GIS Finding Entry Level Positions - Analyst or Tech

ChrisF1 — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 12:05:15 GMT

I graduated with a degree in geography/gis in late 2009. I was able to find a job immediately upon graduating working for a land developer as a GIS analyst, and worked there for awhile before the company had financial issues and I was laid off. Currently I am in real estate, but would like to get back into GIS. Any general tips on locating entry level positions, or perhaps networking to find "hidden" jobs?

Brief overview

<1 year professional experience as a GIS analyst

Use of model builder to automate and document map analysis

Access and Excel queries / ArcGIS spatial queries

Fluent in geoprocessing and toolboxes

At the moment, I am working on creating an online portfolio that showcases some projects I have done. I am also learning Arcpy and the python programming language as it seems to be becoming the norm in analyst positions. I am picking it up fairly quickly and should have a working knowledge of it soon.

It has been difficult finding jobs posted at the moment, which is why I am considering messaging people at companies I would like to work for to see if they have any entry level positions and or internships, could throw my website in a link in the message etc. I am utilizing my schools department of GIS/Geography as well, but not much as come from that for finding positions. I would appreciate any tips to help get back into the industry as a intern/GIS analyst/ GIS tech

I am located in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area.

Thanks everyone

Re: GIS Finding Entry Level Positions - Analyst or Tech

RobertBorchert — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 19:04:03 GMT

Depends on how willing you are to relocate.

First. Let a lot of people who you know that you are looking. I actually got my current job because a co-worker of my wife knew I was looking as saw a little 1/2" wide notice in the news paper. Don't limit what you apply for to your years of experience. You have a good reason for having lost your job so HR should not be an issue.

Second: don't be afraid of trying for a position in something you don't know about. When I was in school just about everyone wanted a job in DNR, environment etc... I got a job working in E911 and now I work in electric transmission and distribution. I knew nothing about them when I started.

Use the major job search engines.

www.monster.com Currently they are showing jobs in Plano & Dallas
http://staff.washington.edu/rroth/gisweb.htm this is a General GIS job site. The clearing house link is currently showing jobs in Houston and Midland. (not a commuting distance)
www.usajobs.gov
www.careerbuilder.com

Check your local county and city web sites
Texas should have a state web site
Your local newpaper may have an online job section.

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GIS Finding Entry Level Positions - Analyst or Tech

Re: GIS Finding Entry Level Positions - Analyst or Tech