Geographer

Description: A Geographer will use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Cartography to plot data relative to a physical location, and then develop a map or visual representation of the data, which can help people solve problems and make decisions.

Knowledge Required: Geography, cartography, environmental science, topographical surveying, statistics, mathematics

Skills: Strong math, statistics and computer skills are needed to analyze and work with data. Oral and written communication skills are important to communicate complex sets of data to policy makers. An eye for design will help in map-making.

Career Path: Bachelor's or Master's in Environmental Health Science, Public Health, GIS, Cartography, Geography, Urban Planning, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Best Cities for this job: All city governments utilize GIS and cartography for health planning purposes, as well as numerous large companies and private developers in California's urban areas.

Median Annual Income: National: $62,990 CA: $68,050

Future Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts excellent growth opportunities in this field due to an increasing demand for fast, accurate, and complete geographic information.

From the field: "I think it's really fulfilling to be involved in the process that improves the health of the built environment, which impacts all of us." - Wesley C., SF City and County Department of Public Health

Did you know? As a geographer, you can find a career in virtually any industry that utilizes GIS technology.