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Salary

How much does a GIS Specialist make?

The average salary for a GIS Specialist is $72,235 per year in the US.

GIS Specialists use technology to map and analyze data. They work in many different fields, from environmental science to urban planning. Their skills are in demand, and they can earn a good salary. The average yearly salary for a GIS Specialist is around $72,235. This means that most GIS Specialists will earn somewhere near this amount each year.

GIS Specialists can earn more as they gain experience. The salary can also depend on the industry and the location. For example, those working in tech companies or big cities may earn more. Here is a look at the salary range for GIS Specialists:

  • 10% earn less than $39,860
  • 25% earn less than $49,283
  • 50% earn less than $58,705
  • 75% earn less than $77,551
  • 90% earn less than $96,396
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What are the highest paying cities for a GIS Specialist?

GIS specialists can find some of the best-paying jobs in major cities across the country. Los Angeles, CA, leads with an average salary of $106,831. Other top cities include Washington, DC, and Sacramento, CA, offering salaries around $82,764 and $81,661, respectively. Exploring job opportunities in these cities can help GIS specialists secure higher earnings. Austin, TX, and San Diego, CA, also provide competitive salaries, with averages of $79,137 and $77,721. These cities offer a mix of government and private sector jobs, making them attractive for professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for GIS Specialist jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $106,831 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $73,969.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $106,831
    In Los Angeles, a specialist in geographic information systems can find work with tech companies and government agencies. Major firms like Esri and local government offices often seek GIS experts.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $82,764
    Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of government and private sector opportunities for GIS specialists. Agencies like the EPA and private firms in the tech sector are always looking for skilled professionals.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $81,661
    Sacramento provides a mix of government and environmental roles for GIS specialists. The state government and companies like Esri often have openings for those with expertise in this field.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  4. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $79,137
    Austin is known for its tech-savvy environment, making it a great place for GIS specialists. Companies like Dell and local government agencies offer many opportunities for those in this field.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Austin, TX


  5. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $77,721
    San Diego offers a vibrant job market for GIS specialists, with opportunities in both the tech and government sectors. Companies like Qualcomm and local government offices are often hiring.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $76,710
    Minneapolis provides a range of opportunities for GIS specialists, with both tech companies and government agencies in need of skilled professionals. Firms like Esri and local government offices often seek GIS experts.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  7. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $76,104
    Houston offers a diverse job market for GIS specialists, with opportunities in both the energy and government sectors. Companies like Baker Hughes and local government offices often have openings for GIS professionals.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Houston, TX


  8. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $75,610
    Chicago provides a dynamic environment for GIS specialists, with opportunities in both the tech and government sectors. Companies like Esri and local government agencies often seek skilled professionals.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL


  9. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $74,944
    Atlanta offers a growing job market for GIS specialists, with opportunities in both the tech and government sectors. Companies like Esri and local government offices often have openings for GIS professionals.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Atlanta, GA


  10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $73,969
    Denver provides a range of opportunities for GIS specialists, with both tech companies and government agencies in need of skilled professionals. Firms like Esri and local government offices often seek GIS experts.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Denver, CO

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

AECOM offers GIS specialists a competitive salary, averaging around $84,780. This company provides a strong financial incentive for those in the field. CDM Smith also pays well, with an average salary of about $67,909 for GIS specialists. Both companies present excellent opportunities for career growth and financial stability.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for GIS Specialist jobs, highlighting AECOM with the highest at $84,780 and CDM Smith with the lowest at $67,909.
  1. AECOM
    Average Salary: $84,780
    AECOM offers exciting opportunities for GIS Specialists. They work on projects in many locations, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. AECOM focuses on infrastructure, buildings, and the environment. They use GIS to manage data and make smart decisions.


  2. CDM Smith
    Average Salary: $67,909
    CDM Smith provides a range of roles for GIS Specialists. They work in areas like water, energy, and transportation. The company operates in many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. CDM Smith uses GIS to solve complex problems and improve communities.

How to earn more as a GIS Specialist?

GIS Specialists can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. These professionals use geographic information systems to analyze spatial data. They can boost their income by gaining specialized skills and certifications. This can make them more valuable to employers. Networking and building a strong professional reputation can also lead to higher-paying positions.

GIS Specialists should consider the following factors to earn more:

  1. Certifications: Earning certifications from recognized organizations can enhance a GIS Specialist's credentials. These certifications demonstrate expertise in specific GIS software and tools.
  2. Advanced Degrees: Pursuing a master's degree in GIS or a related field can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Advanced degrees often lead to roles with more responsibility and higher salaries.
  3. Specialized Skills: Developing skills in emerging technologies, such as remote sensing or data analysis, can make a GIS Specialist more competitive. These skills can lead to roles that require specialized knowledge and command higher pay.
  4. Experience: Gaining experience in various industries can increase earning potential. Experience in sectors like urban planning, environmental management, or public health can make a GIS Specialist more versatile and valuable.
  5. Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help GIS Specialists connect with potential employers.

Currently 61 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
61 Job Openings