Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Cartographer is a professional who designs and produces maps of various types, combining scientific and artistic skills to represent geographic data visually. They use geographic information systems (GIS) and other technologies to create maps for educational, governmental, or business purposes.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 5.0% (above average)
Annual job openings: 1,000
Direct AI exposure: 8% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 84% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $81K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $54K per year | $66K per year | $81K per year | $102K per year | $127K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $30K above the national average. | ||||
Cartographers typically work in an office setting, often for government agencies, architectural firms, or private mapping companies. The role involves working on computers with mapping software, as well as potential fieldwork to gather data. Collaboration with geographers, surveyors, and engineers is common.
Cartography is a field that merges creativity with analytical skills, requiring a balance between aesthetic design and accurate representation of data. Modern cartographers rely heavily on technology, especially GIS, to create detailed and informative maps. They must be adept at interpreting geographic data and converting it into a format that is both useful and accessible to users.
The role of a cartographer has evolved significantly with advancements in technology. Today's cartographers must be proficient in various software programs and be able to handle large datasets. They often work on diverse projects, from urban planning and resource management to the creation of educational materials and navigation tools.
Communication skills are important in this field, as cartographers need to understand the requirements of clients or stakeholders and translate these into functional maps. Attention to detail is crucial, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team on projects.
Most cartographer positions require a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, geomatics, surveying, or a related field, equating to about 4 years of post-secondary education. Advanced positions or specializations may require additional education or certification.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
