Geomaticians - a geomatics profile

If we ever go to Mars, do you know who's going to be responsible for making the map? Geomatics specialists! These are the experts who keep our maps up to date and help create blueprints and even 3D models of planets.

Geomaticians - a geomatics profile

If we ever go to Mars, do you know who will be responsible for making the map? A geomatician! Geomaticians are the professionals who keep our maps up to date and help create blueprints and even 3D models of planets. 

Geomaticians specialize in the discipline of geomatics, which, simply put, helps us collect geographic data and make sense of it. Geomatics professionals use a variety of processes and tools not only to collect, but also store, analyse, present, and distribute data. This data is then used to provide a range of services such as:

  • Construction
  • Urban Planning
  • Land Management
  • Navigation Systems
  • Research
  • Environmental Modelling
  • Resource Extraction
  • Public Health
  • Military
  • Telecommunications

and much more.

With the development of technology, more and more geospatial data is becoming available and new ways of using it are emerging. This has naturally increased the need for geomatics professionals in the market.

Do you find maps interesting and think you might have a knack for it, but don't know where to start? Fear not, GoGeoGo brings you everything you need to know about geomatics so that you can feel more empowered and find a geomatics job that suits you best. Let's get started!

Table of contents:

What is geomatics?

Geomatics is the collection, storage, processing, analysis, and presentation of geospatial data. Because of this broad definition, people mistakenly assume that geomatics encompasses everything under the sun that has to do with geospatial data. However, it is primarily about the collection, management and presentation of data.

It involves a mix of cartography, surveying, data handling, the use of global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou), and even animation!

Fernmeldetürme bei Sonnenuntergang
Collecting relevant data often requires geomatics knowledge

What does a geomatician do?

Geomaticians are trained to collect and maintain geospatial data, use that data to create multimedia geo-related products such as a 3D model, and everything in between! Given this broad training, geomatics professionals may have a range of responsibilities, including

  • surveying areas, 
  • processing raw data, 
  • recording and maintaining geospatial data, 
  • and interpreting this information to create maps and other presentations of geospatial data.

Geomaticians work extensively with geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing data. Some even work directly with clients to create customized geo-related products in both the public and private sectors.

Geomatics vs. geoinformatics

Geomatics is often confused with other geodata-related fields. One of the most common fields is geoinformatics

Geoinformatics is the technology and science used to develop the information infrastructure needed to solve problems in other fields of science and engineering that rely on geospatial data. Simply put, geoinformatics is a discipline that facilitates scientific inquiry into complex challenges in our society, economy, or environment (or a combination of these). 

Geomatics, on the other hand, is the collection and processing of geospatial data to make it presentable for other applications such as construction or environmental modeling. Thus, geomatics and geoinformatics are two similar but drastically different fields that operate in different domains. 

However, the two fields are closely related, as evidenced by job titles that are sometimes used interchangeably and programs of study that focus on one but include the other.

Sechs USAF Thunderbirds fliegen vorbei
The military sector is increasingly relying on geodata

Geomatics jobs

Because of the widespread use of maps and other location data, geomatics professionals are often employed in a variety of fields, including construction, engineering, architecture, navigation systems, land registry, IT, and more.

As a result, geomatics jobs vary widely. Some focus only on the collection and management of geospatial data, while others may involve the creation of geo-related products such as maps, plans, and other multimedia products for clients, to name a few.

Here are some of the most popular jobs that a geomatics education can lead to:

Geomatician/Geomatics Specialist

Geomatics specialists collect and maintain geospatial data. They must ensure its completeness and accuracy and use it to create presentations for clients based on their needs. In essence, geomatics professionals are responsible for everything related to geospatial data-from collecting it to transforming it into customer-friendly products.

Surveyor

Surveyors (e.g. surveying engineers) use specialized equipment to measure and record geospatial data on land, underwater, etc. Because the work is primarily data collection, surveyors often travel extensively. Given the scope of their work, they also regularly use GPS and remote sensing data to collect and record data.

Project Manager GIS

A GIS project manager is responsible for planning, executing, and monitoring the progress of GIS projects. They also handle customization of GIS systems and data migration. GIS project managers often work with stakeholders and specialists in other fields.

Studying geomatics

If you are interested in a career in geomatics, there are several ways to get started. You can start with a university degree in geomatics/ geoinformatics or a related field, or you can start an apprenticeship right after school if that's your preferred route.

