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Mapping Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waymo

Machine Learning Engineer - Mapping

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$204K - $259K/yr

The Waymo Mapping team's goal is to build a high resolution map of the world to support safe autonomous driving. We work on creating the map using a combination of automatic and manual techniques and ...

Waymo

Machine Learning Engineer - Mapping

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$204K - $259K/yr

The Waymo Mapping team's goal is to build a high resolution map of the world to support safe autonomous driving. We work on creating the map using a combination of automatic and manual techniques and ...

Zoox

Software Engineer - 3D Mapping

Foster City, CA

$189K - $227K/yr

The 3D Mapping team is seeking a Software Engineer to help tackle all the challenging mapping scenarios our cities have to offer, including highway mapping and mapping under difficult environment ...

Zoox

Software Engineer - 3D Mapping

Foster City, CA · On-site

The 3D Mapping team is seeking a Software Engineer to help tackle all the challenging mapping scenarios our cities have to offer, including highway mapping and mapping under difficult environment ...

Zoox

Software Engineer - 3D Mapping

Foster City, CA · On-site

$189K - $227K/yr

The 3D Mapping team is seeking a Software Engineer to help tackle all the challenging mapping scenarios our cities have to offer, including highway mapping and mapping under difficult environment ...

Waymo

Program Manager, Mapping Operations

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$51.45 - $62.99/hr

The Mapping Operations team is responsible for building, validating, and continuously improving the high-definition maps that power Waymo's autonomous driving system. The team ensures that the ...

Medtronic

EP Mapping Specialist, CAS

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

Join Medtronic as an EP Mapping Specialist and be at the forefront of transforming lives through advanced medical technology! In this dynamic role, you'll work alongside a collaborative team of ...

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All JobsMapping JobsMapping Jobs in California

Mapping information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$151K

How much do mapping jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for mapping in California is $150,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,000.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mapping Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mapping Specialist, you need expertise in geography, spatial analysis, cartography, and typically a degree in geography, GIS, or a related field. Proficiency with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software such as ArcGIS or QGIS, remote sensing tools, and relevant certifications like GISP are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you interpret data accurately and present findings effectively. These skills ensure the production of precise, reliable maps and spatial data critical for decision-making across industries.

How do mapping professionals typically collaborate with other departments in a project environment?

Mapping professionals often work closely with teams in engineering, environmental science, urban planning, and IT to ensure that spatial data is accurately integrated into broader project objectives. Collaboration usually involves sharing geospatial data, coordinating site surveys, and participating in cross-functional meetings to align on project requirements and timelines. Effective communication skills are essential, as mapping specialists often translate complex technical data into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders. This collaborative approach not only enhances project outcomes but also provides mapping professionals with opportunities to broaden their expertise and advance their careers.

How to get a job in mapping?

To get a job in mapping, develop skills in geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, and spatial analysis. Obtain relevant certifications such as GIS Professional (GISP) and gain experience with tools like ArcGIS or QGIS. A bachelor's degree in geography, environmental science, or related fields is often required, along with a strong understanding of data management and spatial data collection methods.

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

In mapping-related roles, high earnings can be achieved through freelance GIS consulting, specialized cartography, or remote mapping project management, often requiring advanced skills in GIS software, data analysis, and industry experience. These positions may pay $10,000 or more monthly for experienced professionals working independently or for companies, especially in niche markets or with high-value clients.

What is the job role of mapping?

The job role of mapping involves creating, analyzing, and maintaining geographic or spatial representations using tools like GIS software and cartographic techniques. Map professionals interpret data to produce accurate maps for navigation, planning, or analysis, often requiring attention to detail and spatial reasoning skills.

What are mapping jobs?

Mapping jobs involve the creation, analysis, and interpretation of maps and spatial data. Professionals in this field use geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing technology, and cartographic skills to collect, visualize, and manage geographical information. These jobs can be found in areas such as urban planning, environmental management, transportation, and surveying. Mapping specialists help organizations make informed decisions based on spatial data, often working with both digital and physical maps.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Mapping Job?

The qualifications to get a mapping job depend on the type of work you do. If you are in the geography or GIS fields, you typically need an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as GIS or geography, or a certificate in GIS along with other coursework. In data mapping, employers usually require a bachelor’s degree in database architecture, computer science, or information technology. Additional requirements for mapping jobs include strong analytical problem-solving and organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to be on the road for long periods to travel to remote sites.

Is cartography a good career?

Cartography is a specialized field within mapping that involves creating and analyzing maps using GIS software and spatial data. It offers opportunities in government, environmental planning, and technology sectors, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The career can be stable and rewarding for those interested in geography and spatial analysis.

What is the difference between Mapping vs Cartographer?

AspectMappingCartographer
CredentialsGIS certifications, relevant degreesGIS certifications, cartography training
Work EnvironmentGIS offices, fieldwork, remoteField surveys, GIS labs, offices
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for data visualizationSpecialized in map creation and design
Search IntentMapping jobs, GIS mapping rolesCartographer jobs, map designer roles

Mapping involves creating visual representations of spatial data, often using GIS technology. Cartographers focus specifically on designing and producing detailed maps, combining artistic and technical skills. While all cartographers are mappers, not all mappers are necessarily cartographers. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles in the GIS and mapping industry.

More about Mapping jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mapping jobs in California? The most popular types of Mapping jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Mapping jobs in California? For Mapping jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mapping jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mapping jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mapping jobs? Cities in California with the most Mapping job openings:
Mapping jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mapping job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,009 per year, or $72.1 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer, Mapping & Localization

Senior Software Engineer, Mapping & Localization

PlusAI

Santa Clara, CA

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Software Engineer to join our Mapping & Localization team. In this role, you will be responsible for enhancing both the online and offline components of our mapping infrastructure, including online map interface, map version control, tile-based LiDAR map generation, and large-scale map management. You will play a critical role in supporting runtime map queries for key modules such as perception, localization, prediction, and planning.
Responsibilities:
  • Design and optimize scalable interfaces for online lane and map representation.
  • Improve cross-module map interfaces to support perception, prediction, and planning pipelines.
  • Develop and enhance systems for large-scale map deployment, including offline map generation, version control, and online tile-based LiDAR map loading.
  • Maintain and evolve the mapping watchdog and event mining systems to monitor system health and anomalies.
  • Enhance the mapping CI system to support robust development and deployment workflows.
  • Optimize performance of offline 3D reconstruction pipelines.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to understand system-wide dependencies and performance needs across perception, planning, control, simulation, and infrastructure.
  • Work with the operations team to define requirements for data collection, preprocessing, labeling, and validation.
  • Ensure that your work is performed in accordance with the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) requirements and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
  • Ensure team compliance with QMS, monitor quality, and drive process improvements.
Required Skills:
  • BS or MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in developing large-scale, real-time C++ systems.
  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ and understanding of multi-threading, multiprocessing, and operating systems, e.g. ROS.
  • Solid foundation in data structures, algorithms, and software design principles.
  • Familiarity with large-scale map data pipelines and distributed systems.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD systems, and maintaining production-grade infrastructure.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated, comfortable operating without direct supervision.
Preferred Skills:
  • Hands-on experience with mapping and localization algorithms, such as LiDAR/Visual Odometry, SLAM, or Kalman filtering.
  • Experience working on offline 3D reconstruction systems.
Our compensations (cash and equity) are determined based on the position, your location, qualifications, and experience.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.