Hi Everyone- advice needed

Question

I graduated with a B.S. in Geosciences in December 2024 and I’m currently pursuing a Master’s in Data Science and Analytics. I’m finding it challenging to land an entry-level GIS role because most positions require professional experience, and my background so far is primarily through academic projects.

Does anyone have advice on how I can strengthen my candidacy (e.g., portfolio ideas, certifications, or skills to focus on)? If you know of companies or organizations that hire early-career candidates or offer GIS internships, preferably in Central Florida, fI’d really appreciate any recommendations.

PiumiJayasundara · Answer

Hello,

I’m also a Master’s student in GIS and Remote Sensing, and I’ve been focusing on building a strong profile to land an internship. I have created a GIS-focused CV, showcasing academic and personal projects in a portfolio, and updating my skills with Python, R, SQL, and data analysis to be more versatile.

I’ve also found it helpful to keep LinkedIn and other reliable professional forums updated with projects and skills — it increases visibility and can attract internship or early-career opportunities. Combining GIS expertise with programming and analytics has boosted my confidence in applications, and I think this approach could be useful for others in a similar situation. Further, I am getting many job alerts through my LinkedIn profile on internships and junior analyzer positions specially in US. So, hope you will find this useful and wish you all the very best.

CarlosLuna · Answer

Hi there fellow floridian here. I am mostly computer science background but i have noticed GIS is kinda niche at least for the companies i've worked with (private sector) -- unfortunately they werent forward thinkers and did not expand their GIS other than 'place dot on map'

I have noticed that a lot of governmental organizations do have some sort of GIS team (try to look at jobs there) apply to them or contact the organization and ask if they have a GIS team. I would tell them you want a GIS internship and makes sure to ask them if there are any public maps available to view (you can get a gist of the type of work they are doing) -- search for county/city organizations and/or water utilities and start cold calling them.

JesseCloutier · Answer

Welcome to Esri Community, @TafrensheaSouth! I'm one of the Community Managers on this platform and I hope you'll let me know if I can help answer questions about how to use our online community. To build on what @49asvk had shared, you'll find that the Esri Young Professionals Network is a great resource. In addition to the web page provided, you'll find that they also have an active area here in Esri Community where you can connect directly with others on the topics you've brought up and make use of the many resources already added to the space: Esri Young Professionals Network. You may also want to keep one eye on our GIS Jobs User Group for opportunities that are a good match. All the best!