Most technical universities in Germany offer geomatics courses at the bachelor's and master's level. Some offer specialized programs in geomatics for specific sectors, such as mineral resource management and geomatics engineering, while others focus solely on geomatics.

It is also possible to specialize in geomatics at the master's level after completing a bachelor's degree in fields such as geoinformatics and geospatial engineering, and in not directly related but technical fields such as mathematics, computer science, etc. Finally, you can also study geomatics as a minor or specialization while studying these related fields.

If you are at the studying stage of interest, we suggest that you also head over to our list of geoinformatics bachelor’s and master’s programmesto select the program that suits you best.

Geomatics apprenticeship

One of the most popular ways to enter the field of geomatics is through an apprenticeship. This is a three-year program that combines classroom and on-the-job training. Trainees are taught practical skills that they then apply in a real working environment, making it a very rewarding experience.

The training is designed to teach trainees how to collect and manage geospatial data, use geographic information systems (GIS), interpret and integrate remote sensing data, and use geospatial data to create maps, plans, and other multidimensional geo-related products.

Skills taught include cartography, surveying, modeling, data management, and more. Apprentices also receive a monthly stipend during their training.

The training is best suited for those who have a strong background in geography and maths, as well as spatial thinking skills. Most training programs require a high school diploma, and some even require a driver's license, as there may be extensive travel during the program.

Further education for geomaticians 

After successfully completing an apprenticeship, geomaticians have a variety of options to choose from. You can start working as a geomatics technician immediately, enroll in further training or degree programs, or specialize. All of these can provide a significant boost to a career in geomatics.

You can pursue additional training that will keep you up to date with the evolving discipline of geomatics. You can also pursue postgraduate education to obtain a higher degree. The purpose of this additional training is generally to upgrade your skills or transition to a new career, with some flexibility depending on your personal needs.

For example, you can make yourself more attractive in the job market by enrolling in a survey technician training program or geological technology training program. Specializing in areas such as surveying, geological investigation, geoproducts for construction and resource extraction, and others have ample evidence of opening doors to lucrative career opportunities.

Menschen auf dem Zebrastreifen am Santa Monica Boulevard
Geomatics is a crucial discipline for many aspects of modern urban planning

Geomatics salary

Because of the wide range of skills geomatics provides, salaries vary by region, industry, and job type.

In the public sector, geomatics professionals can work in surveying agencies, land registries, and geospatial information departments. In the private sector, they can work with companies that provide geospatial information and related products, remote sensing companies, and map publishers.

Geomatician salary

Geomatics salaries generally range from 25,000 € on the low end to 56,000 € on the high end, depending on education and experience. A graduate degree in geomatics opens the door to more and better-paying job opportunities.

Entry

Experienced

Senior

Lower end

25,000.00 €

34,200.00 €

42,000.00 €

Average

31,500.00 €

39,500.00 €

47,500.00 €

Upper end

43,700.00 €

49,800.00 €

56,000.00 €

Geomatics Salary in the Public Sector

Geomaticians are paid according to the collective agreement for public service in the government sector. Thus, depending on the job, the pay scale may vary.

Entry

Experienced

Senior

Lower end

27,600.00 €

30,600.00 €

33,600.00 €

Average

29,600.00 €

33,600.00 €

37,500.00 €

Upper end

31,200.00 €

38,700.00 €

46,800.00 €

Summary geomatics

Geomatics teaches you everything about geospatial data - from collecting and managing it to using it to create creative products for end users. The entry requirements for a career in geomatics are minimal, and there are several university programs and apprenticeships that can get you started!

Geomatics professionals are sought after by a wide variety of industries, including construction, geospatial information systems, mapping agencies, and more!

Head over to GoGeoGo now to find the right geomatics jobs for you.

FAQs

What skills do I need to become a geomatician?

Geomatics professionals work with large amounts of data and must find creative ways to collect and present it. Therefore, data handling skills and the ability to visualize data are necessary for a career in geomatics. A strong background in math, geography, and creative thinking is also very helpful in geomatics.

What courses can I take to start my geomatics career?

Those wishing to become geomaticians can start by studying for a bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in geomatics at a university. Studying other related fields such as geoinformatics, geography and geodesy at the same level is another good entry point. This can be followed by a Master's degree (M.Sc.) in geomatics or other specialized geomatics courses. Alternatively, vocational training can be pursued through apprenticeships.

Who hires geomatics professionals?

Geomatics professionals are employed by a variety of public and private organizations, including land surveying firms, map publishers, civil engineering and construction companies, geospatial information providers, and environmental management agencies.

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