Geospatial Analytics Specialists

The majority of GASs have a bachelor’s degree, but some employers hire analysts with an associate’s degree and considerable (five to 10 years) on-the-job experience in lower-level positions.

To be a successful GAS, you must have knowledge of ArcGIS or other geospatial software, as well as skill at using Google Earth, Microsoft Virtual Earth, and similar open source data review tools. You also need technical experience with designing, creating, editing, and maintaining geodatabases and metadata for various projects; must be able to use data mining tools; have knowledge of quantitative and qualitative analytic methodologies; and have Python scripting experience.

Key personal traits for GSAs include strong analytical skills; the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, sometimes stressful environment; curiosity; attention to detail; problem-solving acumen; excellent oral and written communication skills; and the ability to work independently with little oversight.