Starting Your Geospatial Journey

STARTING YOUR GEOSPATIAL JOURNEY

Like the tech industry, the geospatial technology domain presents certain challenges when it comes to establishing a career. Apart from the initial hassle of filtering through numerous job opportunities within the field, progressing and achieving success requires a significant amount of effort and learning. Keeping abreast of state-of-the-art tools, skills, and knowledge can be particularly difficult for many individuals.

(Image by Magnet.me from Pixabay)

Addressing these challenges is therefore pertinent as there is a paucity of information that provides geospatial career guidance. This is the goal of this article. Therefore, whether you are starting a career in the geospatial domain or considering a career change and looking for the role that best fits, based on your current skills and interests or prospective career goals, this article provides an overview of the major geospatial career roles and the skills that you may need to function effectively in them. This guide should however serve as a blueprint rather than a strict instruction because these roles and skills are prone to changes or overlaps and hence not cast in stone.

WHY GEOSPATIAL TECHNOLOGY?

I like to refer to geospatial technology as a ‘green technology’. This is partly because, despite its existence for over six decades, opportunities are still largely untapped. It is constantly evolving with innovative trends explored to solve global issues. It is remarkable how often I am asked to describe my profession – if I had a penny for each instance, I would be on my way to constructing a Rocketship of my own😉. A substantial portion of the population remains uninformed about the abundance of possibilities afforded by geospatial technology and the products it generates. Another reason why I refer to geospatial technology as a ‘green technology’ is that it is a field that is directly involved with the earth and the universe, hence it is very much at the heart of sustainable development and in fact a core tool that enables us to enhance sustainability through close monitoring of the earth systems.

(Image by AI from DALLE-E)

WHO CAN?

Now, I dare say that there is room for anyone in the geospatial domain, just as is applicable in the tech industry. Careers in the geospatial technological domain is not restricted to persons with academic backgrounds in computer science, and earth sciences. However, it is important to have the necessary domain knowledge and core geospatial skills to successfully function and grow in the field.

CAREER ROLES IN THE GEOSPATIAL

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First, it is important to note that the geospatial workspace is cross-functional. This means that within the workspace a geospatial specialist interacts with different functional departments such as operations, finance, policy, business intelligence, engineering, DevOps, and data science. Also, the distinct roles in the geospatial domain over time have evolved into new functional areas which are interrelated to other professional domains. Another noteworthy fact is that there are core skills that are domain-specific and central to almost all geospatial roles, such as foundational spatial domain knowledge (distances, raster and vectors, spatial joints, and neighbourhood analysis etc,), the ability to work with large datasets, task automation skills (e.g., Python) as well as soft skills to enable team collaboration.

For the sake of simplicity and generalisation, this article broadly streamlined geospatial job roles into the following six roles.

• GIS ANALYST

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The role of a GIS Analyst, also known as a Geospatial Analyst, Expert, or Consultant, is crucial in the geospatial domain as they are responsible for analysing and visualizing geospatial data using Geographic Information Systems technology to aid decision-making and problem-solving across industries. Moreover, as most geospatial analyses are better conveyed through maps, graphs, or dashboards, GIS analysts may also function as cartographers.

Broadly, a GIS Analyst is responsible for collecting and managing geospatial data from various sources; analysing geospatial data using GIS software and statistical methods; creating maps, reports, and visualizations to communicate results; interpreting and summarizing data for stakeholders and supporting data-driven decision-making by providing geospatial insights and analysis. These duties however require some skills and competencies in basic knowledge areas such as:

• Strong analytical skills and experience with geospatial data analysis tools and software, such as ArcGIS, QGIS, GRASS GIS etc.
• Knowledge of geospatial data, including topology, spatial data structures, and cartographic principles.
• Familiarity with spatial database infrastructures and tools such as SQL of MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, to communicate results effectively to stakeholders.
• Knowledge of at least one programming language such as Python, JavaScript, and SPSS or R for statistical data analyses is also necessary to automate processes and create custom tools.
• Experience with geospatial analysis software such as ArcGIS or QGIS and remote sensing software such as ERDAS, ENVI or eCOGNITION.
• Cartographic and visualization skills using software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Inkscape or GIMP to accentuate to enhance designs.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking.

 

• GEO-DATA VISUALISATION EXPERT OR CARTOGRAPHER

(Image by Author)

A cartographer is a professional who creates maps and visual representations of geographical information. They use data and technology to design, develop, and produce maps for various purposes, including navigation, environmental analysis, resource management, and urban planning.

Essentially, a cartographer is responsible for collecting, analysing and interpreting geospatial data from various sources including GIS databases, remotely sensed data and field surveys;  designing and producing aesthetically appealing maps and visual representations of geographical information; ensuring the accuracy and quality of map data and visual representations; evaluating and selecting appropriate mapping software and technologies and providing technical support and training to end-users.

