Geospatial Project Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital mapping and location intelligence, the role of geospatial project managers has never been more critical.

As technology continues its relentless advance, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, develop, and safeguard our geospatial data is increasing exponentially.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a geospatial project manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the true nature of this role,
• A hiring manager attempting to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of geospatial project management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable geospatial project manager job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Geospatial Project Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Geospatial Project Managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of geospatial projects while ensuring they are completed within the budget and on schedule.

They are also responsible for coordinating the team, managing risks and communicating with stakeholders.

A Geospatial Project Manager’s duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and defining the scope of the geospatial project
• Developing detailed work plans, including project schedules and budgets
• Assigning tasks and responsibilities to team members and monitoring their progress
• Coordinating and overseeing the work of the project team, including GIS analysts, geospatial data specialists, and others
• Managing the quality of geospatial data and ensuring its accuracy and reliability
• Interpreting geospatial data and communicating the findings to stakeholders
• Utilizing GIS software and tools to create maps and other visual representations of geospatial data
• Managing relationships with clients, stakeholders, and vendors
• Identifying, assessing and managing project risks
• Ensuring that the project is delivered on time and within budget
• Providing regular updates on the project’s status to stakeholders and making necessary adjustments to the project plan as needed

 

Geospatial Project Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated Geospatial Project Manager to oversee geospatial projects from conception to completion.

Your responsibilities will include planning and coordinating geospatial projects, managing team resources, and ensuring that project objectives are met on time and within budget.

The successful candidate should have a strong understanding of geographic information system (GIS) technologies, as well as project management experience in a related field.

Your ultimate goal will be to ensure that geospatial projects are delivered efficiently and yield the desired results.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage geospatial projects from beginning to end, including planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closure
• Coordinate internal resources and third parties/vendors for the flawless execution of projects
• Ensure that projects are delivered on-time, within scope and within budget
• Develop project scopes and objectives, involving all relevant stakeholders
• Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation
• Measure project performance using appropriate systems, tools and techniques
• Manage the relationship with the client and all stakeholders
• Perform risk management to minimize project risks
• Establish and maintain relationships with third parties/vendors
• Provide project updates on a consistent basis to various stakeholders about strategy, adjustments, and progress

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Geospatial Project Manager or similar role
• Experience with geospatial and GIS technologies
• Excellent knowledge of project management methodologies and tools
• Strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in project management software tools
• Ability to work on tight deadlines
• BSc degree in Geospatial Science, Geography, or relevant field
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Geospatial Project Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Geospatial Project Manager or Geospatial Program Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $135,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Geospatial Project Manager Do?

Geospatial Project Managers are responsible for overseeing and managing geospatial data projects.

These may include geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, cartography, spatial analysis, and other related areas.

They coordinate teams of GIS analysts, data scientists, geographers, and other professionals.

They are involved in the planning, execution, and completion of projects, and ensure that they are completed on time and within budget.

Geospatial Project Managers are also responsible for communicating project progress and results to stakeholders, including clients, team members, and upper management.

They also ensure that the project adheres to industry standards and best practices.

In addition to project management tasks, they may also be involved in the acquisition, analysis, and interpretation of geospatial data.

They may use specialized software to visualize, manipulate, and analyze data.

Geospatial Project Managers play a crucial role in decision-making processes, as the data they manage can be used to inform policy, business strategies, environmental conservation efforts, and more.

Therefore, they need to have a solid understanding of the field in which they are working, as well as strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

 

Geospatial Project Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Geospatial Project Manager should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the responsibilities of managing geospatial projects, including:

• Technical knowledge and understanding of Geographic Information System (GIS), remote sensing, cartography, and other geospatial technologies.
• Strong project management skills to oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of geospatial projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues related to data collection, data analysis, and map production.
• Outstanding communication skills to effectively explain complex geospatial concepts to team members, stakeholders, and clients, and to provide clear instructions to the project team.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team of Geospatial Analysts, Cartographers, GIS Technicians, and other geospatial professionals.
• Attention to detail and analytical skills for accurate geospatial data interpretation and precise map production.
• Understanding and adherence to geospatial standards and data management principles.
• Experience with geospatial software applications such as ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, or other relevant tools.

