GIS Specialist vs. GIS Analyst: What Are the Differences?

If you’re interested in a career in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), you may be wondering what the difference is between a GIS Specialist and a GIS Analyst. Both roles are important in the field of GIS, but they have different responsibilities. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between a GIS Specialist and a GIS Analyst, and we’ll provide some tips on how to choose the right role for you.

What is a GIS Specialist?

GIS Specialists are responsible for designing, developing and implementing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) within organizations. They work with stakeholders to determine project requirements and objectives, then create detailed GIS plans. GIS Specialists develop GIS databases and applications, and provide training and support to users. They also conduct research to stay up-to-date on GIS advancements and trends. GIS Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, geography or a related field. They also have experience working with GIS software and hardware, as well as strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

What is a GIS Analyst?

GIS Analysts are responsible for creating and maintaining geographic information system (GIS) databases. They design and implement GIS projects, as well as provide technical support and training to users. GIS Analysts also develop maps and other visual representations of data to help users better understand complex information. They may work in a variety of industries, such as natural resources, urban planning, transportation, marketing or government.

GIS Specialist vs. GIS Analyst

Here are the main differences between a GIS specialist and a GIS analyst.

Job Duties

A GIS specialist performs a wide range of duties related to the creation, maintenance and use of geographic information systems. These professionals may create databases and maps from scratch or update existing databases and maps. They also troubleshoot issues with existing databases and maps and develop solutions for these issues.

A GIS analyst performs a wide range of duties related to analyzing geographic data. An analyst may conduct surveys, collect GPS coordinates and perform other research activities to help them understand how different groups are using maps and what improvements can be made to maps. Analysts may also test new maps to ensure that they’re working properly and communicate findings and recommendations to other staff members.

Job Requirements

GIS specialists and GIS analysts typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in geography, computer science, engineering or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many professionals in this field pursue certifications through the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) or the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use GIS software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

GIS specialists and GIS analysts often work in different environments. A GIS specialist may work for a city or county government, where they can use their expertise to help local officials make decisions about infrastructure projects. They may also work for private companies that provide mapping services to the public.

GIS analysts typically work in an office environment, but they may travel to meet with clients or attend conferences related to GIS technology. Some GIS analysts work for federal agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Skills

There are several similarities in the specific skills used on the job between GIS specialists and GIS analysts. Both roles require excellent problem-solving skills to identify issues and develop solutions. They also both need strong analytical skills to interpret data and make recommendations based on their findings. In addition, both GIS specialist and GIS analyst roles require excellent attention to detail to ensure accuracy in their work.

However, there are some differences in the specific skills used on the job between GIS specialists and GIS analysts. GIS specialists tend to focus more on the technical aspects of the job, such as developing and maintaining GIS software and hardware. They also may spend more time working with databases and performing quality control checks. GIS analysts, on the other hand, typically focus more on using GIS tools to solve problems and answer questions. They also may spend more time working with stakeholders to understand their needs and develop maps and reports that meet those needs.

Salary

GIS specialists and GIS analysts both work with geographic information systems. GIS specialists earn an average salary of $68,112 per year, while GIS analysts earn an average salary of $68,239 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.