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Geospatial Mapping Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

High-definition HD maps are foundational to enabling safe, scalable autonomous driving. We are ... Knowledge of geospatial data and coordinate systems * Ability to write highly complex, optimized ...

Data Scientist - Mapping

Foster City, CA · On-site

$176K - $240K/yr

High-definition HD maps are foundational to enabling safe, scalable autonomous driving. We are ... Knowledge of geospatial data and coordinate systems * Ability to write highly complex, optimized ...

High-definition HD maps are foundational to enabling safe, scalable autonomous driving. We are ... Knowledge of geospatial data and coordinate systems * Ability to write highly complex, optimized ...

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Geospatial Mapping information

What is the difference between Geospatial Mapping vs GIS Technician?

AspectGeospatial MappingGIS Technician
CredentialsGIS certifications, cartography, GIS software skillsGIS certifications, cartography, GIS software skills
Work EnvironmentField data collection, mapping projects, GIS labsOffice-based, data management, map creation
Industry UsageEnvironmental, urban planning, transportationGovernment agencies, utilities, environmental firms

Both roles require GIS knowledge and similar certifications, often working in overlapping industries. Geospatial Mapping focuses on creating and analyzing spatial data, often involving fieldwork and cartography. GIS Technicians primarily manage GIS databases, produce maps, and support GIS projects in office settings. While their skills overlap, Geospatial Mapping emphasizes data collection and map creation, whereas GIS Technicians focus on data management and technical support.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in geospatial mapping, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in geospatial mapping often encounter challenges such as managing large datasets, ensuring data accuracy, and integrating different types of spatial data. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with the latest GIS software, adopting standardized data collection and validation processes, and collaborating closely with cross-disciplinary teams like urban planners or environmental scientists. Regular training and clear project communication also help ensure that mapping outputs meet the needs of stakeholders and maintain high quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Geospatial Mapping Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geospatial Mapping Specialist, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in geography, cartography, and GIS, typically supported by a degree in geospatial science or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software (like ArcGIS or QGIS), remote sensing tools, and possibly certifications such as GISP are important. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help professionals excel in analyzing spatial data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for producing accurate maps and spatial analyses that support informed decision-making in fields ranging from urban planning to environmental management.

What is geospatial mapping?

Geospatial mapping is the process of collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data that is associated with specific locations on the Earth's surface. It involves using geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and other technologies to create maps and models that help in understanding patterns, relationships, and trends in spatial data. Geospatial mapping is widely used in industries such as urban planning, environmental science, transportation, and disaster management to make informed decisions based on the spatial distribution of resources and phenomena.

Is GIS a high demand job?

Geospatial mapping professionals, including GIS specialists, are in high demand across industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation due to the increasing reliance on spatial data analysis. The job often requires proficiency with GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS and relevant certifications, and employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily in the coming years.

Is geospatial analysis a good career?

Geospatial analysis is a viable career 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 skills in GIS software and data analysis. The field is expected to grow as organizations increasingly rely on spatial data for decision-making.

What GIS jobs pay the most?

Senior GIS analyst, GIS manager, and geospatial data scientist roles tend to have the highest salaries in the field, often exceeding $80,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced skills in GIS software, programming, and data analysis, and may involve leadership or specialized technical expertise.

Will GIS be replaced by AI?

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) professionals use AI to enhance data analysis, automate tasks, and improve spatial modeling. While AI tools are increasingly integrated into GIS workflows, they complement rather than replace the core skills of GIS specialists, who also require knowledge of cartography, spatial analysis, and GIS software. Staying current with AI advancements and developing skills in data science can benefit GIS professionals in the evolving job market.
What cities in California are hiring for Geospatial Mapping jobs? Cities in California with the most Geospatial Mapping job openings:
Infographic showing various Geospatial Mapping job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Data Scientist - Mapping

Zoox

Foster City, CA

$176K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

High-definition HD maps are foundational to enabling safe, scalable autonomous driving. We are seeking highly motivated engineers who are passionate about solving complex, real-world problems and building state-of-the-art mapping systems.

In this role, you will collaborate with a diverse, cross-functional team to design and develop large-scale HD mapping algorithms, workflows, and data pipelines. Your work will directly impact our ability to efficiently map new cities and continuously update existing maps at scale, playing a critical role in accelerating our autonomous vehicle deployment.

In this role, you will:
  • Design and build a high-quality, large-scale mapping dataset and data pipelines for training and evaluating machine learning models

  • Design and build tools for model performance benchmarking and introspection 

  • Collaborate closely with machine learning engineers to define and refine data curation and model training strategies that drive measurable improvements in model accuracy and performance.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with a variety of teams working on things such as perception, planning, prediction, simulation, etc

Qualifications:
  • BS or MS in Computer Science or related field and 3+ years of experience

  • Proficient in Python 

  • Strong Statistical Foundations: Deep understanding of hypothesis testing, experimental design, regression analysis, non-parametric/resampling methods (e.g., bootstrapping, permutation tests), and time-series analysis handling autocorrelated data.

  • Experience with large-scale, multi-modal datasets, benchmarking and introspection

  • Ability to identify, clean, and process datasets containing high levels of noise or ambiguous classifications

Bonus Qualifications:
  • Experience in computer vision, machine learning algorithms,

  • Knowledge of geospatial data and coordinate systems

  • Ability to write highly complex, optimized SQL queries for massive distributed databases,

  •  and Databricks experience

 
Base Salary Range 
 
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
 
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
About Zoox
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.

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Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com or your assigned recruiter.

A Final Note:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.