Cartographer

Cartographers primarily collect, measure, and interpret geographic information to create maps and charts for political and educational purposes.

Cartographers are increasingly working on online and mobile maps. Cartographers collect data and design these maps for mobile phones and navigation systems.

What a cartographer does...

• Collect and create visual representation of geographical data
• Examine and compile data from ground surveys, reports, and photos
• Update existing maps and charts
• Prepare maps in digital and graphic form 

Necessary skills

• Computer proficiency
• Critical-thinking
• Decision-making
• Detail-oriented
• Problem solving

Cartographers typically have a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, geomatics, or surveying, but others may also have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, forestry, or computer science.

Licensing requirements for cartographers vary by state. A number of states require cartographers to be licensed as surveyors. Although licensing requirements vary by state, candidates must have a minimum of a high school diploma and pass a test.

Dennis Bolt is an award-winning freelance designer, photographer, illustrator, cartographer, infographics wiz and fine artist currently residing in California.

States with the most employed cartographers are California, Virginia, Texas, Colorado, and Alabama.

Cartographers usually earn between $48k to $72k based on their expertise.

Annual salary for highest paid cartographers by state

Annual salary for lowest paid cartographers by state

Professional groups for cartographers

• North American Cartographic Information Society
• International Cartographic Association
• Cartography and Geography Information Society