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Cartographer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Cartographer information

See Michigan salary details

$31.8K

$66.5K

$98.9K

How much do cartographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartographer in Michigan is $66,484.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,200.00 and $82,400.00 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 Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,484 per year, or $32 per hour.

(Full Time) GIS Analyst

Brighton, MI • On-site

Huron-Clinton Metroparks
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Huron-Clinton Metroparksexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

This is an onsite position, requiring you to work at our Brighton, Michigan office and other Metroparks across SE Michigan.
Position SummaryThe GIS Analyst serves as the lead and only geospatial subject matter expert, overseeing GIS administration, operations, data governance, and program standards across the Metroparks. This includes managing, analyzing, and mapping spatial and tabular data using the ESRI platform, producing annual GIS report outputs, which include cartographic products, analytics, and SQL queries to support organizational reporting and decision-making, and leading mobile GIS and geospatial analysis efforts across the local network, SQL Server, and cloud environments. The GIS Analyst serves the ArcGIS Online administrator and develops tools to streamline workflows and maintain data inventories. The position also leads the effort to modernize and strengthen the organization’s geospatial program by promoting transparency, consistency, and cross-program coordination.
This position reports jointly to the Chief of Planning and Development and the Chief of IT, and works closely with the Natural Resources and Engineering departments along with other departments. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • GIS Program Leadership and Governance: Serve as the lead geospatial subject matter expert, providing strategic leadership for GIS operations, data governance, program standards, and modernization efforts across the organization. Represent the Metroparks in meetings with vendors, other governmental agencies and business and professional organizations.
  • Geospatial Data Management and Analysis: Manage, analyze, and maintain spatial and tabular datasets across local network, SQL Server, and cloud environments, ensuring data quality, consistency, and usability for organizational needs. This includes managing HCMA authoritative data sources, drone imagery, LiDAR and other raster derivatives, and acquiring authoritative external data sources to make them available for users, supporting comprehensive GIS analysis and mapping. This position would be expected to share the data management strategy with other departments as necessary to help enforce data consistency and standardization.
  • GIS Platform Administration and Support: Administer ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Pro platforms, managing AGOL licensing and supporting web GIS, user access, content management, and overall system functionality.
  • Reporting, Cartography, and Decision Support: Produce annual GIS reports, cartographic products, analytics, and SQL queries that support regulatory reporting, program evaluation, and informed decision-making. Current annual reports include visitation reports, district reports, and reports for programs and special events.
  • Data Collection and Mobile GIS Operations: Develop workflows and tools to support accurate, efficient field data capture and integration with organizational datasets for data collection initiatives across the organization. May need to assist with data collection in the field.
  • GIS Workplan and Technical Support: Work collaboratively with Planning, Engineering, Natural Resources and other Metroparks departments to develop a prioritized work plan for each department’s GIS needs. Provide technical support for escalated helpdesk tickets, focusing on GIS issues. May be required to provide support outside of normal business hours, during special events, evenings, weekends and holidays.
Minimum/Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in GIS, Geography, information technology or a related technical field. Applicants with 8 or more years of related service will be given credit toward meeting the minimum educational requirements and will be considered for the position.
  • Four or more years of work experience in GIS, preferably with ESRI ArcGIS, and geospatial data analytics.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of ESRI GIS software and applications, including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Survey123 and other ESRI tools, outside of a school setting.
  • Basic knowledge of data structures and databases.
  • Working knowledge of programming in Python and SQL.
  • Familiarity with ArcGIS Drone2Map or similar.
  • Familiarity with business analytics software, preferably Microsoft Power BI for geospatial data analytics.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and make recommendations on functionality of GIS applications for planning, engineering, natural resources, marketing and public safety use cases.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks while applying creative problem solving
  • Ability to learn IT environment and applications for integration with GIS applications.
  • Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, non-technical users, and outside agencies.
  • Ability to express complex technical concepts effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to communicate with and understand the needs of non-technical users.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal direction.
  • May be required to adjust schedule to meet organizational needs, including special events, evenings, weekends & holidays.
  • Must maintain a valid Michigan driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to perform essential duties.
Tools, Equipment and Hardware Requirements
  • Knowledge of ESRI GIS software, applications and tools.
  • Working knowledge of Windows 11.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.
 JD DisclaimersEqual Employment OpportunityHCMA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to: recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Veterans FriendlyHCMA will continually recognize and support our veterans, servicemembers, and their families. Our commitment applies to all employment practices including, but not limited to recruiting, hiring, promotions, training, benefits, retention, certification, and testing. We fully recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
Physical DemandsDemandFrequencyBendingOccasionalClimbingNeverCrawlingNeverDrivingFrequentDriving High SpeedNeverElectrical HazardsNeverHand Dexterity-GraspingConstantHand Dexterity-HoldingFrequentHand Dexterity-TypingConstantHearingConstantLifting-Heavy 50 + lbs.OccasionalLifting-Light 0 to 10 lbs.FrequentLifting-Moderate 10 to 50 lbs.OccasionalReachingOccasionalReadingConstantSittingFrequentStandingFrequentTalkingFrequentTravelingOccasionalWalkingFrequentWet/Slippery SurroundingsOccasionalWorking AloneOccasionalWorking around Hazardous MaterialsNeverWorking around Loud Sounds/MachineryOccasionalWorking in the dark/nightOccasionalWorking in extreme temperatures (hot/cold)NeverWorking InsideConstantWorking OutsideOccasionalWorking OvertimeOccasionalWorking with poor ventilationOccasionalWorking with the publicOccasional

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