource management, or emergency response. Effective collaboration often involves translating complex geospatial data into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to tailor technical outputs to diverse audiences.

What is the difference between Geographic Information Science vs Geographic Information Systems Technician?

AspectGeographic Information ScienceGeographic Information Systems Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in GIS, geography, or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in GIS or related area
Work EnvironmentResearch, analysis, and development in labs or office settingsFieldwork and technical support in office or field environments
Employer & IndustryUniversities, government agencies, research institutionsMunicipalities, engineering firms, GIS service providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding GIS science principles and research rolesTechnical GIS support and data management roles

Geographic Information Science focuses on the theoretical, analytical, and research aspects of GIS, often requiring higher education. In contrast, Geographic Information Systems Technicians handle the technical implementation, data entry, and support tasks. Both roles are essential in the GIS industry but serve different functions based on education and job responsibilities.

What is Geographic Information Science?

Geographic Information Science, often abbreviated as GIScience, is the scientific discipline that studies the theory and methods behind the collection, analysis, and interpretation of geographic data. It focuses on understanding spatial patterns and relationships by using tools and techniques such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial analysis. GIScience professionals work in diverse fields including urban planning, environmental management, transportation, and public health to solve real-world problems using spatial data.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Geographic Information Science (GIS) professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a GIS professional, you need a solid background in geography, spatial analysis, and cartography, typically supported by a degree in GIS, geography, or a related field. Proficiency with GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS, experience with spatial databases, and relevant certifications like GISP are highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting data and presenting insights to stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate spatial data analysis, effective project delivery, and informed decision-making across various industries.
More about Geographic Information Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Geographic Information Science jobs? Cities with the most Geographic Information Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Geographic Information Science jobs? The most popular types of Geographic Information Science jobs are:
What states have the most Geographic Information Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Geographic Information Science jobs include:
Infographic showing various Geographic Information Science job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,053 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Geographic Information Systems Analyst

Ada County, ID - Sheriff's Office

Boise, ID โ€ข On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Salary: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 Annually
Location : Dispatch Center, 945 E. Pine Ave., Meridian, ID
Job Type: Full-Time with Benefits
Job Number: 02850
Department: Sheriff
Division: ECB- Emergency Comm Fund
Opening Date: 06/01/2026
Closing Date: 6/12/2026 5:00 PM Mountain
General Summary
Do you meet our minimum hiring standards?
Please check before applying.

Provides analysis, technical support, and expertise to Geographic Information System (GIS) projects including design, development, maintenance, and quality assurance. Participates in the long-term development and enhancement of GIS information technology to meet user needs, performs GIS modeling; and assistance and guidance to staff.
SHIFT INFORMATION: General Day Shift, Monday-Friday; some flexibility may be required.
  • The GIS Analyst I is the entry-level GIS professional. Performs complex GIS work under general supervision for a variety of applications.

  • The GIS Analyst II can be distinguished from the GIS Analyst I by the scope and level of work. The GIS Analyst II performs the most complex GIS work under general direction, serves as a team lead , and manages large projects .

Essential Functions
GIS Analyst I
  • Designs, develops, and maintains GIS applications and projects;
  • Creates, edits, and maintains county spatial datasets;
  • Performs GIS troubleshooting;
  • Interacts directly with internal and external customers to identify needs and develop solutions;
  • Collaborates and works closely with GIS and IT personnel to provide solutions;
  • Provides training and technical advice to users;
  • Develops and maintains user guides and procedure manuals;
  • Provides input into long-term county strategies;

GIS Analyst II:
  • Performs the essential functions of a GIS Analyst I;
  • Develops project plans and coordinates enterprise GIS projects;
  • Serves as GIS Server Administrator and works with IT staff to troubleshoot and resolve GIS related hardware and software issues;
  • Conducts research into emerging technologies and works with vendors, consultants and other resources to determine capability of products;
  • Provides lead work to other GIS staff;
  • Develops enterprise GIS solutions utilizing a variety of object oriented programming and scripting languages;
  • Evaluates and makes recommendations on quality control standards and on maintenance procedures for the geographic information system and digital base map.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Because this role involves driving between multiple office sites to perform job duties, candidates must possess a valid driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.Assists with security and data access-related procedures;
  • Represents the county on committees;
  • Performs related functions as required.

