1. Agricultural Careers Geographic Information Systems Specialist By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Ms. Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START

2. Job Duties & Responsibilities Gather data from a variety of sources, such as satellites, tabular data, aerial photography, and maps. Sometimes it is necessary to participate in gathering field data, such as mapping, taking samples or placing data markers. Use computer technology to combine this data into a single map. Draw conclusions from the data created, and present these conclusions to others.

3. Qualities and Skills A GIS specialist must enjoy working with computers and must be capable of paying adequate attention to detail. They should have a strong knowledge of computers and be patient.

4. Salary The salary range for this field depends significantly on degree level and certification, but it can range from $22,000 a year to the low $60,000s (for management positions).

5. Work Environment Office working with a computer, processing data In the field, gathering data

6. Coursework in both high school and college should focus on geography, computer science, engineering, algebra, trigonometry, drafting and geology. From there, many 2-year academic and technical institutions offer education and training in GIS and related fields (such as photogrammetry and remote sensing). Associate degrees and certificate programs in GIS and similar curricula provide a sound foundation for work experience or for transfer to other academic institutions for further education. It is highly recommended that an individual wishing to pursue a career in this field participate in an internship program to obtain hands-on experience as part of their preparation for employment. And, like in many rapidly advancing high-tech fields, continuing education in GIS is necessary to keep current as a professional. Education

7. Career Resources U.S. Geological Survey 509 National Center Reston, VA 20192, USA Geospatial Information and Technology Association Internet: http://www.gita.org The Imaging and Geospatial Information Society Internet: http://www.asprs.org/ GIS for Agriculture Internet: http://www.farmresearch.com/gis/default.asp Internet Guide to Geographic Information Systems Internet: http://www.gis.com United States Geological Service Internet: http://erg.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/gis_poster/