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Geographical Information Systems Jobs in California

$89.24/hr

Example of Duties College of the Canyons is seeking adjunct faculty members in Geography/Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Applications will be considered for immediate and future eligibility ...

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Geographical Information Systems information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$84.2K

$122.4K

How much do geographical information systems jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for geographical information systems in California is $84,152.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $101,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a geographical information system (GIS)?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are computer-based tools that allow users to capture, store, analyze, manage, and visualize spatial or geographic data. GIS technology is used to map and examine locations, patterns, and relationships in data related to the Earth's surface. It is widely used in fields such as urban planning, environmental science, transportation, and resource management to make informed decisions based on spatial information.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a geographical information systems (GIS) specialist?

To thrive as a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Specialist, you need a solid understanding of geography, spatial analysis, and cartography, typically supported by a relevant degree in geography, GIS, or environmental science. Proficiency with GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS, along with experience in database management and spatial data tools, is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate spatial data analysis and support decision-making in urban planning, environmental management, and other fields.

How do geographical information systems (GIS) professionals typically collaborate with other departments or teams within an organization?

GIS professionals often work closely with departments such as urban planning, environmental science, transportation, and emergency management. They provide spatial data analysis, create maps, and develop tools that support decision-making across these areas. Effective collaboration involves regular meetings, sharing data and insights, and sometimes training non-GIS staff to interpret spatial information. This teamwork helps organizations leverage geographic data to solve complex problems more efficiently.

What is the difference between Geographical Information Systems vs Cartographers?

AspectGeographical Information SystemsCartographers
CredentialsGIS certifications, degrees in geography, GIS technologyCartography degrees, GIS knowledge often beneficial
Work EnvironmentOffice, fieldwork, GIS labsOffice, outdoor mapping, field surveys
Industry UsageUrban planning, environmental management, transportationMap creation, atlas production, spatial data visualization
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding GIS roles, skills, and toolsLearning about map-making, cartography careers

While both GIS specialists and cartographers work with spatial data, GIS professionals focus on managing, analyzing, and interpreting geographic information using specialized software. Cartographers primarily design and produce maps, often utilizing GIS data. The roles overlap in skills and tools, but GIS roles tend to be more data-driven and analytical, whereas cartography emphasizes visual map design.

Is Geographical Information Systems still in demand?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) professionals are in ongoing demand across industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation, driven by the increasing need for spatial data analysis and mapping. Skills in GIS software like ArcGIS and QGIS, along with data management and analysis capabilities, enhance employability in this field.

Is geographical information systems a good career?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a growing field with applications in urban planning, environmental management, and transportation. GIS professionals typically need skills in spatial analysis, data management, and proficiency with tools like ArcGIS or QGIS. The career offers opportunities for advancement and often requires certifications or a degree in geography, computer science, or related fields.

What jobs can I get with Geographical Information Systems?

With a background in Geographical Information Systems (GIS), common jobs include GIS analyst, GIS technician, cartographer, spatial data analyst, and GIS developer. These roles involve mapping, spatial data management, and analysis using GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, often requiring skills in data visualization, programming, and spatial database management.

What jobs can you get with a geographical information systems degree?

A degree in geographical information systems (GIS) can lead to roles such as GIS analyst, GIS technician, cartographer, remote sensing analyst, and GIS developer. These jobs typically involve working with GIS software, spatial data analysis, and mapping in various industries like urban planning, environmental management, transportation, and government agencies.

What are popular job titles related to Geographical Information Systems jobs in California?

For Geographical Information Systems jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geographical Information Systems jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Geographical Information Systems jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Geographical Information Systems jobs?

Cities in California with the most Geographical Information Systems job openings:

Infographic showing various Geographical Information Systems job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,152 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Unit I Supervisor

Department of Conservation

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$7.5K - $9.3K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

