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Cartography Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Produce detailed, high-quality cartographic products (digital and hardcopy) and accompanying reports as directed and in accordance with technical guidelines * Communicate with project team members to ...

Produce detailed, high-quality cartographic products (digital and hardcopy) and accompanying reports as directed and in accordance with technical guidelines * Communicate with project team members to ...

Produce detailed, high-quality cartographic products (digital and hardcopy) and accompanying reports in accordance with technical guidelines and client needs * Communicate with project team members ...

... cartographic design • Working knowledge of geospatial analysis methods and ESRI GIS applications development • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, especially Word, Excel, and ...

... cartographic design • Working knowledge of geospatial analysis methods and ESRI GIS applications development • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, especially Word, Excel, and ...

Cartography information

See Tennessee salary details

$33.1K

$69.2K

$103K

How much do cartography jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartography in Tennessee is $69,232.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $85,800.00 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 design can lead to higher earnings, especially in specialized or senior positions.

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.

Is cartography still a career?

Yes, cartography is still a viable career involving the creation and analysis of maps using GIS software and spatial data. Professionals in this field work in government, environmental, urban planning, and technology sectors, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The demand for accurate mapping and spatial analysis continues to grow with technological advancements.

What jobs use cartography?

Cartography is used in various jobs such as cartographers, GIS specialists, urban planners, environmental consultants, and geospatial analysts. These roles involve creating, analyzing, and interpreting maps and spatial data using GIS software and surveying tools. Professionals in these fields often require knowledge of geography, GIS technology, and map design principles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cartography jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Cartography jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Cartography jobs in Tennessee?

For Cartography jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cartography jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Cartography jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cartography jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Cartography job openings:

Infographic showing various Cartography job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,232 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

$61K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

About the Position: This is a developmental position. At the full performance level, you will serve as Branch cartographic expert and hardware/software system expert in the field of advanced bathymetric data collection using state-of-the-art Multi-beam/Channel Sweep data collection systems.Qualifications:

This is a developmental position in Engineering & Construction Division, Hydraulics & Hydrology Branch and may be filled at the GS-09, GS-10, or GS-11. If selected at the GS-09 or GS-10 level, the target level for this assignment is a GS-11. The grade level selected will be based upon your qualifications and responses to the questionnaire. Assignments at the GS-09/10 level will become progressively more difficult and will be under closer than normal supervision until the full performance level is reached. Non-Competitive promotion to the target job may be affected provided you are sufficiently experienced; meet all necessary qualification requirements for promotion to the target job; and is performing the full scope of the major duties.
Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.

  • Current Civilian Employees of the Command
  • Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
  • Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act
  • Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible
  • Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998

In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes assisting collecting data using Multi-beam/Channel Sweep technology. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-08).
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-8).
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes assisting in preparing the final product necessary to document technical results of study or investigation; and assisting collecting data using Multi-beam/Channel Sweep technology. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-09).
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-9).
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes advising counterparts on the appropriate and/or efficient use of channel sweep technology to produce valid and/or cost effective cartographic products; Assisting in preparing the final product necessary to document technical results of study or investigation; and collecting data using Multi-beam/Channel Sweep technology. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-10).
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-10).Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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