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Geospatial Information System Jobs in California

Sr. Generative AI Software Developer

Redlands, CA · On-site

$54.75 - $72.50/hr

... of geospatial data quality capabilities across the ArcGIS platform. In this role, you will design ... Esri is a software company that devolops geographic information system software, location ...

Sr. Software Development Engineer - Gen AI

Redlands, CA · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

... of geospatial data quality capabilities across the ArcGIS platform. In this role, you will design ... Esri is a software company that devolops geographic information system software, location ...

Showing results 41-60

Geospatial Information System information

See California salary details

$5

$29

How much do geospatial information system jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for geospatial information system in California is $28.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.70 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a geospatial information system?

Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) are computer-based tools that capture, store, analyze, manage, and display spatial or geographic data. GIS allows users to visualize, interpret, and understand patterns, relationships, and trends in geographic data through maps, reports, and charts. These systems are widely used in urban planning, environmental management, transportation, and many other fields to support decision-making and solve spatial problems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geospatial information system specialist?

To thrive as a GIS Specialist, you need expertise in spatial analysis, cartography, and data management, typically supported by a degree in geography, GIS, or a related field. Proficiency with GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS, familiarity with GPS technology, and certifications like GISP are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately interpreting spatial data, creating actionable insights, and supporting decision-making across various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in geospatial information systems and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in GIS often encounter challenges such as managing large and complex datasets, ensuring data accuracy, and integrating data from multiple sources. These can be addressed by developing strong data management practices, staying current with evolving GIS software tools, and collaborating closely with team members in IT, urban planning, and environmental science. Regular training and participation in professional networks can also help GIS specialists stay updated on best practices and emerging technologies.

What is the difference between Geospatial Information System vs GIS Technician?

AspectGeospatial Information SystemGIS Technician
CredentialsGIS certifications, degree in GIS, geography, or related fieldsSimilar certifications, often entry-level or technical certifications in GIS
Work EnvironmentDesigning, managing, and analyzing spatial data; often in offices or fieldworkData entry, map creation, data maintenance; primarily office-based
Industry UsageUsed across urban planning, environmental management, transportationSupports GIS projects within these industries, focusing on technical tasks

Both roles involve working with spatial data, but Geospatial Information System refers to the broader system and processes, while GIS Technician focuses on technical data management and map creation within that system.

Is a geospatial information system a good career field?

A career in geospatial information systems (GIS) is considered promising due to increasing demand for spatial data analysis in sectors like urban planning, environmental management, and transportation. GIS professionals typically need skills in GIS software, data management, and spatial analysis, with opportunities for certification and continuous learning. The field offers stable employment with potential for advancement and specialization.

Is geospatial information system still in demand?

The demand for GIS professionals remains strong across industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation, driven by the increasing use of spatial data analysis and mapping technologies. Skills in GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, along with knowledge of data management and spatial analysis, are highly valued in the job market.

What careers can you get with a Geospatial Information System?

A career in geospatial information systems (GIS) includes roles such as GIS analyst, GIS technician, GIS developer, cartographer, remote sensing specialist, and GIS manager. These positions involve working with spatial data, GIS software, and mapping tools to support urban planning, environmental management, transportation, and defense sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Geospatial Information System jobs in California?

For Geospatial Information System jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Geospatial Information System jobs?

Cities in California with the most Geospatial Information System job openings:

Infographic showing various Geospatial Information System job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,760 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Software Development Engineer II- Back End

Esri

Redlands, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Esri rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 246 rated software companies


Job description

Job Summary:
Esri is a leading company specializing in GIS technology, and they are seeking a Software Development Engineer II to build core backend services that solve complex problems. The role involves collaborating with a cross-functional team to develop APIs and backend tooling while supporting defense and intelligence clients.
Responsibilities:
• 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
Qualifications:
Required:
• 2+ years of professional backend software engineering experience
• Professional experience developing backend services using Python, JavaScript/Node.js and Java
• 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/system design, and testing and debugging distributed services
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills
• US citizenship with Active or Current (within 2 years of active) Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI eligibility
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or STEM related field
Preferred:
• Master's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, 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 practices 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, and more)
• Exposure to event-driven architecture, batch processing, or distributed data workflows
Company:
Esri is a software company that devolops geographic information system software, location intelligence, and mapping. Founded in 1969, the company is headquartered in Redlands, USA, with a team of 5001-10000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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Hours and flexibility

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About ESRI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our passion for improving quality of life through geography is at the heart of everything we do. Esri's geographic information system (GIS) technology inspires and enables governments, universities, and businesses worldwide to save money, lives, and our environment through a deeper understanding of the changing world around them.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Redlands, CA, US

Year founded

1969