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Cartographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Intelligence Agency

Cartographer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$68K - $172K/yr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a Cartographer at CIA, you will research, design, and produce maps to support CIA intelligence analysis. You will receive internal training and participate ...

Wiser

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCISt. Louis, MOTS/SCI Security Clearance Wiser offers innovative solutions to clients in the public, private, and government sectors. We combine technology and expertise ...

BAE Systems

Cartographer II

Fort Shafter, HI · On-site

Perform cartographic finishing, feature extraction, and data content management to customer data standards and in accordance with project specific guidance. Manage a geospatial database. Perform QA/Q ...

Wiser

Cartographer (Mid-Level) - TS/SCI

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI St. Louis, MO TS/SCI Security Clearance Wiser offers innovative solutions to clients in the public, private, and government sectors. We combine technology and ...

Ardent

Mid-Level Cartographer

Washington, DC · On-site

Ardent is seeking a Mid-Level Cartographer to join our team. This is a full-time, on-site position in Washington, D.C. Position Description: Ardent is seeking a Mid-Level Cartographer to serve as the ...

BAE Systems

Cartographer Sr

Fort Shafter, HI · On-site

Perform cartographic finishing, feature extraction, and data content management to customer data standards and in accordance with project specific guidance. Manage a geospatial database. Perform QA/Q ...

Wiser

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI

Springfield, VA · On-site

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI Location: Springfield, VA Experience Levels: Mid-Level (3)Required Clearance: Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance Wiser offers innovative solutions to clients in the ...

Wiser

Cartographer (Mid-Level) - TS/SCI

Springfield, VA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI Location: Springfield, VA Experience Levels: Mid-Level (3) Required Clearance: Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance Wiser offers innovative solutions to clients in the ...

The Pennsylvania State University

Meet with cartography clients to define project scope and to iteratively design cartographic products * Supervise and guide cartography project work in progress by undergraduate lab assistants.

Leidos

Cartographer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$50K - $91K/yr

Louis, MO as a Cartographer This exciting opportunity provides tradecraft and technical support for Foundation Data production, data integration, and data partnerships in support of the GEOINT ...

Leidos

Cartographer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$50K - $91K/yr

Louis, MO as a Cartographer This exciting opportunity provides tradecraft and technical support for Foundation Data production, data integration, and data partnerships in support of the GEOINT ...

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Cartographer information

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$36.5K

$76.3K

$113.5K

How much do cartographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartographer in the United States is $76,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cartographer?

Cartographers are professionals who specialize in the creation and design of maps. They use various sources of geographic data, such as satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and surveys, to compile and update maps for a range of purposes, including navigation, education, urban planning, and environmental studies. Cartographers must have strong analytical and technical skills to accurately represent physical and human-made features. They often use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other digital tools to produce both printed and interactive digital maps. Their work is essential for helping people visualize and understand spatial information.

What does a cartographer do?

Cartographers gather and analyze geographical data to produce maps. Utilizing remote sensing systems, cartographers work in the office and out in the field to examine aerial and satellite images to verify the accuracy of current mapping and create new maps for educational, business, or other purposes. Cartographers may also measure and analyze population density and weather patterns of various regions. Government agencies, engineering firms, and architectural companies typically utilize cartographers in a variety of projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cartographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cartographer, you need a solid background in geography, spatial analysis, and cartographic design, often supported by a relevant degree such as geography, GIS, or cartography. Proficiency with GIS software (like ArcGIS or QGIS), remote sensing tools, and digital mapping platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help cartographers interpret data accurately and convey complex information clearly. These skills are crucial for creating accurate, user-friendly maps that support decision-making in fields such as urban planning, navigation, and environmental management.

What are the most common challenges faced by cartographers when working on large-scale mapping projects?

One of the main challenges cartographers encounter during large-scale mapping projects is ensuring data accuracy and consistency, especially when integrating information from multiple sources. They often work closely with surveyors, GIS specialists, and government agencies to collect and verify geospatial data. Additionally, cartographers must balance the technical demands of using advanced mapping software with the creative aspects of designing clear, user-friendly maps. Meeting tight deadlines and adapting to rapidly evolving technology are also common hurdles in this role.

What is the difference between Cartographer vs GIS Technician?

AspectCartographerGIS Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Geography, Cartography, or related field; GIS certification often preferredBachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, or related field; GIS certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning and creating maps, often in offices or labsSupporting GIS data management, map production, and analysis in office settings
Industry UsageUsed in urban planning, environmental management, and mapping agenciesEmployed in government agencies, engineering firms, and environmental organizations

Both Cartographers and GIS Technicians work with geographic data, but Cartographers focus on designing and producing maps, while GIS Technicians support GIS data management and analysis. They often collaborate but have distinct roles within geospatial projects.

Do cartographers make a lot of money?

Cartographers typically earn a median annual salary that is around the national average for technical and scientific roles, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in GIS software and certifications can lead to higher earnings, especially in government agencies or private companies. Overall, while the role offers stable employment, it is not generally considered highly lucrative compared to other specialized technical careers.

Is there a demand for cartographers?

The demand for cartographers is expected to grow steadily due to increased reliance on geographic information systems (GIS) and digital mapping technologies across industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation. Strong skills in GIS software, spatial analysis, and data visualization can enhance employment prospects in this field.

What are the requirements to be a cartographer?

To become a cartographer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in geography, cartography, GIS, or a related field. Skills in GIS software, spatial analysis, and map design are essential, and some positions may require experience with programming languages like Python or JavaScript. Certification in GIS or related areas can enhance job prospects.

What job does a cartographer do?

A cartographer creates maps and visual representations of geographic data using specialized software and tools. They analyze spatial information, ensure accuracy, and often work with geographic information systems (GIS) to produce detailed, functional maps for various applications such as navigation, urban planning, and environmental management.
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Cartographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cartographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,279 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Cartographer

Washington, DC

Corporate Gray Newsletter - December Issue
See more jobs at Corporate Gray Newsletter - December Issueexternal

$68K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Cartographers produce maps to support intelligence analysis for senior policymakers, including the President of the United States.Qualifications:Minimum Qualifications
Interested candidates should be passionate about the ideals of our American republic, committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
  • Ability to collect, analyze, and integrate geographic and substantive data into an effectively designed cartographic product
  • Knowledge of cartographic design principles including color and symbology theory, map projections, thematic and statistical mapping, topographic and reference mapping, display hierarchies, typography, and data generation
  • Knowledge of GIS principles including data types; data layers; basic geographic, analytic and statistical functions; geographic coordinate systems; and data formatting
  • Ability to work periodic shift work, including nights and weekends
  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation
  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation
Desired Qualifications
  • Proficient in the use of, or be rapidly gaining expertise with the software, hardware, and platforms necessary for cartographic, graphic, and web/mobile production, such as some of the following:
    • GIS
    • ESRI ArcGIS
    • HTML
    • Programming languages
    • Avenza MAPublisher
    • Intergraph GeoMedia Pro
    • Microsoft Office
    • Adobe software such as Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat
  • Experience with the Adobe suite of software and web and mobile conveyance
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in one of the following:
    • Cartography
    • Geography
    • Geospatial Information Systems (GIS)
  • At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale is preferred, but exceptions are made for extenuating circumstances
Employment Type: OTHER

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