Geographical information systems manager

Job description

A geographical information systems manager supervises teams of IT experts that produce geographical data using specialist computer systems. Geographical information systems (GIS) combine social, economic and topographical data that is used for a variety of purposes including flood defence planning, healthcare, road traffic management, market research etc.

Work activities

• Managing the development of GIS software packages.
• Supervising a team of programmers, cartographers, data managers, analysts and support specialists and training staff.
• Ensuring projects keep on track and deadlines are met.
• Managing budgets and project costs.
• Evaluating the functionality of systems.
• Dealing with queries and problems.
• Consulting with clients to determine project costs, needs, information required etc.

Entry requirements

A degree in any subject is acceptable for entry into the profession, however most entrants have relevant qualifications in subjects such as management sciences, cartography, surveying, geology, computer science/studies, town planning, geography, information technology or software/computer engineering.

Gaining a postgraduate GIS qualification is advantageous, particularly for graduates without relevant qualifications and/or experience. The University of Ulster provides a course in GIS which is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences. In the Republic of Ireland institutes such as NUI Maynooth and University College Cork offer postgraduate qualifications in GIS.