The Role of a Geospatial Analyst
It's estimated nearly ten thousand geospatial positions are either available right now or will undoubtedly be within the very near future and these numbers are expected to increase. This 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 a variety 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 this information to be fed into a database for private companies, governmental agencies, including all arms of the military and others such as 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 several companies, since this is a relatively new employment sector, can offer face to face training and mentoring. These tools, however, won't replace a degree.
Geocoding, defined as the process of adding geographic information to a file or database for used in a geographic information system (GIS), uses both "hard copies" and electronic models of maps. Anyone familiar with Google Maps or Microsoft Earth knows the power behind the science of GIS. The foundation behind the science might be zip codes or actual addresses. Needless to say, collecting and inputting this overwhelming amount of information into one database is both time consuming and is only as helpful as it is accurate. The information is used in a myriad of ways, including appraisal efforts, utility planning, marketing, habitat info gathering, transportation and much 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 has been involves meteorology. An invaluable source of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, it could show the damage of storm systems, including major hurricanes and tornadoes, almost the moment 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 can be. The nearly-mile long bridge that made travel between Ocean Springs and Biloxi, MS possible was destroyed in this powerful category four hurricane, but not until the satellite images taken before the storm and then the images rigtht after this hurricane was perspective found. Casinos that dotted the beach line ahead of Katrina, displayed as solid foundations, were replaced with broken spots of what once was. It was with GIS science that these images truly defined the damage. 3D Modelling Langport of destruction are easily seen through this science and environmentalists employ geospatial analysts to check out melting icebergs, deteriorating beach lines and will regulate how fast oceans are warming. In the same way in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when computers were becoming readily available and the web was in its infancy, at the very least in terms of it becoming 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 necessity for individuals who can incorporate these technologies into living.
Unlike other databases, information stored for GIS purposes could be accessed by using a variety of parameters. One database can offer information based on a few parameters, such as the number of foreclosures in any particular area within a state. That same information, with just a few modifications to the parameters, can offer locations of buried cables. This universal approach, once information has been compiled, researched and entered in to the database, will be able to link with other agencies, states and also the 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 lots until and unless the supply and demand ratios begin to merge.
Other qualifications that will define ideal candidates include focus on detail since precision and accuracy, if compromised, can result in a domino effect which will affect every inquiry made. Eyesight, coordination, and hearing are beneficial as well as a commitment to continuing education requirements will undoubtedly be necessary across the board in this field. Strong computer skills certainly are a must and the ability 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 merely reading these images, but who can incorporate the info for even more benefits is really 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 and also real-time locations of airplanes at any given moment.
As anticipations grow with each new discovery, geospatial careers promise to end up being 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 greater than 90 job-search websites, employment services, recruiting firms and student loan companies. EmploymentScape (originally Juriscape) employs several hundred employees in 14 offices through the entire USA, Asia, and Europe. These businesses were literally started from Harrison's garage in the past after Harrison quit his job.
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