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Cartography Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Cartography information

See Michigan salary details

$31.8K

$66.5K

$98.9K

How much do cartography jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartography 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 cartography?

Cartography is the science and art of making maps. It involves the collection, analysis, interpretation, and representation of geographic information to create visual depictions of areas, regions, or features on the Earth. Cartographers use a combination of technical skills, geographic knowledge, and design principles to create maps for various purposes, including navigation, education, and research. Modern cartography often utilizes digital tools and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to produce interactive and accurate maps.

Is cartography still a career?

Yes, cartography is still a viable career that involves creating and updating maps using GIS software, satellite imagery, and data analysis. The field has evolved with technology, requiring skills in digital mapping, spatial analysis, and geographic information systems, and offers opportunities in government, environmental management, urban planning, and technology sectors.

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 strong background in geography, spatial data analysis, and map design, usually supported by a degree in geography, cartography, or GIS. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing software, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help cartographers interpret complex data and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills ensure the creation of accurate, visually clear maps that support decision-making in fields like urban planning, navigation, and environmental management.

What is the difference between Cartography vs GIS Specialist?

AspectCartographyGIS Specialist
Required CredentialsDegree in Geography, Cartography, or related fieldDegree in Geography, GIS, or related field; GIS certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning maps, visualizing spatial data, often in offices or labsManaging GIS databases, analyzing spatial data, often in offices or fieldwork
Industry UsageCreating maps for publications, navigation, or planningSpatial data analysis, GIS software management, and data integration

While both roles involve working with spatial data, cartographers focus on designing and producing maps, emphasizing visual representation. GIS specialists handle data analysis, database management, and spatial analysis using GIS software. Both roles often overlap but serve different primary functions within the geospatial industry.

How can I get into cartography?

To pursue a career in cartography, obtaining a bachelor's degree in geography, GIS, or a related field is common. Developing skills in GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, gaining experience through internships or projects, and earning certifications can improve job prospects in this field.

How do cartographers typically collaborate with other professionals during a mapping project?

Cartographers often work closely with surveyors, GIS analysts, urban planners, and environmental scientists to gather and interpret spatial data for accurate map creation. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to discuss project requirements, data sources, and design preferences. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as cartographers must ensure that the maps produced meet the needs of diverse stakeholders and adhere to project specifications. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances map quality but also provides valuable insights from different fields.

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 cartographic tools can lead to higher pay, especially in specialized or senior positions.

What are cartography jobs?

Cartography jobs are any jobs involving drawing maps, doing geospatial data analysis, or using geographic information systems (GIS). Some specific jobs in cartography include cartographer, GIS technician, database administrator, mapping technician, software engineer, and systems analyst, to name just a few. Many industries, including natural resource extraction and tech, employ cartographers and other GIS specialists. You can also find work with numerous government agencies, such as the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Bureau of Land Management.

More about Cartography jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cartography jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Cartography jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Cartography jobs in Michigan? For Cartography jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cartography jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Cartography jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Cartography jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Cartography job openings:
Cartography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cartography job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,484 per year, or $32 per hour.

(Full Time) GIS Analyst

Huron-Clinton Metroparks

Brighton, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

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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