Looking for Career Advice and Help

Question

Hello!

So I'm looking to dive into a career for a position as a Wildlife ArcGIS Specialists. Thing is, I would like to know more about this position first, job possibilities and realistic opportunities. What jobs are mostly available when starting out? What will I need to succeed? Is it possible to job shadow? Volunteer opportunities? I have a strong passion for wildlife studies and when I was in school I held most of my studies in this direction. I'm looking to focus and dive down into my career now. I am 33 yo and live in SoCal area. Was planning on chatting with college career counselors but also wanted to ask the reddit community to see what others think. I only have an Associate of Science at this point. I know I have work ahead of me but willing to do what I can to find a fulfilling career.

Thanks ahead of time for your knowledge, advice, help and time.

BarryNorthey · Answer

I did a quick Internet search for Wildlife ArcGIS Specialist and got this in return: https://www.indeed.com/q-GIS-Specialist-For-Wildlife-jobs.html?vjk=c485b82b78cf00d0

Employers advertising at this level are usually looking for several years of experience so the challenge is how to get that.  It’s not always what you know but who you know that opens the door.  A second Internet search turned up these folks: https://wildlife.org/ I have no idea who they are, but they probably have no idea who you are and what you and GIS can do for them. It sometimes takes a chance encounter. I met Roger Tomlinson (the father of GIS) in the 80’s and caught the GIS bug and there was no cure but it took many years and persistence to make a career out of it. I also started out in my early 30’s. The ability to customize (write code) is essential although AI might become a competitor.

GaryMorris2 · Answer

Hi @spok00,

I don't know about that specific enclave of GIS but I think I can offer a few tips to help.

-I would continue your education, obtain a Bachelor's degree in Geography or related field and maybe a GIS Certificate.

-I would get my foot in the door of the GIS community to gain professional experience if you cannot find a job in the specific field.  I say this because the skills and knowledge are transferable in a lot of cases.  Experience in the specific field is better but experience in general is much better than not having any.

-Seek out the volunteer opportunities and anything that you can put on your resume, specifically in the field.  Call and or email places close to you and work your way further out.

Good luck and let us know how it is going!