You will collect geospatial data using imagery and Global Positioning System devices and survey equipment; you will store, process, present, disseminate and manage this data, and provide geomatics support to the Army, the Navy and the Air Force.

Geomatics Technicians (GEO TECHs) are members of the Military Engineering Branch of the Canadian Forces who capture, synthesize, store, process, present, disseminate and manage geospatial information. Their primary role is to provide geomatics support to the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. Geomatics is the measurement, management, presentation and analysis of geospatial data, using cutting-edge technology.

A GEO TECH has the following primary duties:

• Collect geospatial data using imagery (from satellite, aerial and hand-held cameras), Global Positioning System devices and survey equipment;
• Manage and fuse digital geospatial data and products from a wide range of sources;
• Produce digital and hard-copy maps, charts, three-dimensional visualizations and other geospatial products to help commanders and their staff understand and move in the battle space;
• Generate and reproduce digital geospatial products;
• Distribute geospatial products from the Canadian Forces Map Depot to units in garrison and on operations; and
• Provide expert geomatics advice and liaison to Canadian Forces personnel at all levels of command.

Applicants to the GEO TECH occupation will have ideally completed their secondary schooling and must have achieved a minimum 75% average in a grade 12 (Sec V) College Predatory Math course (grade 11, Sec IV, math may be looked at). Course content for the College Preparatory Math must include the theory and application of statistics, algebra, trigonometry, vectors, geometry, rational numbers, exponential numbers, solving equations and problems.

GEO TECHs must be independent problem-solvers with stereovision acuity, a strong orientation to technology and above-average mathematics skills. They must be confident, competent computer users, and capable of performing repetitive tasks while working to precise standards and tolerances. Finally, they must be comfortable working either alone or as team members, and be eligible for high security clearance.

GEO TECHs are primarily employed at the MCE; however, they are embedded in every major headquarters across Canada. Opportunities exist for international postings, including an exchange with the United States Army. The operational tempo is high, so GEO TECHs can expect to deploy.

Upon completion of Basic MOC Training, the GEO TECHs’ career progression normally involves:

• The first tour of duty working at MCE providing geomatics support through the production of geospatial information and participation on field surveys, exercises, and operations.
• Subsequent tours of duty as a geospatial analyst deployed to the various units or headquarters as well as at the MCE.

In Canada, GEO TECHs are employed at the following units:

• Mapping and Charting Establishment, Ottawa, Ontario.
• National Defence Headquarters, Ottawa, Ontario.
• Canadian Forces Joint Information and Intelligence Fusion Capability Detachment, CFS Leitrim, Ottawa, Ontario.
• Canadian Forces Joint Imagery Centre, Ottawa, Ontario.
• Canadian Forces Joint Operations Group, Kingston, Ontario.
• 1st Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters, Edmonton, Alberta.
• 2nd Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters, Petawawa, Ontario.
• 4th Engineer Support Regiment, Gagetown, New Brunswick.
• 5e Groupe-brigade mécanisé du Canada, Valcartier, Québec.
• 1st Canadian Air Division Headquarters, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
• Maritime Atlantic Headquarters, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Personnel who demonstrate the required ability, desire and ambition may be selected to undertake advanced military occupation training through formal courses or apprentice training as they progress in their careers. Specialty training is also available for selected personnel based on suitability for employment in the following disciplines:

• Geodetic survey training
• Geospatial database management
• Advanced geomatics applications
• Advanced terrain analysis
• Geomatics engineering diploma

GEO TECHs work in all three Environmental Commands (Army, Navy and Air), and support all Canadian Forces’ exercises and operations. Most work at a base or station is done in an office environment, using high-tech computer workstations and software designed for geomatics. GEO TECHs are also employed aboard ships, on survey duties, and in Army units that train in the field and deploy on operations.

Normal levels of mental stress are encountered when employed at a static unit, but stress increases considerably when on exercise or deployed on operations.

Appropriate training, environmental clothing and equipment are provided, and GEO TECHs’ health, safety and morale are closely monitored.