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Entry Level Cartography Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

This is an entry level technical support position, working with Designers, Engineers, GIS Management, and other support staff. The incumbent will perform cartographic displays (ESRI Suite, Autodesk ...

This is an entry level technical support position, working with Designers, Engineers, GIS Management, and other support staff. The incumbent will perform cartographic displays (ESRI Suite, Autodesk ...

Entry Level Cartography information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$35.5K

$74.1K

$110.3K

How much do entry level cartography jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cartography in Raleigh, NC is $74,149.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $91,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level cartographers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level cartographers often encounter challenges such as learning to use specialized GIS and mapping software, interpreting complex data sets, and balancing accuracy with deadlines. Adapting to rapidly changing technology and mastering industry-standard tools can feel overwhelming at first. However, many organizations offer mentorship, training programs, and supportive team environments to help new hires build these skills. Seeking feedback from experienced colleagues and actively participating in team projects can also accelerate learning and integration into the workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cartographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cartographer, you need a background in geography or GIS, strong spatial reasoning, and proficiency with map design principles, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with technical tools such as GIS software (like ArcGIS or QGIS), GPS technology, and data visualization applications is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and good communication skills help you interpret data accurately and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure the creation of precise, user-friendly maps that meet project requirements and support effective decision-making.

What are entry level cartography jobs?

Entry level cartography jobs are positions for individuals starting out in the field of mapmaking and geographic data visualization. These roles typically involve assisting with the creation, updating, and analysis of maps using geographic information systems (GIS) and other mapping software. Common tasks include data collection, map editing, and supporting more experienced cartographers in producing accurate and visually engaging maps. Entry level cartographers often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or private mapping firms. A bachelor's degree in geography, cartography, or a related field is usually required.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cartography vs Entry Level GIS Technician?

AspectEntry Level CartographyEntry Level GIS Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geography, Cartography, or related fieldBachelor's in Geography, GIS, or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning maps, creating visual representations, working with GIS softwareData management, spatial analysis, GIS software operation
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, mapping companies, environmental firmsGovernment, urban planning, environmental consulting
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in mapping and visualizationEntry-level GIS data management and analysis roles

Entry Level Cartography focuses on creating visual maps and spatial representations, often emphasizing design skills. Entry Level GIS Technicians handle data management and spatial analysis within GIS software. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their daily tasks and employer usage differ slightly, with cartographers more involved in map design and GIS technicians in data processing and analysis.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cartography jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Cartography jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cartography jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Cartography jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cartography jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cartography jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Cartography jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Cartography job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cartography job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,149 per year, or $35.6 per hour.
GIS Technician I

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY:

GIS Technicians are expected to have basic level knowledge of GIS programs, spatial and cartographic understanding, and GIS software skills. This is an entry level technical support position, working with Designers, Engineers, GIS Management, and other support staff. The incumbent will perform cartographic displays (ESRI Suite, Autodesk, and other software programs) which support engineering and construction detailed drawings of electrical assets within a production level team environment. Additionally, the incumbent will assist in tracking project status by using web-based mapping tools (ESRI's ArcGIS Online). This position requires job dedication, team, and individual interactions with driven processes, including QA/QC, and distinct deadlines in order to provide quality to client requested products and services.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Prepare drawings using ESRI's ArcMap/ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Microstation, or other integrated electronic drawing packages as required

Assist in creating web-based mapping tools (ESRI ArcGIS Online) webapps, webmaps, and dashboards to assist the client and internal use 

Fully proficient with the placement and maintenance of graphical features in client GIS systems such as ArcFM, Intergraph FRAMME, Small World, or G-Tech.

Develop a working knowledge of client construction standards and utility information systems.

Develop and maintain drawing standards (fonts, line weights, border sheets, naming conventions, etc.) for use in the company produced drawings.

Documentation and report preparations with Microsoft and other industry specific programs such as MS Word, MS Excel, Microsoft Access Database, Fulcrum, Nitro Pro, and Adobe Acrobat.

