Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

What Does a Cartographers and Photogrammetrists 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.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• 1Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps.
• 2Delineate aerial photographic detail, such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features, using precision stereoplotting apparatus or drafting instruments.
• 3Prepare and alter trace maps, charts, tables, detailed drawings, and three-dimensional optical models of terrain using stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment.
• 4Study legal records to establish boundaries of local, national, and international properties.
• 5Inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• 6Revise existing maps and charts, making all necessary corrections and adjustments.
• 7Identify, scale, and orient geodetic points, elevations, and other planimetric or topographic features, applying standard mathematical formulas.
• 8Collect information about specific features of the Earth, using aerial photography and other digital remote sensing techniques.

Required Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Writing
• Critical Thinking
• Adobe Acrobat
• Adobe Creative Cloud software
• Adobe Dreamweaver
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe Photoshop
• Aerotriangulation adjustment software
• Aldus FreeHand
• Arbor Image Draftsman
• Autodesk AutoCAD

Cartographers and Photogrammetrists Salary