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Topographic Map Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SOLTESZ

Survey Field Technician I

Waldorf, MD · On-site

The Field Technician position is responsible for assisting with construction stake out, boundary surveys and topographic mapping; assisting in the operation of a total station, data collector, GPS ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

AMT Engineering

SUE Field Technician III

Washington, DC

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Ability to read and understand directional maps, topographic maps and various types of utility prints * Ability to use and interpret various pieces of electromagnetic utility locating equipment

AMT Engineering

SUE Field Technician III

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Ability to read and understand directional maps, topographic maps and various types of utility prints * Ability to use and interpret various pieces of electromagnetic utility locating equipment

Stantec

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Orienteering using a compass USGS topographic maps, plan maps, iPads enabled with GPS location services and supplemented by a Trimble R1 GPS receiver, and photography. * Experience with digital data ...

Stantec

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Orienteering using a compass USGS topographic maps, plan maps, iPads enabled with GPS location services and supplemented by a Trimble R1 GPS receiver, and photography. * Experience with digital data ...

AMT Engineering

SUE Field Technician

Washington, DC

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Ability to read and understand directional maps, topographic maps and various types of utility prints * Ability to use and interpret various pieces of electromagnetic utility locating equipment

IMEG

Crew Chief | Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA

$24 - $30/hr

... topographic surveys, subsurface utility surveys, geodetic and boundary surveys, right-of-way mapping, and land acquisition services IMEG's survey team serves both private and public clients ...

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Topographic Map information

See Washington salary details

$13

$28

$54

How much do topographic map jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for topographic map in Washington is $28.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $33.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a topographic map?

A topographic map is a detailed, accurate representation of the Earth's surface, showing natural and man-made features. These maps use contour lines to depict elevation changes and the shape of the terrain, making it easy to see hills, valleys, and slopes. Topographic maps also include features such as rivers, forests, roads, and buildings, making them useful for activities like hiking, planning, and engineering. They are essential tools for geographers, surveyors, and outdoor enthusiasts to understand landscape and elevation.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

Land surveyors, including specialized roles like geospatial or photogrammetry surveyors, tend to earn higher salaries due to advanced skills and certifications. Experienced surveyors working in urban or industrial environments, often with GIS or CAD expertise, typically have higher earning potential. Certification and experience significantly impact salary levels in surveying careers.

What is a Topographic Map job?

A Topographic Map job involves creating, analyzing, and interpreting detailed maps that represent the Earth's surface, including elevation, terrain features, and natural or man-made landmarks. Professionals in this field use geographic information systems (GIS) and surveying techniques to collect and process spatial data. These maps are essential for fields like engineering, urban planning, environmental management, and outdoor navigation.

What are some common challenges faced when working as a topographic map technician, and how can they be addressed?

Topographic map technicians often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy in diverse terrains, managing large volumes of geospatial information, and adapting to rapidly changing technology. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with the latest mapping software, maintaining meticulous data validation processes, and collaborating closely with field surveyors and GIS specialists. Effective communication within a multidisciplinary team is crucial for resolving discrepancies and delivering precise, up-to-date topographic maps for clients and stakeholders.

What careers use topographic maps?

Topographic maps are used in careers such as cartographers, geologists, civil engineers, environmental scientists, and outdoor recreation professionals. These roles require skills in map reading, GIS software, and fieldwork to analyze terrain, plan projects, or conduct research. Familiarity with topographic features and map interpretation is essential in these fields.

What is the difference between Topographic Map vs Cartographer?

AspectTopographic MapCartographer
Primary FocusCreating detailed maps showing terrain features, elevations, and landformsDesigning, producing, and updating various types of maps, including topographic maps
Required SkillsGeographic knowledge, map reading, GIS skillsGIS proficiency, cartographic design, spatial analysis
Work EnvironmentField surveys, GIS labs, mapping officesOffice-based, GIS centers, fieldwork for data collection
Industry UsageUsed by surveyors, engineers, environmental agenciesEmployed by mapping companies, government agencies, urban planners

While a topographic map is a detailed representation of terrain features, a cartographer is a professional who creates and updates these maps. Cartographers use skills like GIS and cartographic design to produce accurate maps, including topographic maps, for various industries and purposes.

