How to Become A GIS Specialist In South Africa

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialists design, develop, and implement systems and databases to access and store geospatial data. They analyze this data utilizing mapping software.

What Does a GIS Specialist Do

There are certain skills that many gis specialists have in order to accomplish their responsibilities. By taking a look through resumes, we were able to narrow down the most common skills for a person in this position. We discovered that a lot of resumes listed communication skills, creativity and analytical skills.

Is GIS a good career?

GIS is an exciting and professional choice for people. If you are curious about exploring the world and knowing more about the environment, it is best to have a GIS career. You will be successful and will remain successful if you have a growth mindset and continue to learn and grow every day.

Is GIS a dying field?

GIS is dead, but not so much. For those looking for a job, it pays to call yourself a data scientist with geospatial skills as opposed to a GIS professional. Salary bump is as much as 25% and explains why many colleges and universities are now offering data science specialties and certificates.

Career Requirements to Become A GIS Specialist In South Africa

Degree LevelAssociate or bachelor’s degree
Degree FieldGIS technology, geomatics, environmental science
Licensure and CertificationVoluntary certification available through the National Society of Professional Surveyors and the South African Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
ExperienceSome experience may be required
Key SkillsTroubleshooting skills; abstract thinking; knowledge of technical design applications like ArcView GIS or ESRI extensions and AutoCAD
SalaryR 778097.86 (2020 median for GIS specialists)

Below are steps to Become A GIS Specialist In South Africa

1: Obtain Postsecondary Training in GIS Technology

Individuals interested in becoming GIS specialists will need postsecondary training due to the advanced computer programs and technology used in this field. Undergraduate certificate and degree programs are available in GIS technology.

These programs provide students with the knowledge and skills for entry-level positions. Courses include computer mapping and graphics, technical drafting, principles of geography, geospatial data and technology, cartographic design and digital image processing.

Step 2: Seek Employment

Employers often seek applicants for positions within the energy and engineering industries. GIS technicians are needed to develop data models for datasets, develop web-based GIS applications, perform complex integrated computer programming, conduct spatial analyses and produce maps, reports, presentations and other materials.

Most jobs require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, GIS, geography or a related degree, along with four or five years of GIS database experience.

Step 3: Obtain a Professional Credential

GIS specialists who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills for advancement and other career opportunities may obtain professional credentials through multiple agencies.

For example, the Imaging and Geospatial Information Society offers certification programs related to mapping, including the Certified GIS/LIS Technologist credential. Candidates must have relevant education and work experience and pass a written exam. Renewal of the certification is required.

Step 4: Pursue Continuing Education

GIS specialists may want to continue their education to improve their career knowledge and opportunities. Graduate-level degree and certificate programs are available in geographic information systems technology.

Such programs allow workers to research and focus on areas such as geospatial technology development, cartography and visualization or planning and design. These advanced programs also enhance technical expertise in various GIS technology. Some master’s degree programs are also available online.

Where can I study GIS in South Africa?

4 Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Master’s in South Africa

M.Sc. Meteorology. Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

M.A. Geography and Environmental Studies. Stellenbosch University.

Master. Environmental Management. Faculty of Applied Sciences.

M.Sc. Applied Science Transportation Planning.

How many years does it take to study GIS in South Africa ?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing The MSc by coursework and research report in the field of Geographical Information Systems is a 1 year full-time degree.

What skills do you need to be a GIS specialist in South Africa ?

8 Critical Skills You Need to be a Successful GIS Professional

Basic Programming Knowledge.

Involvement in Professional Organizations.

A Great Network.

Keep Learning.

Software-Specific Knowledge.

Analytical and Critical Thinking.

Project Management.

Sales Skills.

Is GIS a good career?

GIS is an exciting and professional choice for people. If you are curious about exploring the world and knowing more about the environment, it is best to have a GIS career. You will be successful and will remain successful if you have a growth mindset and continue to learn and grow every day.

Is GIS a dying field in South Africa ?

GIS is dead, but not so much. For those looking for a job, it pays to call yourself a data scientist with geospatial skills as opposed to a GIS professional. Salary bump is as much as 25% and explains why many colleges and universities are now offering data science specialties and certificates.

Is a GIS degree worth it in South Africa ?

For employers that require scientific legitimacy, GIS masters programs job candidates often stand out a bit better, due to their higher education background. A Master’s Degree in GIS would be greatly beneficial in the private sector because a consulting company can bill you out at a higher hourly rate to clients.

Is GIS easy to learn?

i would recommend it to those who need to have some basic knowledge of GIS. it’s very easy to learn the ArcGIS because of the instructions and demos given by the instructor.

What is a GIS technician?

GIS stands for geographic information systems. GIS technicians create maps and custom GIS software or applications for a variety of purposes. As a GIS technician, you interpret maps, manipulate digital land data, and manage the information entered in your GIS database.

What do GIS employers look for in South Africa ?

While they are not the only software packages out there, a good majority of GIS positions are looking for proficiency in ArcGIS and/or QGIS. Common tasks involve cartographic output (mapmaking) and data manipulation. A lot of positions are also starting to look for some basic programming experience.

How much do GIS analysts make in South Africa ?

The average GIS Analyst I salary in California is R 988593.09 as of August 27, 2021, but the range typically falls between R 869093.82 and R 1084667.05.

What is the difference between a GIS analyst and GIS technician?

For the GIS Technician, GIS is the job. For a GIS user, GIS is an adjunct to or tool for the job. GIS Analyst – Probably more experienced than the GIS Technician and probably having some specialist knowledge of spatial analysis maybe in a particular field (e.g. oil sector, renewable energy, civil engineering etc).