If you have an interest in understanding the climate, vegetation, and landforms of our complex world, and enjoy analyzing data to solve problems, then a career as a geographer might be the right fit for you. Geographers study the surface of the earth as the home of humankind, focusing on physical processes and landforms or studying people and communities and their interactions with the environment.

Geographer Duties and Responsibilities

Some of the duties of a geographer include evaluating and mapping the locations of people, services, or phenomena, conducting sustainability evaluations, providing advice on environmental issues, identifying retail site locations, preparing regional health service plans, studying the effects of pollutants and epidemics, and providing GIS support to the private and public sectors. They also work on site- and land-use planning, teach and conduct research on various geographical topics, and summarize complex data in reports.

Skills Required for Geographers

Geographers collect data using laboratory, statistical, interview, and field techniques. They utilize computers for data analysis, survey material, and remotely sensed imagery. Working conditions for geographers can vary, with some working in offices, labs, or classrooms, while others conduct field studies in different environments, such as Arctic tundra or rainforests. Fieldwork can take place both in Canada and abroad.

How to Excel as a Geographer

To excel as a geographer, you should possess strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as database management skills. You should be able to analyze and synthesize information effectively and have knowledge of geographical, environmental, and social issues. Geographers should enjoy finding innovative solutions, consulting with others, and taking a methodical approach to information gathering.

Education and Salary Information

In terms of education, a bachelor's degree in geography or a related field is typically required. The average salary for geographers is $44.68 per hour, and the demand for this profession is relatively low, with less than 1500 positions available per province.

If you're interested in pursuing a career as a geographer, it's essential to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. This includes being proficient in geographical information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and other information technologies.

Overall, a career as a geographer offers an opportunity to explore and understand the world around us while making a meaningful impact on issues such as climate change, urban development, and environmental sustainability.

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