Cartographer

Explore This Path

Transform spatial data into maps for diverse fields like education and design.
Impact society by visualizing geographic data for better decision-making.
Blend art and science to craft detailed maps using cutting-edge technology.

💰 Earn $80K-$120K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 24–48 MONTH TRAINING

📈 6.3% JOB GROWTH

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What You’ll Do

Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. May collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.

Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps.
Delineate aerial photographic detail, such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features, using precision stereoplotting 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.
Study legal records to establish boundaries of local, national, and international properties.
Inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.

Scoop

Minimum Education

Bachelor Degree

Career Prospects

Excellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time

2 to 4 years

Job Openings

1,000 Annually

Median Earnings

$98,810 in California

$76,210 Nationally

$25K

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$250K

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Complex Problem Solving
Critical Thinking
Mathematics
Reading Comprehension
Speaking
Writing

You value 🙏

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Job security

Deep Dive

Cartographer

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-3 years

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 4-5+ years