Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Overview
Cartographers and photogrammetrists are the mapmakers of the modern world who collect geographic data and create detailed maps and charts using cutting-edge technology. They analyze satellite images, aerial photographs, and ground surveys to build digital maps that help with everything from urban planning to environmental protection. Using specialized software like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), they layer different types of data to create interactive maps that can show patterns like rainfall, population density, or natural disasters. This field combines outdoor fieldwork with high-tech computer analysis, and many professionals work in collaborative teams for government agencies, environmental organizations, or tech companies.
Did you know?
Modern cartographers must master GIS software, remote sensing technologies, and digital mapping tools as the field has largely transitioned from traditional hand-drawn maps to computer-based systems.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$77,336.14 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Mathematics
Key Responsibilities
- Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps.
- Inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Select aerial photographic and remote sensing techniques and plotting equipment needed to meet required standards of accuracy.
- 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.
- 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.
- Study legal records to establish boundaries of local, national, and international properties.
- Prepare and alter trace maps, charts, tables, detailed drawings, and three-dimensional optical models of terrain using stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment.
- Travel over photographed areas to observe, identify, record, and verify all relevant features.
- Delineate aerial photographic detail, such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features, using precision stereoplotting apparatus or drafting instruments.
- Revise existing maps and charts, making all necessary corrections and adjustments.
- Build and update digital databases.
- Determine guidelines that specify which source material is acceptable for use.
- Collect information about specific features of the Earth, using aerial photography and other digital remote sensing techniques.
Career Considerations
Technology Proficiency Requirements
Modern cartographers must master GIS software, remote sensing technologies, and digital mapping tools as the field has largely transitioned from traditional hand-drawn maps to computer-based systems.
Government Employment Opportunities
Federal agencies like the U.S. Geological Survey, Census Bureau, and Department of Defense offer significant employment opportunities for cartographers in America.
Competition from Automated Mapping
Cartographers face increasing competition from automated mapping technologies and crowd-sourced platforms, requiring specialization in complex analytical and interpretive work.