Assist with implementing and managing field data collection tools and tasks, including the use of GPS devices and execution of post-processing.

Support the maintenance and operation of client's mapping and GIS applications by maintaining, reporting, and posting work or by gathering data to be inputted by others.

 Perform other duties as assigned by management.

COMPLEXITY OF WORK

Generally routine, established precedents; practices and procedures exist.

RELATIONSHIP OUTSIDE WORK GROUP:

Exchange of routine information only.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

N/A

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REGULAR ATTENDANCE is required.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

Required High school degree or GED.

Preferred Associates degree (AA or equivalent from two-year college or technical school).

Preferred A Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or University in GIS, Geospatial Science, Geography, Environmental Science, Computer Science and/or GIS Certification. Or equivalent technical experience.

Experience

0-2 Year(s) Experience in GIS and/or CAD programs and working in the GIS utility industry

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: 

N/A

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING: 

Moderate amount of on-the-job training to use client programs and processes.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

A. Ability to read and interpret documents such as procedure manuals, operational procedures, etc.

B. Ability to write simple correspondence.

C. Ability to effectively present information in one-on one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

A. Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume and distance.

B. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

C. Other; Understanding of spatial concepts, projections, and query operations.

REASONING ABILITY: 

A. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

B. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Self-Motivated
  • Detail-Oriented

  • Work independently

  • Team-Oriented

  • Customer Oriented

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  1. How much on the job time is spent in the following physical activities?

  • Stand 1/3 to 2/3 (Frequently)

  • Walk 1/3 to 2/3 (Frequently)

  • Sit 2/3 and more (Regularly)

  • Talk or Hear  2/3 and more (Regularly)

  • Use Hands to Feel, Handle or finger tools or controls  2/3 and more (Regularly)

  • Climb or balance  None

  • Stoop, Kneel, Crouch or crawl  Up to 1/3 (Occasionally)

  • Reach with Hands and Arms  Up to 1/3 (Occasionally)

  • Taste or Smell  None

  1. Does this job require that weight be lifted or force to be exerted? If so, how much and how often?

  • Up to 10 Pounds  Up to 1/3

  • Up to 25 Pounds  Up to 1/3

  • Up to 50 Pounds  None

  • Up to 100 Pounds  None

  • More than 100 Pounds  None

  1. Does this job have any special vision requirements? 

    Close Vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)

Distance Vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more)

Depth Perception (three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships_

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Wet, humid conditions (non- weather) Up to 1/3 (Occasionally)

  • Work near moving mechanical parts None

  • Work in high, precarious places None

  • Fumes or airborne particles None

  • Toxic or caustic chemicals None

  • Outdoor weather conditions Up to 1/3 (Occasionally)

  • Extreme cold (non-weather) None

  • Extreme Heat (non-weather) None

  • Risk of electrical shock None

  • Work with explosives None

  • Risk of radiation None

  • Vibration None

While performing this job, the noise level in the work environment is:

Moderate Noise (Examples: business office with typewriters, and or computer printer, light traffic)

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Pike Engineering is an equal opportunity employer

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled

Pike Engineering is a Non-Union Company

About Us
Founded in 1945, Pike is a leading provider of construction, repair and engineering services for electric and gas utilities, as well as telecommunications companies with a growing portfolio of turnkey renewable projects. We work with hundreds of utility clients across the country, and we continuously expand our offerings to supply our customers with the ideas, technology, experience, manpower and equipment to perform any job.
"Essential" is the one word that sums up who we are, the work we do and what our people mean to us. Each of our employees plays a critical role in ensuring that infrastructure systems are up and running when people and businesses need them.
Pike is a family-oriented workplace with a strong culture of safety, collaboration, innovation and exceptional customer service.
Engineering

Pike Engineering employees play critical roles in ensuring that essential services like electric power, gas, telephone and wireless communications are up and running when people and businesses need them. We offer engineering opportunities in transmission and distribution, substations, smart meter technologies, renewable energy, telecommunications, storm damage assessment and more.