 

Geospatial Project Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for the role of a Geospatial Project Manager may have 1 to 2 years of experience in related fields like Geography, Cartography, Surveying, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), or Remote Sensing.

Experience can be gained through internships or part-time roles in these areas.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of geospatial technology, project management principles, and have familiarity with geospatial data and software such as ArcGIS, QGIS or other spatial analysis tools.

They may have previously worked in positions such as Geospatial Analyst, GIS Technician, Surveyor, or Cartographer.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are typically expected to have a solid foundation in managing complex geospatial projects.

They might have previously held positions like Geospatial Analyst Lead or Senior GIS Consultant.

These professionals often have developed critical skills such as team leadership, strategic planning, budgeting, and client relationship management.

Furthermore, advanced roles may require expertise in specialized areas such as geospatial intelligence, environmental management, urban planning, or data analysis, depending on the industry and the nature of the projects managed.

In addition to work experience, professional certifications like the Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified GIS Professional (GISP) can enhance a candidate’s qualifications.

 

Geospatial Project Manager Education and Training Requirements

Geospatial Project Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in geography, geoinformatics, environmental science, or a related field.

They need to have a strong understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and cartography.

Additionally, proficiency in software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and AutoCAD is crucial for this role.

Some positions may require Geospatial Project Managers to have a master’s degree or a professional certification in geospatial intelligence, GIS, or project management.

Given the interdisciplinary nature of this role, possessing skills in data analysis, statistics, programming languages (like Python or R), and machine learning can provide an edge over other candidates.

A certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification can enhance a candidate’s credibility and demonstrate commitment to the field.

Experience in managing geospatial projects, as well as knowledge of relevant laws and regulations, is often necessary for these positions.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest advancements in geospatial technologies and project management methodologies are also important for career growth in this field.

 

Geospatial Project Manager Salary Expectations

A Geospatial Project Manager can expect an average salary of $80,000 (USD) per year.

This can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, specific skills, the size and industry of the employer, and the geographical location.

 

Geospatial Project Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Geospatial Project Manager need?

A Geospatial Project Manager needs a combination of technical and soft skills.

These include proficiency in geospatial software and technology, project management, leadership, strategic planning, and strong communication.

They should be able to understand and interpret geospatial data and be competent in time management and problem-solving.

 

What is the educational requirement for a Geospatial Project Manager?

A Geospatial Project Manager typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in Geography, Geoinformatics, or a related field.

However, a Master’s degree or any other higher qualification in a related field is often preferred.

Certification in project management like PMP or CAPM can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Geospatial Project Manager resume?

A Geospatial Project Manager’s resume should showcase their experience with geospatial software like GIS, remote sensing platforms, and database management systems.

It should also include their project management experiences, emphasizing their leadership skills, strategic planning, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Any certifications in project management or geospatial technologies can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Geospatial Project Manager?

A good Geospatial Project Manager is detail-oriented, has strong problem-solving skills, and has the ability to manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously.

They should have excellent communication skills to liaise with different stakeholders and a good understanding of geospatial technologies and trends.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Geospatial Project Manager?

Hiring a Geospatial Project Manager can be challenging due to the specific skill set required for the role.

It requires a unique blend of geospatial technology expertise and project management skills.

However, offering competitive salaries and opportunities for career development can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the multifaceted role of a geospatial project manager.

And you know what?

It’s not just about mapping data.

It’s about shaping our understanding of the world, one geographical layer at a time.

With our reliable geospatial project manager job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to spring into action.

But why just start there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone towards impeccably crafted job listings or finely tuned resumes.

Remember:

Every piece of geographical data contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s map out the future. Together.

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