Job Requirements
GIS Analyst I
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, GIS, Geography or a related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Two or more years GIS experience;
  • Knowledge and basic understanding of object oriented programming and scripting principles;
  • Ability to program and develop ArcGIS, Suite;
  • Knowledge of complex computer applications and development tools;
  • Ability to perform spatial analysis, produce cartographic output, and edit spatial data;
  • Ability to locate, identify, and validate essential information;
  • Ability to communicate complex technical information in an understandable, non-technical fashion;
  • Ability to evaluate a problem, determine requirements, assess potential outcomes, and implement solutions;
  • Ability to work productively both independently and as part of a team;
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and present ideas logically and effectively;
  • Ability to analyze problems, draw appropriate conclusions and recommend an effective course of action;
  • Ability to increase self-knowledge, skill, and understanding of GIS and GIS principles.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships;

GIS Analyst II
  • In addition to the above;
  • Five or more years GIS experience;
  • Extensive knowledge of object oriented programming and scripting;
  • Skill managing projects;
  • Skill communicating complex technical information in an understandable, non-technical fashion;
  • Skill evaluating a problem, determining requirements, assessing potential outcomes, and implementing solutions;

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license;

Work Environment & Physical Demands
  • Work is performed primarily in an office environment and the employee in this class is subject to inside environmental conditions;
  • Work may require the incumbent to perform GIS troubleshooting in the field;
  • May be required to lift up to 20 lbs.;
  • Requires frequent repetitive movement of the wrists, hands, and fingers.

DISCLAIMER:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential functions satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of individuals in the job. This job description is not an employment agreement and/or an expressed or implied employment contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. Ada County provides Veteran's Preference for all County jobs except for those deemed "key positions" in accordance with Title 65, Chapter 5 of Idaho Code.
Visit to view details regarding our benefits package, including: paid leave, healthcare benefits, retirement benefits, and more!
Use our to get a personalized look at what your total compensation could be including estimated salary, retirement contributions, health benefits and paid time off. This tool is designed to help prospective employees better understand the full value of working at Ada County.
Ada County recognizes that employees are our most valuable asset. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to benefit-eligible employees designed to support the health, wellness and long-term financial stability of our employees and their families.
Healthcare:
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision premiums and deductibles
  • Post-employment health savings account
Retirement and Investments Plans:
  • PERSI retirement benefits
  • 457(b) post or pre-tax investments options with up to 3% employer match
  • 401(k)
Wellbeing Program:
  • Employee Assistance Program for short-term counseling on work, family, finances, and personal concerns.
  • Free ACHD Commuter ride vanpool program
  • Free bus pass
Paid-leave:
  • 11 paid holidays per year
  • 8 weeks paid Parental Leave
  • Approximately 96 hours of vacation accrual for full-time employee
  • Approximately 96 hours of sick accrual for full-time employee
  • 5 days paid bereavement leave
Life & Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Basic Life Insurance employer paid if benefit eligible
  • Short Term Disability employer paid if benefit eligible
Optional Benefits:
  • Pre-tax Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Account
  • NCPERS Decreasing Term Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Employee, Spouse, Child Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • AFLAC

01
Do you have at least one year of hands-on GIS experience using tools such as ArcGIS or similar GIS software?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have work experience developing, configuring, or managing GIS-based applications and servers? Please explain.
03
Do you have at least two years of hands-on GIS experience using tools such as ArcGIS or similar GIS software?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have basic knowledge of scripting or object-oriented programming (e.g., Python) used in GIS workflows?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you willing to work the hours required for this particular position? This may include nights, weekends, holidays or other shifts as assigned. (See online posting for more specific shift information pertaining to this position).
  • Yes
  • No

06
I have reviewed the pay rate or range for this position and the posted wage is acceptable to me.
  • Yes
  • No

07
Give an example of a spatial analysis or data-editing task you have completed. What was the goal, and what methods or tools did you use?
08
This position requires at least two year of GIS experience, familiarity with ArcGIS, and basic knowledge of scripting or object-oriented programming. Please describe how you meet these minimum qualifications, including the GIS tools you have used, the types of spatial tasks you have performed, and any introductory programming or scripting experience you have.
Required Question