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What is a cartographer and how to become one
A cartographer is an individual map-maker. They study, design, and create maps and charts for public use or private clients. Their work is essential in education, urban planning, infrastructure development, and many other sectors. That said, there are plenty of opportunities for cartographers in utility companies, local government agencies, private consultancies, and commercial map publishers.
The typical job process of a cartographer consists of researching relevant data, gathering information from satellite images or aerial photographs, designing maps, checking the accuracy of created maps, and communicating with clients and information providers. Apart from extensive knowledge in cartography, an aspiring cartographer must have skills in IT, design, data collection, research, as well as impeccable attention to detail.
There is a wide variety of degrees that can make an individual eligible for this role, which includes geography, geology, surveying, computer science, earth science, and many more. However, having a postgraduate qualification in cartography, surveying, remote sensing, and other related fields can serve as a huge advantage. For this vital role, the average salary is $70,000 per year or about $35 per hour. Cartographers with postgraduate degrees and relevant experience may make more.
Avg. Salary $62,172
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 3%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.51%
Asian 4.94%
Black or African American 3.31%
Hispanic or Latino 10.76%
Unknown 4.83%
White 75.65%
Genderfemale 29.31%
male 70.69%
Age - 42American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 42Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
Cartographer career paths
Key steps to become a cartographer
Explore cartographer education requirements
Start to develop specific cartographer skills
Skills Percentages GIS 17.72% Data Collection 11.20% Extraction 10.97% Remote Sensing 8.06% GPS 6.40% Complete relevant cartographer training and internships
Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New cartographers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a cartographer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real cartographer resumes.Research cartographer duties and responsibilities
- Provide geographic-based services, support and expertise to numerous divisions in GTNP using ESRI ArcGIS software.
- Support cartographic map production through digital extraction and correlation of terrain and environmental features.
- Create and teach tutorials regarding spatial methodology relate to spatial analysis for statewide agency GIS users.
- Experience in production of NGA mapping products.
Get cartographer experience
Prepare your cartographer resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your cartographer resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a cartographer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable cartographer resume templates
Build a professional cartographer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your cartographer resume.
Apply for cartographer jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a cartographer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first cartographer job
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Average cartographer salary
The average cartographer salary in the United States is $62,172 per year or $30 per hour. Cartographer salaries range between $42,000 and $90,000 per year.
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Updated January 8, 2025
