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Geospatial Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

BKF is hiring a senior geospatial analyst to join our ArcGIS team. The ideal candidate would be an experienced geospatial analyst and would be able to support figure production, firm-wide analytics ...

Geospatial Technical Specialist

Riverside, CA · On-site +1

$83K - $166K/yr

BKF is hiring a senior geospatial analyst to join our ArcGIS team. The ideal candidate would be an experienced geospatial analyst and would be able to support figure production, firm-wide analytics ...

... analysis, service territory mapping, geocoding, and drive-time modeling to support route planning and service area management. Build and maintain geospatial databases, route models, and digital ...

Geospatial Analyst/Surveyor III

Klamath, CA · On-site

$79K - $142K/yr

Fisheries Opening Date: 02/17/2026 Closing Date: 8/11/2026 5:00 PM Pacific POSITION SUMMARY Geospatial Analyst/Surveyor III is under the direct supervision of the Geomatics & Surveying Branch Manager ...

Geospatial Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

The tasks are centered on analysis, development and maintenance of spatial databases, development ... At NV5 Geospatial, We are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each ...

Geospatial Specialist

Sacramento, CA · Remote

$70K - $90K/yr

NV5 is seeking a Geospatial Specialist with specific technical skills and expertise to provide ... The tasks are centered on analysis, development and maintenance of spatial databases, development ...

The tasks are centered on analysis, development and maintenance of spatial databases, development ... At NV5 Geospatial, We are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each ...

NV5 is seeking a Geospatial Specialist (Production) with specific technical skills and expertise to ... The tasks are centered on analysis, development and maintenance of spatial databases, development ...

The tasks are centered on analysis, development and maintenance of spatial databases, development ... At NV5 Geospatial, We are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each ...

Senior Data Analyst

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$93K - $118K/yr

Experience in statistical and geospatial analysis using SAS, ESRI, and ArcGIS is a plus. * Provide database administration support with 5-10 years of DBA experience, including at least 3+ years in a ...

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Geospatial Analyst information

See California salary details

$21.7K

$76.5K

$120.4K

How much do geospatial analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for geospatial analyst in California is $76,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges geospatial analysts face when integrating data from multiple sources?

Geospatial Analysts often work with datasets that come from a variety of sources, such as satellite imagery, GPS, and public databases. A common challenge is ensuring data compatibility and accuracy, as each source may use different formats, scales, or coordinate systems. Analysts need strong attention to detail to resolve discrepancies, standardize data, and maintain data quality. Collaboration with IT teams and data providers is essential for troubleshooting integration issues and ensuring smooth workflows.

What does a geospatial analyst do?

A Geospatial Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets geographic data to support decision-making in various fields such as urban planning, environmental management, defense, and business. They use Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial analysis techniques to create maps, identify patterns, and solve spatial problems. Their work helps organizations visualize and understand complex spatial relationships, enabling more informed planning and resource allocation.

Is geospatial analysis a good career?

Geospatial analysis is a growing field that involves using geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial data to solve real-world problems. It offers opportunities in sectors like urban planning, environmental management, and defense, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant expertise and experience.

What is the difference between Geospatial Analyst vs GIS Technician?

AspectGeospatial AnalystGIS Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, or related field; GIS certificationsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree; GIS certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentField and office work, analyzing spatial data, creating mapsPrimarily office-based, data entry, map creation, database management
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental firms, urban planningMunicipalities, engineering firms, utilities
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on spatial analysis and data interpretationFocuses on data management and map production

The main difference between a Geospatial Analyst and a GIS Technician lies in their roles. Geospatial Analysts perform complex spatial data analysis and interpret geographic information, often requiring advanced skills and certifications. GIS Technicians primarily handle data entry, map creation, and database management. Both roles are essential in GIS projects but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is a geospatial analyst?

