It's estimated nearly ten thousand geospatial positions are either available at this time or will undoubtedly be within the very forseeable future and these numbers are expected to increase. That is an unbelievable statement, since most employment sectors are downsizing or eliminating positions completely. In a nutshell, a geospatial analyst assists with research, development and implementation of any number of geographical systems that allow for successful data collection for various studies and programs. By combining real-time information, latitude and longitude positioning, projections and actual results from satellites or global positioning systems, the analyst collects these details to be fed right into a database for private companies, governmental agencies, including all arms of the military and others like the FBI and NASA. A detailed knowledge of environmental modeling, environmental sciences, computer science, geography, and database design, maintenance and mining are mandatory. Most positions require a degree and many companies, since this can be a relatively new employment sector, can provide face to face training and mentoring. These tools, however, won't take the place of a degree.
Geocoding, defined as the process of adding geographic information to a file or database for use in a geographic information system (GIS), uses both "hard copies" and electronic types of maps. Anyone familiar with Google Maps or Microsoft Earth knows the power behind the science of GIS. The building blocks behind the science may be zip codes or actual addresses. Obviously, collecting and inputting this overwhelming amount of information into one database is both time consuming and is as helpful since it is accurate. The information is used in a myriad of ways, including appraisal efforts, utility planning, marketing, habitat info gathering, transportation and more. It's generally presented via electronic and 3D imaging methods but can be incorporated into maps, tables and graphs.
One interesting way this new technology is being involves meteorology. A great way to obtain the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, it could show the damage of storm systems, including major hurricanes and tornadoes, almost when these events happen. Anyone who's seen the before-and- after satellite images available after Hurricane Katrina, knows how powerful these advances are and how crucial the info could be. The nearly-mile long bridge that made travel between Ocean Springs and Biloxi, MS possible was destroyed during this powerful category four hurricane, however, not until the satellite images taken before the storm and then the images immediately following this hurricane was perspective found. Casinos that dotted the beach line prior to Katrina, displayed as solid foundations, were replaced with broken spots of what once was. It had been with GIS science that these images truly defined the damage. Tornadoes' paths of destruction are easily seen through this science and environmentalists employ geospatial analysts to follow melting icebergs, deteriorating beach lines and may regulate how fast oceans are warming. Just as in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when computers were becoming easily available and the internet was in its infancy, at the very least with regards to it learning to be a household necessity, these new geographic info systems are quickly becoming the must-have positions. Actually, a recent survey of meteorology and engineering majors indicated a pastime in crossovers into these new advances should the opportunity present itself. As our demand for more technology increases, so will the need for those who can incorporate these technologies into everyday living.
Unlike other databases, information stored for GIS purposes can be accessed by using a variety of parameters. Go here can provide information based on several parameters, such as the number of foreclosures in any particular area within a state. That same information, with just a couple of modifications to the parameters, can provide locations of buried cables. This universal approach, once information has been compiled, researched and entered into the database, can link with other agencies, states and also the federal government for even broader uses. As one might expect, trained and experienced surveyors, drafters, cartographers, geologists and engineers could be the ideal candidates for these positions. The Department of Labor anticipates a 38% increase for environmental engineers alone next decade. The median income is anticipated at nearly $62,000 annually, but it's noted this may be too conservative a number until and unless the supply and demand ratios commence to merge.
Other qualifications that may define ideal candidates include attention to detail since precision and accuracy, if compromised, can lead to a domino effect which will affect every inquiry made. Eyesight, coordination, and hearing are advantageous as well as a commitment to continuing education requirements will be necessary across the board in this field. Strong computer skills certainly are a must and the capability to work outdoors in a variety of terrains is necessary too.
Since satellite imageries often play key roles in effective mapping efforts, those people who are adept at not only reading these images, but who can incorporate the info for even more benefits is a focus for employers, both in the private and government sectors. Notable proof these benefits include the discovery, via GIS, of weapons of mass destruction overseas, tracking devices that are available these days for pets and automobiles together with real-time locations of airplanes at any given moment.
As anticipations grow with each new discovery, geospatial careers promise to become the gateway for highly advanced and instantly available information across the world.
A. Harrison Barnes may be the founder and CEO of EmploymentScape, the parent company of more than 90 job-search websites, employment services, recruiting firms and education loan companies. EmploymentScape (originally Juriscape) employs several hundred employees in 14 offices throughout the USA, Asia, and Europe. These businesses were literally started from Harrison's garage several years ago after Harrison quit his job.
Harrison resides in Malibu, California. He is a sought-after motivational speaker [http://www.aharrisonbarnes.com/speaking-coaching-and-workshop-fees] and writes articles relating to the legal community. Harrison is an active philanthropist and advocate for people reaching their full potential within their careers. Given his passion for job hunters and them reaching their full ability, Harrison recently started supplying a limited number of coaching engagements to job seekers.
