GIS Finding Entry Level Positions - Analyst or Tech

2707
1
06-25-2012 05:05 AM
ChrisF1
New Contributor
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
Tags (2)
0 Kudos
1 Reply
RobertBorchert
Frequent Contributor III
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.
0 Kudos