A geospatial analyst works with geographic information systems (GIS) technology to examine aerial photography and satellite images. As a geospatial analyst, you may utilize GIS data to create maps, develop software, assist with urban planning, or inform environmental projects such as wildlife management and preservation. Your job duties include searching for data relevant to your project, preparing documentation and reports to explain your analysis, maintaining an accurate record of your work, and collaborating with your colleagues on projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geospatial analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geospatial Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, spatial reasoning, and a background in geography, GIS, or a related field. Proficiency with GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, remote sensing tools, and data visualization platforms is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as GISP. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting complex spatial data and sharing insights with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are essential for producing accurate geospatial analyses that inform decision-making in fields like urban planning, environmental science, and defense.

Is a geospatial analyst an entry level job?

A geospatial analyst can be an entry-level position, especially for those with relevant skills in GIS software, data analysis, and spatial data management. However, some roles may require prior experience or specialized certifications, and advancement often depends on technical proficiency and project experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geospatial Analyst jobs in California? The most popular types of Geospatial Analyst jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Geospatial Analyst jobs? Cities in California with the most Geospatial Analyst job openings:
Infographic showing various Geospatial Analyst job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,480 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

$65K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Posting Summary
Logo Posting Number STA00570PO26 Job Family Research Job Function Geographic Information Systems USC Market Title GIS Analyst Link to USC Market Title https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/138340 Job Level P1 - Professional Business Title (Internal Title) Geospatial Analyst Campus Columbia Work County Richland College/Division Division of Administration and Finance Department DAF Facilities Planning and Programming State Pay Range G09 USC Market Range MRF - $52,526 $65,658 $78,789 Anticipated Hiring Range $52,526 - $65,658 Location of Vacancy Part/Full Time Full Time Hours per Week 37.5 Work Schedule
  • Monday - Friday
  • 8:00 am - 4:30 pm or 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to mee the needs of the department.
Basis 12 months Job Search Category Other
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement
The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
This position designs and maintains web GIS applications, manages authoritative spatial datasets, supports ArcGIS Enterprise and ArcGIS Online workflows, and develops Python-based automation to improve data quality, system efficiency, and decision-making across campus.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in a job related field and 1 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience administering, configuring, or supporting ArcGIS Enterprise, including Portal for ArcGIS, ArcGIS Server, hosted feature layers, web services, users, groups, sharing settings, and publishing workflows.
  • Experience developing Python scripts for GIS automation using ArcPy, ArcGIS API for Python, pandas, GeoPandas, SQL, REST APIs, or related libraries and tools.
  • Experience developing and supporting web GIS applications using ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcGIS Experience Builder, ArcGIS Dashboards, Field Maps, Survey123, StoryMaps, and related Esri tools.
  • Experience managing enterprise geospatial data, including geodatabases, hosted feature layers, metadata, schema design, data validation, QA/QC, and data governance standards.
  • Experience integrating GIS with enterprise systems, databases, APIs, CAD, BIM, asset management systems, or facilities management systems.
  • Experience supporting mobile GIS data collection workflows, GPS/GNSS data collection, and field-to-office data integration.
  • Experience creating maps, dashboards, reports, and spatial analysis products for operational decision-making.
  • CAD experience, especially with facilities, utilities, infrastructure, construction, or campus mapping data.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Strong knowledge of geospatial concepts, spatial data management, cartography, geoprocessing, spatial analysis, and web GIS application design.
  • Working knowledge of ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcGIS Online, enterprise geodatabases, hosted feature layers, web maps, feature services, dashboards, and mobile GIS applications.
  • Ability to develop, maintain, troubleshoot, and document Python scripts for GIS automation, data processing, QA/QC, reporting, and workflow improvement.
  • Knowledge of GIS data governance practices, including metadata, schema standards, authoritative data management, data validation, version control, and documentation.
  • Ability to work with relational databases, SQL, APIs, spreadsheets, CAD data, and other data sources commonly used in facilities, planning, public safety, and campus operations.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to translate business needs into geospatial workflows, applications, maps, and data products.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders, provide training and support, and manage multiple concurrent projects.
  • Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, document work clearly, and coordinate with IT, operational departments, academic users, and external partners.
  • Full-time with potential for hybrid work. Occasional travel across campus for project support and collaboration. Occasional travel for conferences and training.

