Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

Career summary

# 3/26/19 lh

Cartographers and photogrammetrists create maps. When designing a map, cartographers and photogrammetrists must take into consideration how the map will be used and who will use it. Some maps are designed for legal purposes and others for travel or education. The content and layout of a map help determine specifications such as size, scale, and color.

Cartographers gather and analyze geographic data and design maps based on themes, such as:

• Population density
• Demographic characteristics
• Precipitation patterns

If they are revising an existing map, they double check all the locations and names of places and markers. They also check legal records to determine the boundaries of an area.

Photogrammetrists create maps using photographs taken from airplanes, satellites, and remote sensing systems. They plan aerial surveys to ensure they have covered all the land area for a map. Sometimes they use computers to build 3-D models to help create a map.

Cartographers and photogrammetrists sometimes travel to areas they are mapping in order to identify relevant features. After they decide which data to feature in a map, they figure out details, such as scale and color. They use math formulas to calculate scale. They use drafting tools and computers to draw maps in graphical (paper) or digital format. When a map is complete it is inspected for accuracy.

More cartographers are using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to perform their work. These systems allow data to be stored and accessed for a variety of purposes such as maps, charts, tables, and reports.

Cartographers and photogrammetrists work with others such as mapping scientists and surveyors.

Related careers

This career is part of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Database Administrators
• Drafters
• Engineering Technicians
• Geographers
• Geographic Information Systems Specialists
• Geologists and Geophysicists
• Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists
• Precision Agriculture Technicians
• Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
• Surveying and Mapping Technicians
• Surveyors
• Web Developers

Military careers

• Surveying, Mapping, and Drafting Technicians

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to cartographers and photogrammetrists.

• Correct existing maps and charts or create new ones. Determine what information to use in mapping an area.
• Use aerial photographs and remote sensing data as guides for new maps and charts.
• Travel over photographed area to record details and verify current maps and charts.
• Study legal records to find out boundaries of the area being mapped.
• Analyze current data, such as maps, surveys, and photos, to figure out the names and locations of geographic features.
• Decide the scale of the map using math formulas. Decide on final details such as color, size, and projection.
• Develop final design concept of map. Inspect for completeness and accuracy.
• Prepare actual map according to final plan.
• Build and update digital databases.

Common work activities

Cartographers and photogrammetrists perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Get information needed to do the job
• Use computers
• Evaluate information against standards
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Document and record information
• Process information
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Analyze data or information
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Think creatively
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Schedule work and activities
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Perform for or work with the public
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Develop goals and strategies
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Teach others
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others
• Develop and build teams
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, cartographers and photogrammetrists:

Interpersonal relationships

• Spend some of their time interacting with others.
• Are responsible for the work outcomes and results of others.
• Use the telephone and e-mail daily.
• Often work as part of a team.
• Write letters and memos monthly.
• Communicate with coworkers in person daily.

Physical work conditions

• Usually work indoors.

Work performance

• Must be certain that a job is done accurately and completely.
• Repeat the same physical and mental tasks daily.
• Work in a moderately competitive environment.
• Rarely consult a supervisor before making a decision.
• Meet strict deadlines weekly.

Hours/travel

• May work more than 40 hours a week to meet deadlines.
• May have a flexible schedule if they freelance for different companies or organizations.

Physical demands

Cartographers and photogrammetrists frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.
• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Repeat the same movements.

It is important for cartographers and photogrammetrists to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for cartographers and photogrammetrists to be able to:

• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.

Skills and abilities

Cartographers and photogrammetrists need to:

Communicate

• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Understand written information.
• Understand spoken information.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.

Reason and problem solve

• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.

Use math and science

• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Perceive and visualize

• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Cartography

Other programs of study to consider

• Civil Engineering
• Drafting and Design Technology
• Forestry
• Geography
• Geological and Earth Sciences
• Mining Technology
• Natural Resources Conservation
• Surveying Technology

Training

To work as a cartographer or photogrammetrist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have a bachelor's degree.

Education after high school

Most cartographers and photogrammetrists have a bachelor's degree. Some have a master's degree. Recommended majors are:

• Geography
• Civil Engineering
• Forestry
• Geology

Whatever major you choose you should take as many classes as you can in geography, geographic information systems, and cartography.

Work experience

You may be able to become a cartographic assistant without a college education. In a few cases, this could lead to cartographic work. You must have excellent technical skills for this route to succeed. This is because these workers use computers and geographic information systems.

High school students interested in this occupation should try a summer job with a construction company or other company that prepares maps. Federal government agencies may have part-time jobs for cartographic assistants.

On-the-job training

Most beginning cartographers and photogrammetrists receive some on-the-job training. The length of training varies by employer. In general, these workers receive between six and 12 months of training.

Employers may send new employees to software training. Rapid changes in hardware and software require you to spend time each year learning new techniques and software programs.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be surveying, mapping, and drafting technicians. Training lasts nine to 31 weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.

A second option is to be trained as an intelligence officer. You need a bachelor's degree to enter this occupation. Training lasts 23 to 26 weeks.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum  may be different from your state's graduation requirements .

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Drawing and Painting
• Geography
• Geology
• Photography

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers look for cartographers and photogrammetrists who have earned a bachelor's degree in geography, engineering, forestry, or another physical science. They look for workers who know how to use computers and mapping software. They also prefer to hire people with a portfolio of completed maps.

Costs to workers

Some workers may wish to join a professional association, which may have annual dues. Union workers pay membership fees.

Licensing/certification

Many states require cartographers and photogrammetrists to be licensed as surveyors, and some states have specific licenses for photogrammetrists. Requirements vary by state.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Cartographers and Photogrammetrists 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Cartographers and photogrammetrists who work full time for the government or for mapmaking companies usually receive benefits. These include paid holidays and vacation, health insurance, and a retirement plan. Freelance cartographers and photogrammetrists may not receive these benefits. However, they may be able to increase their earnings by working for several companies and organizations. 

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Engineering firms
• Federal, state, and local government agencies

National outlook

Demand will be very strong for this occupation, however, it is a small occupation and few jobs will be created. Increased demand is due to the need for reliable and accurate maps. The use of maps and mapping data by governments and private companies will also increase demand. The management of forests and waterways will also require maps to be updated more and more frequently. 

Opportunities will be best for people who have a bachelor's degree and updated skills such as experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This is because employers are looking for workers who can use new technologies.

Other resources

American Geophysical Union 
2000 Florida Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20009
800.966.2481
202.462.6900

American Geosciences Institute 
4220 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22302
703.379.2480

American Institute of Professional Geologists 
1333 W. 120th Avenue
Suite 211
Westminster, Colorado 80234-2710
303.412.6205

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Career Brochure 

Careers in Cartography and GIS 
(from the Cartography and Geographic Information Society)

International Cartographic Association 

Society of Women Engineers 
130 East Randolph Street, Suite 3500
Chicago, IL 60601
877.793.4636

References

Career cluster

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Cartographers and Photogrammetrists (17-1021.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed. A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Drafter, Cartographic (018.261-010) 
• Field-map Editor (018.262-010) 
• Photogrammetrist (018.261-026) 
• Supervisor, Cartography (018.131-010) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative
• Realistic/Investigative/Conventional

COPSystem

• Technology Professional