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Geospatial Analyst Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

... developers, GIS analysts, and subject matter experts using an Agile methodology in a Scrum ... Experience with geospatial products and Esri-based GIS solutions in an enterprise context. * Strong ...

... developers, GIS analysts, and subject matter experts using an Agile methodology in a Scrum ... Experience with geospatial products and Esri-based GIS solutions in an enterprise context. * Strong ...

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Showing results 1-20

Geospatial Analyst information

See Madison, WI salary details

$22.2K

$78.1K

$122.9K

How much do geospatial analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for geospatial analyst in Madison, WI is $78,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $80,600.00 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.

What is the role of a geospatial analyst?

A geospatial analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets geographic data using GIS software and spatial tools to support decision-making in fields like urban planning, environmental management, and defense. They create maps, perform spatial analysis, and ensure data accuracy, often working with satellite imagery, GPS data, and remote sensing technologies. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of GIS platforms such as ArcGIS or QGIS are essential for this role.

Is geospatial analysis a good career?

Geospatial analysis is a viable career that involves interpreting geographic data using tools like GIS software and remote sensing. It offers opportunities in sectors such as urban planning, environmental management, and defense, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The field is expected to grow as spatial data becomes increasingly important across industries.

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.

Will GIS be overtaken by AI?

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) professionals, including geospatial analysts, use AI to automate data processing, improve accuracy, and analyze large datasets more efficiently. While AI enhances GIS capabilities, it is a tool that complements human expertise rather than replacing the need for skilled analysts who interpret and validate spatial data. Staying current with AI tools and gaining skills in machine learning can enhance a geospatial analyst's effectiveness in the field.

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.

What is the highest salary for a GIS analyst?

The highest salary for a GIS analyst can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced skills in GIS software, and certifications. Senior professionals working in specialized industries or in high-cost-of-living areas may earn higher compensation.
What are popular job titles related to Geospatial Analyst jobs in Madison, WI? For Geospatial Analyst jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geospatial Analyst jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Geospatial Analyst jobs in Madison, WI are:
Infographic showing various Geospatial Analyst job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,086 per year, or $37.5 per hour.
Geospatial Backend Developer Multiple Positions at Junior/Mid/Senior Levels

Geospatial Backend Developer Multiple Positions at Junior/Mid/Senior Levels

NV5

Sun Prairie, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Geospatial Backend Developer – Multiple Positions at Junior/Mid/Senior Levels

NV5 Geospatial (NV5G) is actively recruiting qualified and cleared Geospatial Back End Developers to support national security client sites in the Northern Virginia and St. Louis, MO areas. Candidates will build software leveraging Esri’s products and APIs to build core backend services that solve complex problems at a global scale. From building intuitive AI interfaces to writing Python for geoprocessing tools and AI agents, you’ll be exposed to the full development lifecycle and cutting edge GIS solutions. A Top Secret Clearance with SCI eligibility or an active TS/SCI are required conditions of employment.

Work Environment:

  • Location: Northern Virginia Area (Springfield, VA and/or Vienna, VA)
  • Travel up to 15% of the time

At NV5, we are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each other, our communities, and the environment.  We value both heart and head, the diversity of our people, and their experiences because that is how we continue to grow as a leader in our industry and expand our individual and collective potential.

NV5 is a global technology solutions and consulting services company with a workforce of over 4,500 professionals in more than 100 offices worldwide.  NV5’s continued growth has been spurred through strategic investments in firms with unique capabilities to help current and future customers solve the world’s toughest problems.  The NV5 family brings together talent across a wide range of markets and fields, including Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Architects, Photogrammetrists, GIS Professionals, Software Developers, IT, Project Management Professionals, and more.


  • Build backend services that power geospatial processing, automation, and user-facing capabilities
  • Develop APIs, proxies, and integration services using Node.js and Python
  • Create and maintain backend tooling that extends ArcGIS Enterprise in containerized environments
  • Develop and maintain geoprocessing services, automation scripts, and operational workflows
  • Build connectors and ingestion pipelines across diverse enterprise data sources
  • Support deployments across cloud-native and on-prem environments
  • Improve reliability and performance through API design, testing, monitoring, and observability
  • Collaborate with platform, DevOps, and GIS teams to translate requirements into production solutions

Required Qualifications:

  • US citizenship with Active or Current (within two years of active) Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI eligibility
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or STEM-related field
  • 2+ years of experience as a backend software engineer or equivalent practical experience
  • Hands-on experience developing backend services using Python, JavaScript/Node.js, Java (for enterprise integrations and services)
  • Experience designing and building REST APIs and service-based architectures
  • Experience extending or integrating with ArcGIS Enterprise or similar enterprise geospatial platforms
  • Familiarity with geoprocessing workflows, proxies and middleware services, and automation of GIS or data processing tasks
  • Experience working in containerized environments (Docker, Kubernetes, or similar)
  • Solid fundamentals in API design, software/systems design, and testing and debugging distributed services
  • Strong problem solving, communication, and collaboration skills

 Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or STEM-related field
  • Esri certification
  • CompTIA Security+ certification
  • Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes
  • Familiarity with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or GCP)
  • Experience with monitoring, logging, and observability tools
  • Exposure to DevSecOps practice and secure development pipelines
  • Experience with ArcGIS Enterprise SDKs, automation frameworks, or platform extensions
  • Experience building services for geospatial analysis, data pipelines, or map services
  • Familiarity with enterprise authentication, proxies, and secure service architectures
  • Experience with relational and spatial databases (PostgreSQL/PostGIS, SQL Server, etc.)
  • Exposure to event-driven architectures, batch processing, or distributed data workflows

Clearance Requirement:

  • Active/Current Top Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, FTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

#LI-Onsite


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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US