Position
Salary

How much does a GIS Specialist make?

The average salary for a GIS Specialist is $76,604 per year in the US.

GIS Specialists earn a competitive salary for their skills in mapping and spatial analysis. The average yearly salary stands at $76,604. Entry-level GIS Specialists can expect to earn around $42,866 per year. As experience grows, so do the salaries. GIS Specialists with more than 10 years in the field can earn upwards of $156,150 annually. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the career.


Here are some common salary points for GIS Specialists:

  • 10% earn $42,866
  • 25% earn $53,165
  • 50% earn $63,464
  • 75% earn $73,762
  • 90% earn $84,060
These figures provide a clear view of what different experience levels can expect. With dedication and skill, GIS Specialists can move up the salary ladder.

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What are the highest paying cities for a GIS Specialist?

Job seekers seeking top-paying positions for GIS Specialists can consider Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Austin. Los Angeles leads the way with an average salary of $110,088. Sacramento follows closely, offering $105,408 on average. Austin offers $96,424, making it a competitive choice. These cities offer strong opportunities for those in the GIS field. Houston, Atlanta, and Denver also present attractive options for GIS Specialists. Houston provides an average salary of $82,755. Atlanta offers $66,630, while Denver stands at $65,201. These cities provide potential for strong career growth in the GIS sector.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for GIS Specialist jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $110,088 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $65,201.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $110,088
    In Los Angeles, you will find numerous opportunities with major tech firms and government agencies. Companies like Esri and local government departments look for professionals to work on city planning and environmental projects. Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment with plenty of growth in the tech sector.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $105,408
    Sacramento has a strong demand for mapping and geographic data experts. State government offices and companies like TerraPoint Solutions often need help with land management and public safety. Working here allows you to contribute to critical projects with a stable job market.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  3. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $96,424
    Austin offers a vibrant job scene with many tech startups and established companies like IBM needing geographic data skills. The city's focus on innovation provides a supportive environment for professionals in this field. You can expect to be part of creative projects with a growing community.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Austin, TX


  4. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $82,755
    In Houston, you will find roles with major oil companies and tech firms. Companies like Schlumberger and local government bodies need expertise in mapping and data analysis. Houston’s diverse job market offers many opportunities for growth and professional development.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Houston, TX


  5. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $66,630
    Atlanta has a strong demand for mapping professionals in both the private sector and government. Companies like IBM and local government agencies rely on accurate geographic data. The city offers a mix of challenges and opportunities for those in this field.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Atlanta, GA


  6. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $65,201
    Denver offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and professional opportunities. Companies like Esri and state agencies often need mapping and geographic data skills. The city’s growth provides a dynamic environment with plenty of career advancement possibilities.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Denver, CO

What are the best companies a GIS Specialist can work for?

Job seekers interested in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can find lucrative opportunities at Amazon, where the average salary is $156,150. McMillen offers a solid average salary of $107,344 for GIS Specialists, making it another attractive option. AECOM and WSB provide competitive salaries of $69,580 and $45,667, respectively, for those seeking stable employment in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for GIS Specialist jobs, highlighting Amazon with the highest at $156,150 and WSB with the lowest at $45,667.
  1. Amazon
    Average Salary: $156,150
    Amazon offers exciting opportunities for GIS Specialists. They focus on logistics, delivery, and customer experience. They have locations worldwide, including the USA, UK, Canada, and more. GIS Specialists at Amazon use geographic data to improve operations and customer service.


  2. McMillen
    Average Salary: $107,344
    McMillen is a leading architectural firm that values GIS Specialists. They work on projects for schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. McMillen operates in several states, including Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. GIS Specialists here help plan projects by analyzing geographic data.


  3. AECOM
    Average Salary: $69,580
    AECOM provides jobs for GIS Specialists in environmental consulting and infrastructure planning. They work on projects globally, in places like Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. GIS Specialists at AECOM focus on mapping and data analysis to support sustainable development.


  4. WSB
    Average Salary: $45,667
    WSB, a well-known engineering and consulting firm, employs GIS Specialists. They handle projects for transportation, water resources, and utilities. WSB operates across the United States. GIS Specialists at WSB use mapping and analysis tools to support various projects.

How to earn more as a GIS Specialist?

A GIS Specialist can earn more by focusing on key areas that enhance their skills and value in the job market. Understanding the right strategies will help maximize earning potential. Investing in education and certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions. Specialization in a particular industry, such as urban planning or environmental science, can also lead to better opportunities.

Networking within the GIS community provides access to exclusive job openings and insights into industry trends. Gaining experience with advanced software and tools used in the field makes a candidate more attractive to employers. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies will help maintain a competitive edge. By focusing on these areas, a GIS Specialist can improve job prospects and earn a higher salary.

Here are five factors that can help a GIS Specialist earn more:

  1. Education and Certifications: Obtaining higher degrees and relevant certifications can lead to higher-paying roles.
  2. Industry Specialization: Focusing on a specific industry can make a specialist more valuable to employers.
  3. Networking: Building connections within the GIS community can provide access to better job opportunities.
  4. Advanced Skills: Mastering advanced software and tools can make a specialist more competitive.
  5. Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies is crucial for career growth.

Currently 6 GIS Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a GIS Specialist in the US?

Learn what a GIS Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a GIS Specialist today.
Position
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GIS Specialist
6 Job Openings