Study the nature and use of areas of the Earth's surface, relating and interpreting interactions of physical and cultural phenomena. Conduct research on physical aspects of a region, including land forms, climates, soils, plants, and animals, and conduct research on the spatial implications of human activities within a given area, including social characteristics, economic activities, and political organization, as well as researching interdependence between regions at scales ranging from local to global.
Projected Growth: Much faster than average (22% or higher)
Related Job Titles: Scientist; Environmental Scientist; Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst); Geographic Information Systems Program Director (GIS Program Director); Earth Observations Chief Scientist (NASA); Environmental Affairs Corporate Director; GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer); GIS Physical Scientist (Geographic Information Systems Physical Scientist); Research Coordinator
Create and modify maps, graphs, or diagrams, using geographical information software and related equipment, and principles of cartography such as coordinate systems, longitude, latitude, elevation, topography, and map scales.
Gather and compile geographic data from sources including censuses, field observations, satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and existing maps.
Analyze geographic distributions of physical and cultural phenomena on local, regional, continental, or global scales.
Develop, operate, and maintain geographical information computer systems, including hardware, software, plotters, digitizers, printers, and video cameras.
Provide consulting services in fields such as resource development and management, business location and market area analysis, environmental hazards, regional cultural history, and urban social planning.
Teach geography.
Provide geographical information systems support to the private and public sectors.
Study the economic, political, and cultural characteristics of a specific region's population.
Locate and obtain existing geographic information databases.
Conduct field work at outdoor sites.
Collect data on physical characteristics of specified areas, such as geological formations, climates, and vegetation, using surveying or meteorological equipment.
Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.