The skills and competencies required for a Cartographer typically include:

• Strong technical expertise in GIS, cartography, and map design.
• Excellent design and visualization skills, including experience with graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or GIMP.
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art mapping libraries such as Leaflet, Mapbox, OpenLayers, or Google Maps API.
• Knowledge of statistical software such as R, and SPSS.
• Soft skills such as strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills excellent communication as well as presentation skills, to communicate results effectively to stakeholders.

 

• GEOINFORMATICS EXPERT

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Akin to the Geospatial Analyst role is the role of a Geoinformatics Expert. However, the Geoinformatics Expert is a professional who combines expertise in geospatial technologies and information technology to support decision-making and problem-solving in various industries.

Broadly, a Geoinformatics Expert is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining geospatial databases and systems; designing and implementing geospatial solutions to support various applications, including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial data infrastructure (SDI); analysing and interpreting geospatial data to support decision-making and problem-solving; developing custom geospatial tools and applications to meet specific business needs as well as providing technical support and training to end-users

The skills and competencies that enable a Geoinformatics Expert to function efficiently may include:

• Strong technical expertise in geospatial technologies and information technologies.
• Experience with GIS software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or GRASS GIS.
• Knowledge of geospatial data, including topology, spatial data structures, and cartographic principles.
• Familiarity with databases PostgreSQL, SQL Server, or MySQL.
• Strong programming skills, including experience with statistical and programming languages such as SPSS, Python, R, or JavaScript.
• Cartographic and visualization software such as Adobe Creative Suite or Tableau
• Basic knowledge of scripting such as Shell Scripting and GDAL.
• Remote sensing software such as ENVI, SEN2COR, E-COGNITION or ERDAS IMAGINE.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, to communicate results effectively to stakeholders.

 

• REMOTE SENSING EXPERT

(Image by USGS on Unsplash)

A Remote Sensing Specialist/Expert is a professional who uses remote sensing techniques and technologies to acquire, process, and analyse data from satellites, aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Lidar, and radar systems to support decision-making and problem-solving in various industries. In practice, a remote sensing expert does not have to be an expert in all these products, but a good knowledge of all is important, as well as an expert in at least one of these of them.

The duties of a Remote Sensing Specialist/Expert are typically collecting, processing and analysing  remote sensing data from various platforms including satellites, UAVs, Lidar, and radar systems; developing algorithms for data processing and analysis visualizing and interpreting remote sensing data to support decision-making and problem-solving; conducting research and development in remote sensing technologies and providing technical support and training to end-users.

The skills and competencies required for a Remote Sensing Specialist/Expert typically include:

• strong technical expertise in remote sensing acquisition processing and analysis of remotely sensed data such as optical, radar, lidar and UAV images.
• knowledge of data processing and analysis techniques, including experience with software such as ENVI, eCOGNITION, ERDAS Imagine, or MATLAB.
• Familiarity with UAVs, Lidar, and radar systems, including experience with their use in remote sensing applications such as Pix4D or Agisoft or OpenDroneMap for photogrammetry and PDAL or Whitebox or CloudCompare or LASTools for Lidar processing.
• Knowledge of Cloud processing software or platforms such as Google Earth Engine, AWS, Microsoft Planetary Computer or Azure.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills; strong programming skills, including experience with programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, to communicate results effectively to stakeholders.

 

• GEO-DATA SCIENTIST

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A Geo-Data Scientist is simply a data scientist with domain expertise in earth observation. A Geo-Data Scientist is a professional who uses data science and geospatial techniques to solve real-world problems in various domains, including environmental science, urban planning, agriculture, and disaster management.

Some of the duties of a Geo-Data Scientist typically include collecting, processing, and analysing large amounts of geospatial data from various sources; building predictive models and machine learning algorithms to gain insights from geospatial data; developing algorithms and tools to process and analyse geospatial data efficiently; collaborating with stakeholders to understand their data needs and to support their decision-making processes; and communicating results and insights effectively to stakeholders through data visualization, presentations, and reports.

The skills and competencies required for a Geo-Data Scientist typically include:

• Strong technical expertise in data science, machine learning, and geospatial techniques.
• Knowledge of GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS.
• Familiarity with data processing and analysis techniques, including experience with programming languages such as Python or R.
• Knowledge of machine learning libraries such as Jupiter, Matplotlib, Pandas, Scikit-learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow or Keras, etc.
• Experience in data visualization using Python / R or visualisation tools like Tableau or Power BI.
• Experience using geospatial data management tools such as PostGIS, MySQL, and PostgreSQL.
• Experience in the use of cloud platforms such as Google Earth Engine, AWS, Azure, and Planetary Computing.
• Knowledge of big data pipelines such as Apache Spark, Snowflakes, and FME
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, to communicate results effectively to stakeholders.

