Position
Salary

How much does a GIS Specialist make?

The average salary for a GIS Specialist is $74,950 per year in the US.

GIS specialists bring a valuable skill set to various industries, and their expertise is rewarded with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary for GIS specialists is around $74,950. This figure varies based on experience, education, and the specific sector in which they work.


Many factors can influence a GIS specialist's salary. Early-career professionals may start around $41,500. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly. Top earners in the field may see incomes exceeding $135,000 annually. Specializing in high-demand areas like environmental science or urban planning can also boost earning potential.

View GIS Specialist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a GIS Specialist?

GIS specialists often find rewarding opportunities in several cities, each offering a competitive salary. Columbus, OH leads the pack with an average salary of $139,609, making it a prime location for GIS professionals. Other high-paying cities include Seattle, WA, with $120,686, and Los Angeles, CA, at $107,959. These cities present great prospects for those seeking lucrative GIS positions.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for GIS Specialist jobs, highlighting Columbus, OH with the highest at $139,609 and Atlanta, GA with the lowest at $76,072.
  1. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $139,609
    In Columbus, professionals can find roles that blend urban development and natural resource management. Companies like Battelle and the State of Ohio often seek skilled specialists.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Columbus, OH


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $120,686
    Seattle offers a tech-savvy environment where mapping and data analysis are key. Microsoft and Amazon are prominent employers looking for experts in spatial data.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $107,959
    With its diverse landscape, Los Angeles is a hotspot for geographical information. Cities, utilities, and tech firms hire specialists to manage urban growth and infrastructure.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $92,082
    Sacramento values professionals who can handle state-level projects. The State of California employs many in roles that involve environmental mapping and urban planning.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  5. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $91,616
    Austin's growing tech scene provides ample opportunities for specialists. Companies like Dell and the City of Austin need experts to handle geographic data.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Austin, TX


  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $81,569
    In the capital, specialists can contribute to public policy and national security. Agencies like the U.S. Geological Survey and the Department of Defense are key employers.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $79,151
    Minneapolis values green initiatives and urban development. Employers like Target and the city’s planning department look for professionals to support their projects.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  8. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $78,107
    Houston's energy sector creates demand for mapping and analysis. Companies like Chevron and the City of Houston hire specialists for infrastructure and environmental projects.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Houston, TX


  9. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $76,127
    San Diego offers a mix of environmental and defense opportunities. The Navy and biotech firms hire specialists to manage spatial data effectively.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $76,072
    Atlanta is a growing market for urban planning and environmental management. Companies like The Home Depot and government agencies hire specialists for various projects.
    Find GIS Specialist jobs in Atlanta, GA

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

Amazon.com offers top-tier salaries for GIS Specialists, with an average pay of $156,372. This leading tech company provides exciting opportunities in a dynamic work environment. AECOM pays GIS Specialists an average salary of $80,010, making it another great choice for those seeking a rewarding career. Both companies value the skills of GIS Specialists and offer competitive benefits. Job seekers can explore these options for promising career growth.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for GIS Specialist jobs, highlighting Amazon.com with the highest at $156,372 and AECOM with the lowest at $80,010.
  1. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $156,372
    Amazon.com offers exciting opportunities for GIS Specialists. They work in Seattle, New York, and other locations. At Amazon, GIS Specialists analyze geographic data to improve logistics and delivery. They play a key role in enhancing the customer experience by optimizing routes.


  2. AECOM
    Average Salary: $80,010
    AECOM provides rewarding careers for GIS Specialists. This global company operates in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more. AECOM’s GIS Specialists focus on environmental consulting and infrastructure planning. They work on projects that improve communities and the environment.

How to earn more as a GIS Specialist?

GIS Specialists who aim to increase their earnings can do so by building on their skills and experience. The more knowledgeable and versatile a GIS Specialist is, the more attractive they become to employers. One way to achieve this is by earning certifications from respected organizations. These certifications demonstrate a high level of expertise and can often lead to higher-paying positions. Staying current with the latest software and technologies used in GIS is another critical step. This includes learning new tools and mastering current ones. Additionally, gaining experience in specialized areas of GIS, such as remote sensing or spatial analysis, can also open up higher-paying opportunities.

Networking and building relationships within the industry can further boost earning potential. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other GIS professionals can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Finally, considering a move to a region with a higher demand for GIS specialists and higher wages can make a significant difference. Researching and targeting areas where GIS jobs are in demand can lead to better-paying roles.

Here are five key factors to consider when aiming to increase your earnings as a GIS Specialist:

  1. Obtain Certifications: Seek certifications from recognized bodies to validate your skills.
  2. Stay Updated: Learn and master the latest GIS software and technologies.
  3. Specialize: Focus on specialized areas of GIS to increase your value.
  4. Network: Build and maintain professional relationships within the industry.
  5. Consider Location: Look for areas with higher demand and wages for GIS Specialists.

Currently 60 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
Overview
GIS Specialist
60 Job Openings