Cartographer
Collects, measures, and interprets geographic information to create and update maps and charts for various purposes.
Work Profile
Salary Growth
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These are the practical tools, systems, math, and AI skills used in Cartographer roles.
Math & Analysis
Requirements
Systems & Software
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Many professionals start in Cartographer roles and later move into higher-paying or more specialized careers by developing additional skills.
Geographer
Move between related career paths by building adjacent skills and experience.
Typical Salary: $85000-$125000
Skills Needed: map design, GIS, data visualization, spatial analysis
Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
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See the exact skills, certifications, projects, and step-by-step plan to break into Cartographer.
- Real projects to build experience
AI Impact & Task Breakdown
AI automates the extraction of features (like buildings/roads) from satellite images.
How to Stay Valuable
- Develop judgment, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Learn how AI tools can support this career instead of ignoring them
- Move toward strategy, interpretation, and higher-value work over time
AI Scores
Based on 10 analyzed tasks
More likely automated
- Create and update maps
- Analyze GIS and geospatial data
Still requires human judgment
- Coordinate with planners scientists or clients
- Create and update maps
How AI Affects This Job
This career includes a mix of tasks. Some are becoming more automated, while others are becoming more valuable because they require human expertise.
Create and update maps
Design geographic products that communicate boundaries features and spatial relationships
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
Create Accurate Maps
Compile geographic data to produce maps for navigation planning or analysis
Likely adoption: 0-2 years
Analyze GIS and geospatial data
Interpret datasets imagery and coordinate systems for mapping accuracy
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
Interpret Spatial Datasets
Review satellite imagery survey outputs and GIS layers for mapping projects
Likely adoption: 0-2 years
Apply map design standards and symbols
Select projections labels colors and layers for clear visual presentation
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
Design Map Layouts
Choose symbols colors labels and scales that make maps usable and clear
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
Validate spatial accuracy and metadata
Check sources scale alignment and documentation before publication
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
Update Geospatial Records
Maintain current map data when roads boundaries or land features change
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
Coordinate with planners scientists or clients
Clarify map requirements and tailor outputs to project needs
Likely adoption: 5-10 years
Consult with Project Stakeholders
Translate user needs into map products for agencies businesses or researchers
Likely adoption: 3-5 years
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