 

• GEOSPATIAL DEVELOPER

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A Geospatial Developer is a professional who develops software and or web applications that utilize geospatial data and technologies. They play a critical role in bridging the gap between data and insights, and building applications that help users make better decisions.

The duties of a Geospatial Developer typically include designing, developing, and testing geospatial software and or web applications; implementing geospatial algorithms and techniques into software and or web applications; collaborating with stakeholders to understand their requirements and supporting their decision-making processes; creating and maintaining technical documentation; staying up to date with emerging technologies and trends in the geospatial domain.

Skills and competencies required of a geospatial web developer may include:

• Strong technical expertise in web development including expertise in tools in web programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, ReactJS, FLASK, Django, and Express.
• Mapping and geospatial libraries such as Leaflet, Open Layers, Mapbox.gl, Google Maps API.
• Knowledge of geospatial databases such as PostGIS, GeoServer and PostgreSQL
• Familiarity with geospatial data management, analysis, and visualization tools such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Source control tools such as Git or SVN.
• Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as PyCharm or Visual Studio Code.

Skills and competencies required of a geospatial software developer may include:

• Strong technical expertise in web development including expertise in tools in web programming languages such as Java, C++, and Python.
• Mapping and geospatial libraries such as Leaflet, OpenLayers, or Google Maps API.
• Knowledge of geospatial databases such as PostGIS, GeoServer and PostgreSQL
• Source control tools such as Git or SVN.
• Familiarity with geospatial data management, analysis, and visualization tools such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as PyCharm or Visual Studio Code.
• Good problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, to collaborate effectively with stakeholders.

Some additional geospatial positions, such as Geospatial Researchers, Geospatial Architects, Geospatial Data Engineers, Geo-data Acquisition experts, and others, typically require the fundamental skills previously outlined.

It is important to emphasise that these skill sets are developed over time. To avoid too much pressure when acquiring these skills as an entry-level employee or a newbie in the industry, emphasis should be placed on acquiring the basic technical skills and domain knowledge first and having first-hand practical experience with them before adding more skills to your arsenal as the need arises. It is also important to document learning progress as a receipt of experience with these skills. To get an insight into the remunerations in the field for these roles check out this article.

(Image Source: Pixabay)

Now that you know to the major geospatial roles, how do you begin? Here are a few platforms that provide useful learning resources that can help you kickstart your journey or upskill for these roles.

1. Coursera – for GIS training, soft skills, Project Management, Database, Change Management etc.
2. GISGeography – for spatial domain knowledge.
3. GeoUniversity – for geospatial tutorials.
4. GIS Lounge –  for geospatial tutorials.
5. Spatial thoughts – QGIS, GDAL, Google Earth Engine and other great tutorials.
6. PluralSight – for database, programming, cloud computing courses, etc
7. UDEMY – GeoServer, GIS Tutorials, and other great courses.
8. Microsoft Learn – for cloud computing, databases, SQL Server.
9. Alison – for GIS training, soft skills, Project Management, Database, Change Management etc.
10. ARSET NASA – for earth observation training for beginners and professionals.
11. GIS Stack Exchange – Geospatial help platform.
12. LinkedIn: To grow professionally, join LinkedIn. By using LinkedIn, you can meet professionals in your field, gain inspiration from their work, and access all the resources shared on the platform for free. Additionally, with a LinkedIn premium account, you can benefit from access to excellent learning resources in various domains, including geospatial and other great soft skills courses.
13. YouTube: The list is incomplete without YouTube University😄. Tutorials are available on YouTube for FREE!

Some free and open source software (FOSS) such as  QGIS, GRASS GIS, GeoServer, Sen2Cor, offers great beginner and expert tutorials for users, while commercial software like eCOGNITION, and ArcGIS, offer training and paid short courses that are very helpful. For insight into some Copernicus products, the Copernicus MOOC is also helpful. For great cartography tutorials, do check on John Nelson’s on YouTube, as well as software like Blender, GIMP, and Inkscape. For programming tutorials, W3Schools and YouTube are great for a start. There is so much more available on the web for free, just search and research and the ‘world’ is your oyster.

Enjoy your learning journey. Cheers!!!!

Disclaimer: It’s essential to keep in mind that the exact duties, skills, competencies, and tools required for a role may vary depending on the specific organization, industry, and project.

 

Written by: Arioluwa Aribisala & Claudia Blagu (Mentorship ID – 25)