Government agencies hire cartographers in areas such as highway departments, land management, natural resources planning, and national defense. Most cartographers work with engineering, architectural, and surveying firms, but a substantial number work for federal, regional, state, and local governments. Depending upon the particular job, specialized courses such as surveying, cartography, and photogrammetry may be needed.Īccording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of a Cartographer in 2018 was $64,430. Employers look for applicants who have two to four years of formal education in mathematics, trigonometry, geography, geology, drafting, or related fields. There are several routes into cartographic occupations. Determine guidelines that specify which source material is acceptable for use.Identify, scale, and orient geodetic points, elevations, and other planimetric or topographic features, applying standard mathematical formulas.Examine and analyze data from ground surveys, reports, aerial photographs, and satellite images to prepare topographic maps, aerial-photograph mosaics, and related charts.Delineate aerial photographic detail such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features using precision stereo plotting apparatus or drafting instruments.Prepare and alter trace maps, charts, tables, detailed drawings, and three-dimensional optical models of terrain using stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment.Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps.Revise existing maps and charts, making all necessary corrections and adjustments.Inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.

Determine map content and layout, as well as production specifications such as scale, size, projection, and colors, and direct production to ensure that specifications are followed.

Photogrammetrist, Cartographer, Photogrammetric Technician, Compiler, Production Manager, Stereo Compiler, GIS Analyst (Geographic Information Systems Analyst), Stereoplotter Operator, Digital Cartographer, Geographic Information Systems Specialist (GIS Specialist)Ĭartographers may specialize in topographical maps (which show earth surface features and land use) or maps used for operational purposes in fields such as town planning, weather forecasting, tourism, hydrography, geological or mineral exploration and the military. Cartographers design, prepare and revise maps, charts, plans, three-dimensional models and spatial information databases, often using computer-based techniques, and applying principles from science, mathematics and graphic design.

List of women mapmakers cartographica