Global Certificate in Urban Food System Mapping and Analysis

The Global Certificate in Urban Food System Mapping and Analysis prepares students for a range of rewarding career paths. These roles often require a unique blend of skills in urban planning, geographic information systems (GIS), data analysis, and food policy. Here are some of the top jobs in this field, along with their typical responsibilities and job market trends. 1. **Urban Planner**: Urban planners work to create sustainable and equitable communities by shaping the built environment. In the context of urban food systems, they might focus on issues like food access, food waste reduction, and urban agriculture. Job market trends: According to the UK Government's Institute for Employment Research, the number of urban planners in the UK is expected to grow by 5.5% between 2020 and 2030. 2. **GIS Specialist**: GIS specialists use geospatial technology to analyze and visualize data related to urban food systems. They might work on projects like mapping food deserts, tracking urban agriculture, or analyzing the environmental impacts of different food production methods. Salary ranges: According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a GIS specialist in the UK is around £30,000 per year. 3. **Food Policy Analyst**: Food policy analysts study the various factors that influence food systems, from agricultural practices to public health initiatives. They might work for government agencies, non-profits, or private companies, and their duties could include researching policy options, developing recommendations, and engaging with stakeholders. Skill demand: According to Burning Glass Technologies, job postings for food policy analysts in the UK have increased by 26% over the past five years. 4. **Data Scientist**: Data scientists use statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to extract insights from large datasets. In the context of urban food systems, they might analyze data on food production, distribution, and consumption to inform policy decisions or develop new products and services. Job market trends: According to the UK Government's Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, the number of data scientist jobs in the UK is expected to grow by 16% between 2020 and 2030. 5. **Sustainability Consultant**: Sustainability consultants help organizations reduce their environmental impact and improve their social responsibility. In the context of urban food systems, they might work on projects like reducing food waste, promoting local food systems, or improving energy efficiency in food production and distribution. Salary ranges: According to Payscale, the average salary for a sustainability consultant in the UK is around £33,000 per year.