Geomatics technician (Geomatiker/in)
You turn geographic data into maps, plans and 3D models: a paid 3-year training for an office-based career where fieldwork and computing meet.
What a geomatics technician does
They gather geographic data, either by carrying out surveys themselves or by reusing existing information, then process it with software to produce maps and models.
Collect
Carry out surveys or reuse existing geographic information to obtain reliable data.
Process
Clean, link and analyse the data with specialist software to create maps and graphics.
Present
Produce 3D representations and multimedia applications, then advise the client on the conclusions to draw.
This occupation is for you if…
- you like working on a computer with maps and data
- you have a sense of space and like reading plans
- you are careful when checking and cross-referencing data
- you like alternating between the office and, sometimes, fieldwork measurements
Less suitable if…
- you cope badly with sitting in front of a screen for long periods
- you are looking for an almost entirely physical job
- you dislike working with data and software
A typical day in the workshop
What you will learn, what is expected of you
Technical skills
Geographic information systemsGeodata processingCartography3D modellingDatabasesFieldwork surveysPersonal qualities
PrecisionSpatial senseLogicAnalytical mindIndependenceHow the Ausbildung works
In Germany you learn by working: this is the “dual system”. You are an employee of a company and a student at a vocational school (Berufsschule) at the same time.
The basics
- Geoinformation basics
- Data collection
- Intermediate exam
Technique
- Processing and visualisation
- Databases and GIS
- Maps, plans and models
Independence
- Analysing and linking data
- Geodata management
- Final exam
Exams and qualification
An intermediate exam (Zwischenprüfung) takes place at the start of the second year and covers the first year. The final exam (Abschlussprüfung) has five areas, of which geodata processes count for 40 per cent. You obtain the final training certificate, issued by the Chamber of Commerce (IHK) or, in the public sector, by the competent body.
You are paid during the training
Gross monthly pay during the training. These amounts are averages: they vary by region, sector and collective agreement.
What you need to apply
Education level
German level
Physical fitness
Documents to prepare
- CV and cover letter in German
- Translated baccalaureate diplomas and transcripts
- German B2 level certificate
Advantages and difficulties
Advantages
- Paid from the first year
- Office-based trade with few physical demands
- Digital field that uses maps and data
- Route to technician or further study
Difficulties
- A lot of screen work
- Great rigour needed to check data
- Employers in fairly specialised sectors
- Pay varies between the public and private sectors
Where it can lead
Skilled geomatics technician
Jobs in a land-registry authority or in a company that uses geographic information systems.
Further training
Deepen your skills in earth sciences or surveying technology through short training courses.
Technician or degree
Become a surveying technician (Techniker), study or offer geodata visualisation services as a freelancer.
Other trainings: Building and construction
Not quite convinced by this occupation? Here are related trainings in the same field.
We are by your side from day one until you arrive in Germany
Four steps to move forward, all run by our own structures.
Take the test online or at the office
The eligibility test is done online on our website, or by visiting our Douala office directly.
Take the testTalk to our team
Germany: +49 (0) 7033 694 18 80
Cameroon: +237 622 20 81 64
DZK, our language centre
Deutschzentrum KAGEDEV (DZK) is our own language centre in Douala. Outside Douala: partner language centres, call us to find the nearest one.
AZUFA is always us
AZUFA is our platform: it connects you with German companies that recruit apprentices and follows your application through to the training contract.
Go to AZUFAFrom German A1 to the first day of training in Germany
Each step is run by one of our structures. You keep the same contact from start to finish.
- 1
Check my eligibility
The test is done online on our website or at our Douala office.
Run by Campus Germany
- 2
Talk to an advisor
Review your profile, your wishes and the chosen occupation.
- 3
Learn German, from A1 to B2
Courses adapted to your starting level, up to the required B2 level. In Douala at our own language centre; elsewhere, with our partner centres.
Run by DZK
- 4
Prepare the application file
CV and cover letter in German, translated baccalaureate diplomas and transcripts, B2 level certificate.
- 5
Find the company and sign the training contract
We connect you with German companies that recruit apprentices, and follow your application through to the contract.
Run by AZUFA
- 6
Prepare the visa and paperwork
Support to gather the documents and complete the administrative steps.
- 7
Prepare your departure and settling in
Travel, housing and first steps in Germany: we prepare you before you leave.
Run by KAGEDEV e.V.
- 8
First day of training in Germany
You arrive prepared and supported, with a team that has known you since day one.
Stay informed
Join our channels to receive new offers, session dates and advice. These are announcement channels: no private conversations.
Our structures for this occupation
Our platform for recruiting apprentices and skilled staff from Africa: matching with German companies through to the training contract.
Our own German language centre, in Douala. Outside Douala: partner centres.
Training offers for this occupation
No offer is open here at the moment. Browse apprenticeship offers on AZUFA, or receive an e-mail as soon as a partner company recruits.
See offers on AZUFA →Take this sheet with you
A 5-page document to read offline or show your family: the occupation, the training, the pay and the whole pathway, from German A1 to the first day of training.
Download the brochure (PDF)You may be wondering…
What German level is required?
How long does the training last?
Am I paid during the training?
Where can I take the eligibility test?
Where can I learn German?
How much do you earn in the private sector?
How does it differ from a surveying technician?
Ready to find out whether this occupation is for you?
Take the test online or come and see us at the office. We are by your side from day one until you arrive in Germany.