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Cartography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$82K - $140K/yr

Experience in combining digital cartography, computer technology, GIS, cartographic and geospatial production techniques, remote sensing, photogrammetry, and digital data formats. Experience working ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

Meet with cartography clients to define project scope and to iteratively design cartographic products * Supervise and guide cartography project work in progress by undergraduate lab assistants.

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Cartography information

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$36.5K

$76.3K

$113.5K

How much do cartography jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cartography in the United States is $76,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $94,500.00 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.

What cities are hiring for Cartography jobs? Cities with the most Cartography job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cartography jobs? The most popular types of Cartography jobs are:
What states have the most Cartography jobs? States with the most job openings for Cartography jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cartography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,279 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

$82K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description


Perform cartographic finishing, feature extraction, and data content management to customer data standards and in accordance with project specific guidance.
Manage a geospatial database.
Perform QA/QC functions and correct data call errors.
Compile, segregate, evaluate, research, interpret, analyze, and disseminate intelligence information to support operations.
Prepare, maintain, and present intelligence displays, reports, and briefings with the creation and use of visual aids and drafting, editing, and proofreading documents for publishing.
**Relocation is available**
Required Skills and Education
NOTE: Must attain and maintain active TS/SCI clearance, and obtain/maintain Technical Expert (TE) accreditation and SOFA status.
Five (5) to Ten (10) years of demonstrated relevant experience required.
A degree (BS) in GIS, Geography, or related field preferred.
Cartographic finishing, feature extraction, and data content management related experience required.
Knowledge of CIB1, TLMs, MGCP products, MDG, DTED, SRTM, in boundary recovery processes.
Knowledge of feature data extraction; attribution process and cartographic finishing techniques.
Proficient in ArcGIS, Socet-Set, RemoteView, or comparable ELT software.
Superior knowledge of geospatial database content management.
Experience with FME, ESRI extract, transform, and load (ETL) tools, or similar software extensions.
Experience with GAIT, ArcGIS Data ReViewer, or comparable geospatial data inspection software.
knowledge on intelligence organizations and systems; collection and reporting systems, intelligence information sources; techniques of identifying, collating, evaluating, and analyzing information.
Superior knowledge of geographical and cultural aspects of foreign countries.
Proven ability to develop production schedules and deliver customer requirements on-time or ahead of schedule and proven ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
Experience in combining digital cartography, computer technology, GIS, cartographic and geospatial production techniques, remote sensing, photogrammetry, and digital data formats.
Experience working with geospatial data in a multi-user enterprise environment.
Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.
About BAE Systems Intelligence & Security
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
Intelligence & Security (I&S), based in McLean, Virginia, designs and delivers advanced defense, intelligence, and security solutions that support the important missions of our customers. Our pride and dedication shows in everything we do-from intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems integration, and operations and maintenance services. Knowing that our work enables the U.S. military and government to recognize, manage and defeat threats inspires us to push ourselves and our technologies to new levels.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Preferred Skills and Education
Desired Skills:
Experience using data mining tools; open source research methods; understanding of military capabilities weapon systems; application engineering, system administration, or software configuration of industry standard geospatial analysis and production software; experience with Oracle Spatial or ArcSDE.
Knowledge of python scripting to streamline and automate routine production processes.

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