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Geospatial Science Jobs in State College, PA (NOW HIRING)

Penn State University

GIS Specialist

University Park, PA · On-site +1

$54K - $78K/yr

GIS and geospatial data analyses; statistical data analyses; watershed and agricultural science; knowledge of farming and conservation practices on farms; watershed management and solutions to ...

Penn State University

Grading Assistant

University Park, PA · On-site +1

$15 - $18.75/hr

Course topics may include geographic information systems (GIS), spatial data science, remote sensing, and geospatial programming. Responsibilities include evaluating student work in the learning ...

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Geospatial Science information

See State College, PA salary details

$62.3K

$77.1K

$92.2K

How much do geospatial science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for geospatial science in State College, PA is $77,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $81,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a geospatial science degree worth it?

A geospatial science degree provides foundational knowledge in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis, which are valuable skills in fields like urban planning, environmental management, and defense. The degree can improve job prospects and earning potential, especially when combined with certifications or experience with tools like ArcGIS or QGIS.

What is geospatial science?

A Geospatial Science job involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting spatial data to understand geographic patterns and relationships. Professionals in this field use technologies like GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and GPS to support decision-making in areas such as urban planning, environmental management, and disaster response. Roles may include GIS analysts, cartographers, surveyors, or remote sensing specialists. These jobs are found in industries like government, agriculture, transportation, and defense. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in geospatial software are essential for success in this field.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in geospatial science?

Professionals in Geospatial Science typically spend their days collecting, analyzing, and interpreting spatial data using GIS and remote sensing technologies. Responsibilities often include creating digital maps, conducting spatial modeling, managing geospatial databases, and supporting environmental or urban planning projects. Collaboration with engineers, surveyors, and project managers is common, as is the need to present findings to stakeholders through reports or visualizations. The role offers a dynamic mix of independent technical work and teamwork, making it ideal for those who enjoy both in-depth analysis and collaborative problem-solving.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in geospatial science, and why are they important?

To succeed in Geospatial Science, you need strong analytical skills, a background in geography or environmental science, and proficiency in spatial data analysis. Familiarity with GIS software (like ArcGIS or QGIS), remote sensing tools, and certifications such as GISP or Esri Technical Certification are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you work with interdisciplinary teams and convey complex spatial information. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data interpretation and impactful decision-making in projects involving mapping, planning, or resource management.

What jobs can I get with a geospatial science degree?

A geospatial science degree prepares individuals for roles such as GIS analyst, remote sensing specialist, cartographer, geospatial data analyst, and GIS technician. These jobs involve working with geographic information systems, spatial data analysis, mapping, and using tools like ArcGIS or QGIS in various industries including environmental management, urban planning, and defense.

What do geospatial scientists do?

Geospatial scientists analyze geographic data using tools like GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and GPS technology to study spatial patterns and relationships. They often work on mapping, environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management, requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of spatial data analysis.
What job categories do people searching Geospatial Science jobs in State College, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Geospatial Science jobs in State College, PA are:
Geospatial Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geospatial Science job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,065 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Research Data Scientist

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are looking for Research Data Scientist, to join our Geospatial Data Science team in the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. You will aid our research efforts in this unique problem area that has applications in defense, law enforcement, security, disaster relief, human geography, disaster preparedness, and first response.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Lead programs and teams and be part of a highly collaborative environment
  • Collaborate with geospatial data analysts to understand and automate workflows and improve human processes to advance the discovery and modeling of associations, trends, patterns and system dynamics
  • Support the creation of processes and algorithms to transform traditional GEOINT and open-source data into spatiotemporal information describing places, events, and activities
  • Combine full spectrum source data with modeling capabilities that associate real world objects to known signatures and doctrines
  • Develop the ability to discover and capture information from geospatial data to better represent the most advanced understanding of world events, systems, and discrete entities
  • Apply the scientific method across multiple disciplines to advance data and geospatial sciences and develop data analytics through systematic experimentation
  • Support scientific research projects and develop geospatial algorithms while collaborating among diverse domains to further scientific understanding and the use of analytic tools
  • Grow in career and capabilities, plan and conduct applied research, provide technical guidance and oversight, lead small-to-medium research efforts, report results, foster trusted relationships with sponsors, and advise on new and evolving technology and techniques
  • Engage in research efforts ranging from proof-of-concept through integrated production systems

Required skills/knowledge areas include:
  • Relevant work in Data Sciences, Computer Sciences, or Geospatial Sciences
  • Work within DoD/IC Analysis or Operational environments
  • Ability to design experiments, perform analysis, and design or apply meaningful metrics to measure results
  • Adapt and learn new skills, to execute specific research projects, and to meet task deadlines and goals
  • Computer programming in one or more of the following: Python, R, Java, C++, or Matlab
  • Highly adaptable, creative, lateral thinkers that enjoy a collaborative environment
  • Excellent communication skills, be dependable, responsive, curious, collaborative, and have high interpersonal skills
  • Active TS/SCI Clearance

Preferred skills/knowledge areas include:
  • A Doctorate degree
  • Git, GUI development, open source scientific computation, computer vision, modeling, or machine learning tools
  • High performance computing

Your working location will be in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $80,100.00 - $132,204.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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