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

To thrive as a Topographic Mapper, you need expertise in cartography, geospatial analysis, and a background in geography or a related field. Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems), GPS technology, and mapping software like ArcGIS is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure accuracy and quality in map production. These skills are vital for creating precise topographic maps that support land use planning, engineering, and environmental management.

Is cartographer a good career?

A cartographer creates topographic maps and geographic representations, often requiring skills in GIS software, surveying, and spatial analysis. The profession offers opportunities in government, environmental planning, and engineering, with a typical work environment involving fieldwork and computer-based tasks. Job prospects depend on industry demand and geographic location, with a need for relevant education and technical certifications.

What is the highest paying geography job?

Topographic map specialists or geospatial analysts working in roles such as GIS managers or remote sensing directors tend to have the highest salaries in geography-related fields. These positions often require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience, with salaries varying based on industry, location, and level of expertise.
What are the most commonly searched types of Topographic Map jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Topographic Map jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Topographic Map jobs in Washington? For Topographic Map jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Topographic Map jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Topographic Map jobs in Washington are:
Topographic Map jobs near you
Infographic showing various Topographic Map job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,529 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
Cartographer- Maritime GIS Analyst (Hiring Event)

Cartographer- Maritime GIS Analyst (Hiring Event)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Springfield, VA

$85K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 535 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

Cartographers acquire, compile, evaluate, and review geospatial data to develop cartography products and/or data holdings in support of mission requirements for national security, military operations, and humanitarian relief. They extract, attribute, format, manipulate, and symbolize geospatial information in accordance with NGA and international standards, typically specializing in a particular c

Qualifications:

MANDATORY QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: For this particular job, applicants must meet all competencies reflected under the Mandatory Qualification Criteria to include education (if required). Online resumes must demonstrate qualification by providing specific examples and associated results, in response to the announcement's mandatory criteria specified in this vacancy announcement:
Experience communicating to leadership and other stakeholders through written, visual, and/or verbal reporting and presentation
Experience working collaboratively as part of a team to ensure that project goals and deadlines are met.
Experience extracting and editing geospatial data using a Geographic Information System (GIS).
Experience applying principles and techniques for map creation, application, and interpretation.
Experience creating and editing maps or charts to specifications using a GIS.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: A. Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Cartography or a major that included, or was supplemented by, at least 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of coursework in Cartography and/or directly related Sciences and Mathematics. Coursework may include, but is not limited to, Astronomy, Cartography, Computer Science, Forestry, Geodesy, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Land Surveying, Photogrammetry, Physical and Geological Oceanography, Physical Geography, and Remote Sensing. Computer software classes associated with current technology, GIS courses, and information management classes may also be counted. The 30 semester (45 quarter) hours must have included at least 6 semester (9 quarter), but not more than 15 (22 quarter), hours of college level non-business mathematics or statistics (i.e., college level algebra, trigonometry, calculus, or scientific mathematics or statistics requiring equivalent college-level courses as prerequisites). -OR- B. Combination of Education and Experience: A minimum of 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of coursework as listed in option A, plus applied experience in Cartography that includes the use of current GIS tools, or a related field that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the duties associated with this work. As a rule, every 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of coursework is equivalent to one year of experience. Candidates should show that their combination of education and experience totals 4 years. -OR- C. Experience: A minimum of 4 years experience in Cartography that includes the use of current GIS tools, or a related field that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the duties associated with this work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT: Distinguish principal colors and shades/hues of principal colors; Near visual acuity of 20/60 or better with or without corrective lenses

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: In addition to the mandatory qualifications, experience in the following is desired:
Experience creating or administrating GIS databases and/or tools
Experience using GIS techniques and applications to enhance analysis or produce and maintain geospatial intelligence (GEOINT).
Experience producing an NGA topographic map 1:50k, NAVPLAN Chart, Evasion Chart, and/or Joint Operation Graphic to specifications.
Experience using scripting languages, such as but not limited to Python, to automate data collection or map production processes.
Experience using quality assurance and/or quality control review procedures to review geospatial data and map graphics.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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