In accordance with CCR 249.3, this job control may be used to fill subsequent vacancies.
This position is subject to the Department of Conservation's Conflict of Interest code. Candidates may be precluded from employment with the department if they, or their spouse, hold interests in oil, gas, or geothermal entities.
Please limit your duties performed to one entry. Using multiple entries to list job duties for the same position may lead to disqualification.
PLEASE NOTE: All relevant work experience, skills sets, and professional qualifications must be listed on the STD. 678. Applications will be screened based on the information provided on the STD. 678 and not on your resume or SOQ. Failure to include required information on the STD. 678 may result in elimination from the recruitment process. APPLICATIONS WITH "SEE RESUME" OR "SEE ATTACHED" WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED
Under the general direction of the Geographic Information System (GIS) Manager (Research Data Supervisor II), the Research Data Supervisor I will function as the GIS Services Unit 1 Supervisor in the Information Management Programs (IMPRO) at the Division's Headquarters Office. The incumbent will collaborate closely with CalGEM management, Enterprise Technology Services Division (ETSD), and other staff to deliver products that support multiple Division programs. The incumbent must work independently and collaboratively in project teams to determine the best solutions for geographic information products that support business objectives. The incumbent may be expected to handle the complexity of multiple customers, projects, topics, and tasks while still meeting goals on schedule. The incumbent is expected to write professional-quality documentation that communicates clearly and effectively to support data maintenance and continuity of operations. The incumbent shall communicate effectively to achieve strong customer support and efficient teamwork. The incumbent must have an overall understanding of management, GIS practices, and statistical procedures to perform, manage, and direct the analyst staff responsible for the GIS work of Unit 1. The incumbent must possess expert skills, knowledge, and abilities in GIS techniques and methodologies to provide high-quality services to the Division.
ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION: If new to California state service, you will need to have taken and passed the examination for this classification in order to be hired for this position. If you are a current state employee, but do not have transfer eligibility or list eligibility, you will need to have taken and passed the examination for this classification in order to be hired for this position. Please go to CalHR's website to review the exam bulletin: Research Data Supervisor I - Exam
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet Minimum Qualifications, the applicant will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Applicants who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
EDUCATION INFORMATION: If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications for this classification, please provide your unofficial transcripts. Applicants who completed their education outside of the United States (with foreign degrees/transcripts) must provide evaluated transcripts. The transcript evaluation must state the number of units to which foreign coursework is equal. Foreign education evaluation services can be found at https://www.naces.org . Official transcripts and official foreign degree transcripts will be required prior to appointment. If you are not using education to qualify for this classification, you do not need to submit transcripts. To bypass the required document, select Choose/Upload and select Bypass File.
Please note: This position requires a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ). Applications submitted without an SOQ or an SOQ that does not answer the items/questions, and/or does not follow formatting instructions will be considered not interested in this position and will be eliminated from the selection process. Resumes and cover letters do not take the place of the SOQ. Please see the Statement of Qualifications section for more information.
This position is contingent on budget approval.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
This position is located in Sacramento and Telework may be available for this position in accordance with the Department of Conservation's Telework Policy and procedures. Alternative work locations will not be considered.
Candidates who reside outside of the State of California may be admitted to the job interview but must show proof of residence in California prior to being eligible for appointment.
Please see the attached duty statement for information related to this position's working conditions.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • RESEARCH DATA SUPERVISOR I
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-528258
Position #(s):
538-201-5734-XXX
Working Title:
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Unit I Supervisor
Classification:
RESEARCH DATA SUPERVISOR I $7,530.00 - $9,355.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
With a team of scientists and other dedicated professionals, the Department of Conservation (DOC) administers a variety of programs vital to California's public safety, environment, and economy. The services DOC provides are designed to balance today's needs with tomorrow's obligations by fostering the wise use and conservation of energy, land, and mineral resources.
All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.
Department Website: http://www.conservation.ca.gov
Special Requirements
  • This position is subject to the Department's Conflict of Interest Code.

Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/31/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Conservation
N/A
Attn: Jacob Tupolo
715 P Street, MS 1806
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Conservation
N/A
Jacob Tupolo
715 P Street, MS 1806
Sacramento , CA 95814
Due to limited access, please call the Hiring Contact prior to dropping off your application package
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
  • Statement of Qualifications - All applicants must submit an SOQ. The SOQ must be no more than two pages or less in length, single spaced, and using no less than 11-point font size. The SOQ must include a response to the following question:
    1. Describe your experience leading and supervising GIS or geospatial data projects.
    2. Describe your understanding of how GIS research, geospatial data management, and analytical products support the broader goals and operations of California Geologic Energy Management Division (CalGEM).
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
  • Ability to provide excellent customer service.
  • Good attendance and dependability.
  • Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, verbally and in writing, with a variety of stakeholders, employees, control agencies, and supervisors/managers.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously and effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to exercise good judgement, work well under pressure, and meet assigned deadlines.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Benefits
DOC employees may be eligible for the following benefits:
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid sick and vacation
  • California State holiday pay
  • 401 (k) and 457 plans
  • Retirement (CalPERS)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Public Transit Subsidy

Additional benefit information can be found on the following websites:
California State Civil Service Employee Benefits information may be obtained by going to the California Department of Human Resources website at State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary .
Information regarding benefits provided by membership in the California Public Employees' Retirement System can be found at www.calpers.ca.gov .
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: http://www.conservation.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Jacob Tupolo
(916) 844-5953
Jacob.Tupolo@conservation.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
EEO Officer
(916) 215-0955
EEO@conservation.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Important Information
Do not email or fax your application. Emailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted.
PLEASE NOTE: All relevant work experience, skills sets, and professional qualifications must be listed on the STD. 678. Applications will be screened based on the information provided on the STD. 678. Failure to include required information on the STD. 678 may result in elimination from the recruitment process. APPLICATIONS WITH "SEE RESUME" OR "SEE ATTACHED" WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
If you are applying for more than one recruitment, a separate State Application (STD. 678) is required for each recruitment for which you would like to be considered.
Additional Information
ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION: If new to California state service, you will need to have taken and passed the examination for this classification in order to be hired for this position. If you are a current state employee, but do not have transfer eligibility or list eligibility, you will need to have taken and passed the examination for this classification in order to be hired for this position. Please go to CalHR's website to review the exam bulletin: Research Data Supervisor I - Exam
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet Minimum Qualifications, the applicant will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Applicants who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
EDUCAT