Cartographers & Photogrammetrists

information map scale design aerial photograph realistic interests report comprehension chart project

Cartographer, Photogrammetric Technician, Photogrammetrist, Stereo Compiler

What they 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.
On the job, you would:
  • 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.

Knowledge

Math and Science

  • geography
  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Engineering and Technology

  • computers and electronics
  • design

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Skills

Basic Skills

  • reading work related information
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Abilities

Verbal

  • read and understand what is written
  • listen and understand what people say

Ideas and Logic

  • make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
  • use rules to solve problems

Visual Understanding

  • see hidden patterns
  • quickly compare groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include data, detail, and regular routines.

They do well at jobs that need:

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Cooperation
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Innovation
  • Initiative

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Adobe Illustrator Hot Technology
  • Adobe Photoshop Hot Technology

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint Hot Technology

Map creation software

  • Mapping software
  • Precision analytical aerotriangulation pugging software

Education

Education: (rated 4 of 5)
certificate after high school or
bachelor's degree
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training
Find Licenses
Apprenticeship.gov

Job Outlook

Bright
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
Local Salary Info
Find Jobs
See more details at O*NET OnLine about cartographers and photogrammetrists.