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Cartographer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Cartographer, Senior The Opportunity: Conduct cartographic-based requests for the client. Maintain responsibility for all geographic databases, including shapefiles, hard copy maps, rasters, vectors ...

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

Geo Owl is currently looking for a Maritime Cartographer to support our customer in Springfield, Virginia. To be qualified, you need at least 5 years of relevant experience and meet the requirements ...

Mid Cartographic Analyst

Springfield, VA ยท On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

The National Security Sector at Leidos currently has an opening for a cleared cartographic analyst to support our customer in Springfield Virginia. This is an exciting opportunity to use your ...

The National Security Sector at Leidos currently has an opening for a cleared cartographic analyst to support our customer in Springfield Virginia. This is an exciting opportunity to use your ...

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Cartographer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$38K

$79.4K

$118.1K

How much do cartographer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartographer in Reston, VA is $79,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,100.00 and $98,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are cartographers still in demand?

Cartographers are still in demand as they create and update maps for various industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and navigation. The role often requires proficiency with GIS software and geographic data analysis, and employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily with technological advancements and increased reliance on spatial data.

What is the job of a cartographer?

A cartographer creates maps and visual representations of geographic data using specialized software and tools. They analyze spatial information, ensure accuracy, and may work with geographic information systems (GIS) to produce detailed and functional maps for various purposes.

What are cartographers?

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 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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A cartographer typically requires specialized training or a degree, but some related roles in GIS or freelance mapping can reach high earnings through experience and skills. High-paying jobs in this field often involve advanced software proficiency, project management, or consulting, which can lead to monthly incomes of $10,000 or more for experienced professionals. However, such earnings are uncommon without formal education or extensive experience.

What Do Cartographers 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 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 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.

Do cartographers get paid well?

Cartographers typically earn a median annual salary that is comparable to other GIS and mapping professionals, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced cartographers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in government or private sectors. Overall, the pay is considered moderate to good within the geographic information systems field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cartographer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Cartographer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Cartographer jobs in Reston, VA? For Cartographer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cartographer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Cartographer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Cartographer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Cartographer job openings:
Infographic showing various Cartographer job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,357 per year, or $38.2 per hour.
Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI

Mid-Level Cartographer - TS/SCI

Wiser

Springfield, VA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time, Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

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 public, private, and government sectors. We combine technology and expertise to develop inventive solutions that deliver quality results and aid in critical decision making. With the flexibility and efficiency of a small business, we provide nimble responsiveness with the low risk and strong performance experience of an established GEOINT and Geospatial service provider.

Role Description

We are presently identifying candidates for the following position: Mid-Level Cartographers. This role involves working closely with analysts to understand their requirements and using your cartography skills to enhance and convey analytic thoughts and assessments. The ideal candidate will have a passion for geographic information systems and a knack for turning complex information into compelling visual stories.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • U.S. Citizen
  • Active Top-Secret/SCI security clearance at time of application and willingness to complete a CI poly upon request.
  • A total of 5 points of relevant background via one of the following pathways:
    • High School diploma and 5 years of relevant military or full-time geospatial professional experience.
    • High School diploma and 4 years of experience plus GPC Level I and II certification.
    • Relevant Bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience.
    • Relevant Bachelor's degree and relevant Master's degree.
  • Experience in geography, cartography, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with proficiency in ArcGIS applications.
  • Knowledge of digital cartography, GIS production techniques, and NGA digital data formats.
  • Ability to analyze imagery and non-imagery source data for hydrographic products and databases.
  • Previous experience in Nautical Maritime domains (preferred, not required).

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work within a government/contractor team environment providing Electronic Nautical Chart Conversion, Production, and Review.
  • Support existing and developing mission areas, including Digital Nautical Chart or Electronic Nautical Chart Conversion production.
  • Perform cartographic and GIS analysis by extracting features from various sources, such as rasterized nautical charts, digital hydrographic survey data, and ortho-rectified imagery.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Team environment, onsite (Springfield, VA), Monday - Friday, full-time, flexible schedule. Placements are made for both 1st shift (ending by 1500) and 2nd shift (starting at 1500). Hours worked after 1800 receive a shift differential.

*Candidates are encouraged to submit a resume that explicitly addresses each of the requirements listed above.


Wiser Imagery Services employs personnel within the states of Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

To comply with Federal law, Wiser Imagery Services participates in E-Verify. Successful candidates must pass the E-Verify process upon hire.

Wiser Imagery Services is a drug-free workplace.

We respectfully request not to be contacted by recruiters and/or staffing agencies.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro