Private Sector Jobs
Many of the present-day careers in cartography and GIS are found in the commercial sector. Because of the growing demand for software tools, individuals are needed who are well versed in geographical and cartographic concepts but also feel comfortable working with the hardware and software that drive the applications. These positions reflect the growing importance of GIS in all sectors of society and require a unique combination of education and skills.
Job Titles in the Private Sector
- GIS Coordinator/Assistant Director of Development
- Technical Support Analyst
- Database Analysts
- Consultant/Project Manager
- Project Manager
- Software Engineer
- Internet Product Software Engineer
- Applications Programmer
- GIS Software Product Specialist
- Industry Marketing Manager
- GIS Instructors
- Data Publisher
- Database and System Integrator
- Computer Mapping Technician
- GIS Database Administrator & GIS Systems Analyst
- GIS Manager/Information Services Planner
- GIS Manager/Senior Level
- GIS Specialist
- GIS Data Manager
- Senior GIS Analyst
- Senior Software Engineer
- GIS Sales Manager
- GIS Analyst II
- GIS Coordinator/Assistant Director of Development
Federal Jobs
The job of a cartographer in the Federal sector is evolving. There is a strong emphasis by Congress to contract to the private sector the production and collection of geospatial data. While Federal cartographers continue to produce graphic map products and collect digital geospatial data, there is a growing tendency to utilize cartographers as Geographic Information Specialists, evaluators of data produced under contract or by the private sector, developers of geospatial content, documentation, and transfer standards, and integrators of geospatial data across many disciplines.
Federal cartographers usually have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in geography, cartography, or civil engineering.
Entry level positions for cartographers are typically filled at the GS-5 or GS-7 level, occasionally GS-9 or GS-11 entry level positions are available based on the education level and qualifications of the applicant. The 2024 General Schedule (excluding locality payments) is as follows:
- GS-5:$33K to 44K
- GS-7: $42K to 54K
- GS-9: $51K to 67K
- GS-11: $62K to 81K
Although entry level salaries may seem low, wages improve with time and experience. The average annual salary for a federal government cartographer in 2024 was $102K.
Major U.S. federal agencies employing cartographers and geographic information specialists include:
Department of Commerce:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- National Geodetic Survey
- U.S. Census Bureau
Department of the Interior:
- U.S. Geological Survey
- Bureau of Land Management
- National Park Service
Department of Agriculture:
- Forest Service
Environmental Protection Agency
Department of Defense:
- National Imagery and Mapping Agency
State Jobs
The following examples are from the State of South Carolina.
Cartographer I
Performs specialized cartographic drafting work for mapping and topography. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of standard and specialized cartographic processes and techniques.
• Skill in the use of drawing instruments and drafting materials.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, plans and survey notes.
• Ability to execute complex cartographic projects.
• Ability to train other employees in proper cartographic drafting procedures.
Cartographer II
Performs advanced cartographic drafting duties or plans and coordinates mapping and topographic work.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of cartography.
• Knowledge of state and federal mapping procedures and regulations.
• Skill in the use of cartographic drafting equipment, instruments and materials.
• Ability to plan, schedule and supervise the work of others.
• Ability to train lower-level workers in cartographic drafting processes and techniques.
GIS Analyst
Uses a geographic information system (GIS) to generate graphic products and facilitate spatial analysis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of spatial analysis techniques and cartography.
• Knowledge of graphic hardware and GIS software.
• Ability to operate GIS equipment.
Minimum Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in geography or a related field; or an associate degree in geography or a related field and experience in the use of GIS software.
GIS Manager II
Directs the staffing, development and implementation of a geographic information system (GIS).
Examples of Work:
• Supervises a GIS staff and manages GIS facilities and programs.
• Develops goals and implements long range plans, policies and procedures to guide GIS operations.
• Establishes and implements cooperative efforts with other governmental and public organizations to accomplish program objectives.
• Develops budgets and identifies sources of additional funding.
• Serves as the staff expert on GIS matters.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of GIS hardware and software standards, capabilities and applications.
• Knowledge of applicable state and federal regulatory programs.
• Knowledge of state administrative, legislative and budgetary procedures.
• Ability to plan and oversee the activities of others.
• Ability to develop and manage grant funding.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
Minimum Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in geography or a related field and experience in the management and application of a geographic information system.