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Cartographer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hachette Book Group

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

The Senior Cartographer works closely with the cartography crew, production department, and book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza ...

Hachette Book Group

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

The Senior Cartographer works closely with the cartography crew, production department, and book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza ...

Chloeta

GIS Production Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$60/hr

Perform advanced spatial analysis, data validation, and cartographic production. * Support ArcGIS Online administration and web mapping applications. * Assist with ArcGIS Server and enterprise GIS ...

Chloeta

GIS Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$40 - $50/hr

Create cartographic products, graphics, and tabular reports to support engineering, environmental, and resource management projects. * Assist in the design, development, and maintenance of enterprise ...

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All JobsCartographer JobsCartographer Jobs in California

Cartographer information

See California salary details

$36K

$75.3K

$112K

How much do cartographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartographer in California is $75,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $93,300.00 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.
More about Cartographer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cartographer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cartographer jobs in California are:

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For Cartographer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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What cities in California are hiring for Cartographer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cartographer job openings:

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Cartographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cartographer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,280 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Want to be a Cartographer?

Cartography Biosciences

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

About Cartography Biosciences
Cartography Biosciences is a therapeutics organization creating the first atlas to identify targets that are specific enough to only engage cancerous cells, broad enough to work across cancer cells and patients, and safe enough to sidestep toxic side effects. Founded by Kevin Parker, Howard Chang, and Ansu Satpathy, Cartography is bridging immunology and computation to understand the critical differences between normal and cancerous cells, ultimately solving the challenge of finding the safest, most selective targets for a variety of immunotherapeutic approaches.
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