Synonyms: Cartographer, Mapper, Map Designer, Photogrammetrist, Photogrammetric Technician

Table of Contents

• Quick Facts
• Day in the Life
• Common Characteristics
• How to Become a Cartographer
• Specialties and Similar Career Paths
• Advice from John 

Quick Facts

What cartographers do:

Cartographers utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect, analyze, and interpret geographic data for various purposes, including legal, social, and educational applications. Their work combines in-office and remote settings, occasionally requiring travel.

Median income:

$76,210 annually or $36.64 per hour.

Lifestyle:

Cartographers typically work full-time in offices but also enjoy the option to work remotely from home. They may travel occasionally for fieldwork, data verification, or professional conferences, and have flexibility in employment types, including freelance, contract, or full-time positions.

Education requirements:

A bachelor’s degree is typically required to become a cartographer.

Job outlook:

The future for cartographers is bright, with the occupation projected to grow much faster than average, at a rate of 5% from 2022 to 2032. 

This is perfect for you if:

• You have an investigative personality and are naturally curious
• You enjoy working with technology and design
• You have a passion for exploring new places and acquiring geographic knowledge
• You love problem-solving, and you are attentive to detail

If that sounds like you, definitely watch our interview with John Nelson to learn more about being a cartographer here!

Day in the Life

Schedule:

Typically involving a 9-5 schedule on weekdays, with potential overtime during fieldwork or project deadlines. Remote work options offer flexibility to balance work and personal commitments more effectively.

Setting:

Cartographers work primarily in offices but also in the field to gather data. With remote capabilities enabled by Geographic Information Systems (GIS), they can work from home or other locations.

Tasks:

Cartographers collect and analyze geographic data, update maps, and create user interfaces for mapping applications. They conduct fieldwork to gather first-hand data, experiment with visualization techniques, and use precision equipment and computer graphics tools for map production and terrain modeling.

Topics:

Mathematics, science, geography, engineering, technology, and the arts, focusing on data analysis, map creation techniques, geographical principles, and advancements in mapping technology.

Skills:

Strong reading comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to interpret and analyze geographic data. Additionally, effective communication, computer proficiency, and attention to detail are crucial for creating accurate maps and conveying technical information.

Tools:

Graphics or photo imaging software like Adobe Creative Cloud and Adobe Illustrator, as well as presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint. Additionally, they work with specialized mapping software and precision analytical aero triangulation software to create and analyze maps accurately.

Common Characteristics

Natural Talents (strengths):

Cartographers have strong comprehension skills, enabling them to understand and communicate complex information. They excel in reasoning and data analysis and have sharp visual skills to interpret map details and patterns.

Interests:

Organizing information, conducting research, geography, technology, design, exploration, data analysis, problem-solving, and engaging in hands-on activities related to map design and creation.

Personality:

Cartographers typically have conventional, investigative, and realistic personality traits, meaning they are interested in organizing information, conducting research, and engaging in hands-on activities related to map design and creation.

Values:

Achievement, independence, job security, and autonomous decision making.

*Terms used to describe interests and personality are based on the Holland Framework

How to Become a Cartographer

Education requirements:

A bachelor’s degree, particularly in geography with a focus on geographic information systems (GIS), is typically necessary. He emphasized that individuals from diverse academic backgrounds, such as anthropology or architecture, can enter the field. 

Preferred majors:

Preferred majors for a career as a cartographer include Geographic Information Science and Cartography, and Surveying Technology/Surveying.

Specialties and Similar Career Paths

Advice from John

Job hunt tips to set yourself apart:

Build a strong portfolio showcasing diverse map and GIS projects and obtain relevant certifications from organizations like Esri. Stay updated with the latest technology, actively network with professionals, and emphasize key skills such as spatial analysis and data visualization in your tailored applications.

Fastest way to get your foot in the door:

Leverage online resources like YouTube, where the mapping community shares its processes for beginners. Following tutorials, experimenting with tools, and practicing map-making can quickly build your skills. 

Recommended resources:

John recommends specific resources for aspiring cartographers:

1. YouTube Tutorials: Many creators share valuable insights and tutorials for free on YouTube. It’s a great starting point to explore different mapping techniques and tools.
2. MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses): Look for courses on platforms like Coursera, edX, or Esri’s training portal. These courses cover a wide range of topics in cartography and GIS.
3. Books:
   • The Visual Display of Quantitative Information by Edward Tufte: Offers valuable insights into distilling complex information into clear visual representations.
   • Cartography by Kenneth Field: Provides detailed explanations and examples of various cartographic techniques.

What John would tell his younger self if he was just getting started:

“It will be all right. Just keep grinding. Employers appreciate it when you have your own ideas and go for it. You don’t have to be assigned everything you do. Have self-direction, try new things, and work on projects that interest you. Look for opportunities to make maps out of the data you encounter, even if it’s not explicitly related to mapping.” 

Watch the full interview with John:

Connect with John: LinkedIn | YouTube

---

Data on job profiles is based on information supplied by the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, My Next Move from the National Center for O*NET Development, and the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration. Accessed 22 June 2024.

Favorite