Job Duties
Job Duty
  • Design, develop, configure, and maintain web GIS applications and services using ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Experience Builder, ArcGIS Dashboards, Field Maps, Survey123, StoryMaps, and related tools.
  • Support the university's ArcGIS Enterprise environment, including Portal content organization, user and group management, hosted feature layers, map and feature services, sharing settings, publishing workflows, and service documentation.
  • Coordinate with university IT and system administrators on ArcGIS Enterprise operations, including system configuration, upgrades, authentication, security, performance, backups, and integration with other enterprise systems.
  • Work with stakeholders to gather requirements, design user-centered GIS solutions, and deliver web maps, dashboards, mobile applications, and data services that support campus operations, planning, emergency management, facilities, and research

Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 25 Job Duty
  • Develop, maintain, and document Python scripts and automated workflows using ArcPy, the ArcGIS API for Python, SQL, and related tools to support geospatial data processing, quality control, reporting, publishing, and system maintenance.
  • Automate recurring GIS tasks, including data updates, geoprocessing workflows, attribute validation, service publishing, metadata checks, data exports, map production, and scheduled reporting.
  • Create repeatable data pipelines that integrate GIS data with university systems, databases, spreadsheets, APIs, CAD/BIM sources, and other operational datasets.
  • Troubleshoot and improve existing scripts and workflows to increase reliability, reduce manual processing, improve data quality, and support enterprise GIS operations.

Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 20 Job Duty
  • Maintain, update, and improve authoritative spatial datasets in the university's enterprise geodatabase and hosted GIS environments, ensuring accuracy, completeness, metadata documentation, and compliance with university data governance standards.
  • Perform spatial analysis, geoprocessing, geocoding, proximity analysis, network analysis, and spatial modeling to support campus planning, infrastructure management, public safety, sustainability, accessibility, and operational decision-making.
  • Develop high-quality maps, reports, dashboards, data visualizations, and analytical products for technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Establish and follow data standards for schema design, naming conventions, editing workflows, QA/QC, metadata, version control, and lifecycle management of GIS datasets.

Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 20 Job Duty
  • Develop, deploy, train, and support mobile GIS applications and field data collection workflows using ArcGIS Field Maps, Survey123, QuickCapture, GPS/GNSS tools, and related technologies.
  • Train and support university staff, students, and field crews in mobile GIS workflows, data collection procedures, data accuracy standards, and troubleshooting.
  • Coordinate field data collection projects for facilities, infrastructure, emergency response, campus operations, and asset management.
  • Review, validate, clean, document, and integrate field-collected data into authoritative GIS datasets and enterprise GIS services in accordance with university data governance, metadata, and quality assurance standards.


Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 15 Job Duty
  • Provide GIS technical support, consultation, and training to university departments, faculty, staff, and students using GIS applications, data, and enterprise geospatial tools.
  • Engage with operational and academic stakeholders to identify opportunities for GIS-driven improvements, automation, spatial analysis, and data integration.
  • Develop and maintain documentation for GIS applications, data standards, Python scripts, enterprise workflows, training materials, and standard operating procedures.
  • Communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical users and support adoption of university GIS tools and best practices.

Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 15 Job Duty
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 5
Position Attributes
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive No Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date Job Open Date 07/29/2026 Job Close Date 09/12/2026 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by September 12, 2026.
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
  • Health and Life Insurance
  • Retirement Programs
  • Paid Tuition
  • Dependent Scholarships
  • Annual Leave
  • Sick Leave
  • 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Professional Development Opportunities

Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Quicklink for Posting https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/210561 EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth,...