Geographic Information Systems Mapping Technician (GIS Mapping Technician)
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and TechniciansDescription
Create and maintain digital maps and GIS layers to support planning, operations, and reporting. Build, update, and quality-check GIS databases; perform spatial analysis and cartographic design; and provide user support for map products and basic GIS tools. May develop map templates or simple scripts to automate mapping workflows.
- • Produce maps, map series, data layers, tables, or reports using GIS and spatial analysis.
- • Design cartographic layouts, symbology, and graphics for print and web maps.
- • Maintain and update GIS databases and map layers, ensuring data integrity.
- • Provide technical support on GIS mapping tools, data, and workflows.
- • Develop and maintain map templates, styles, and simple automation scripts.
- • Enter and edit spatial data via coordinate geometry, digitizing, scanning, geocoding, or GPS imports.
- • QA/QC incoming and existing data for accuracy, completeness, and metadata standards.
- • Build and analyze geospatial datasets to support mapping and decision-making.
- • Organize layer schemas and map standards for integrated spatial and non-spatial data.
- • Perform GIS analyses to address operational and planning map requests.
- • Select and place cartographic elements for clear communication.
- • Publish and manage web maps and map services for user access.
- • Compile and integrate data from remote sensing, surveys, and cartographic sources.
- • Interpret aerial and orthoimagery to update features and validate maps.
- • Meet with stakeholders to capture requirements and resolve mapping issues.
- • Document, test, and version map projects, models, and data sources.
- • Create, convert, and transfer spatial data using GIS and ETL tools.
- • Configure and troubleshoot map documents, projections, labeling, and data links.
- • Build or update geocoding and network datasets to support mapping tasks.
- • Recommend data, symbology, or software enhancements to improve maps and access.
- • Help users define map and data requirements and evaluate alternatives.
- • Produce thematic, heat, and time-enabled maps; generate basic 3D views when needed.
- • Georeference and rescale source documents and imagery to standard coordinate systems.
- • Prepare training materials and deliver sessions on map use and basic GIS functions.
- • Research basemaps, projections, and data standards; support GPS/GNSS mapping tools.
- • Stay current with GIS and cartography practices through training and professional activities.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
