Cartographers and photogrammetrists are fundamental in today’s mapping and geographic information systems (GIS) industry. They are tasked with the creation, maintenance, and analysis of maps and spatial data.
Their work supports various industries like urban development, warfare, ecology, and emergency response.
The following article outlines the job description, skill set required, and prospects in this area of work.
Also Read: Geotechnical Engineer Job Description: Roles, Skills, and Career Insights
Who is a Cartographer?
A cartographer is a trained professional who creates and develops different kinds of maps. Maps can be paper, digital and even interactive, thus aiding in navigation training and general education, and investigative purposes.
In order to provide innovative and good looking maps, cartographers utilize information gathered from field surveys, satellite images, and Geographic Information System (GIS) databases.
Who is a Photogrammetrist?
A photogrammetrist is someone who interprets and analyzes aerial photographs and satellite images to gather geospatial information.
As a specialist using the technique of photogrammetry to extract distances and heights from images, they capture the required data for significant topographic maps and 3D model representation.
In their work, photogrammetrists are crucial in urban development, forestry, and environmental supervision, among other professions.
What Do Cartographers and Photogrammetrists Do?
Although both cartographers and photogrammetrists deal with geographic data, the scope of each profession differs slightly.
Cartographers are responsible for the design and production of maps and a more complex user requirement, ensuring visual appeal, accuracy and user focus of the map.
Road maps or certain thematic maps that point out population densities or climatic patterns for example are made from their conceptualization.
Most of the time, they will need to employ great deals of artistry to be able to transform difficult pieces of information into something the ordinary person can understand.
On the other hand, Photogrammetrist deal with the interpretation of aerial photographs or satellite images and even LiDAR data (Light Detection and Ranging) to construct accurate outlines of objects best in the form of three-dimensional maps.
They do a lot of extracting and processing spatial information with the help of computers, they are typically found in construction, defense, environment, and city planning industries.
Together, these fields form the backbone of geospatial data visualization.
Key Responsibilities of Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Responsibilities of a Cartographer
- Producing maps for certain activities like teaching, navigation, or subjects in focus- its design, production, and amendments. Â
- Combining and studying information from questionnaires, field trips, remote sensing, and satellites. Â
- Building models of certain predefined standards and ensuring that they are handy and accurate. Â
- Working with geographers, other researchers, and even specialists in GIS. Â
- Improving the design and usability of the maps by using cartographic imaging software. Â
Responsibilities of a Photogrammetrist
- Analyzing earth images taken from above to find particular delineated features. Â
- Designing contours maps or plans of an area with detailed features or structures of landscape. Â
- Using drone or LiDAR technologies for distance measurements of objects, heights of terrains, and details pertaining to construction. Â
- Estimating geospatial data accuracy for further exploitation in numerous fields. Â
- Cooperating with specialists knowledgeable in GIS for integration into larger projects. Â
These two professionals depend on GIS technology for the automation of map construction as they ensure the provision of precision in the final product.
Other Tasks and Duties of Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
1. Data Collection and Analysis
Cartographers and photogrammetrists obtain geographic information from multiple sources, namely satellite photos, aerial photographs, and GIS files. After collecting this data, they process it to make credible and educational maps.
2. Map Design and Production
With specialized software such as ArcGIS or AutoCAD, these experts create maps with appealing visuals as per the requirements. For ease-of-use, they set the map’s scale, symbols, and colors.
3. Updating Existing Maps
Time passes and geographic features and structures change. Cartographers and photogrammetrists have to think of plans to revise maps and accurately add new changes for various users over a range of fields.
4. 3D Mapping and Modeling
Using digital elevation models (DEMs) and LiDAR based photogrammetry, photogrammetrists model terrains and landscapes in 3D. These models are essential for engineering projects, disaster management, and environmental assessments.
5. Interpreting Geospatial Data
They extract patterns, development, and relationships within geographic data. This can be helpful for disaster response, resource allocation, and city planning.
6. Employing GIS Technology
GIS technology is often used to ensure the proper storage, management and analysis of geographic data. Cartographers and photographers integrate multi-layered data using GIS for more in-depth spatial analysis.
Necessary Skills for Cartographer and Photogrammetrist
1. Technical Proficiency
Knowing how to operate mapping applications like ArcGIS, QGIS and AutoCAD among others is very important. Experience with remote sensing devices and photography tools such as ERDAS IMAGINE II are also helpful.
Other Technical skills include:
- Data Analysis: The ability to interpret complex datasets and geospatial information is critical.
- Graphic Design: For cartographers, skills in Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop can enhance visual presentation.
- Mathematics: Geometry, trigonometry, and calculus are often part of daily workflows.
2. Analytical and Problem Solving Abilities
Understanding spatial data and complex mapping and solving issues is important. Accurate interpretation of geographic information is vital for cartographers and photogrammetrists.
3. Focus
Map making requires a high level of accuracy. Small mistakes can yield high discrepancies towards the geospatial data representation.
4. Interpersonal Communication
These specialists also work with building surveyors, design engineers, and government bodies which require communication.
Different users often have different requirements. Detailed communication ensures that maps are tailored to individual needs.
Tools and Technologies in Cartography and Photogrammetry
Work done in these fields is powered by cutting technologies. Here are some tools used by professionals in these fields:
Software
- ArcGIS: It is a powerful GIS software package for spatial analysis and map making.
- Erdas Imagine: A specialized package for remote sensing and image processing.
- Makautodest Map 3D: A GIS software designed for incorporating CAD drawings into GIS data.
- Global Mapper: Economical GIS software famous for data manipulation and spatial analysis.
Hardware
- Drones and UAVs: For aerial imaging and scanning with LiDAR.
- High Definition Cameras: For detailed photographs in photogrammetry.
- GPS Equipment: Needed during field work when collecting data for geographic information systems (GIS) maps.
Continuously expanding technological development increases the productivity of cartographers and photogrammetrists, which introduces a new element of dynamism to these professions.
Career Path And Job Opportunities
Both of these careers are highly rewarding in terms of advancement, diversity, and pay.
Entry Level Positions
In the initial stages of your career, you might find yourself in positions like GIS technician, surveying aide, or junior cartographer. These roles help you learn to use GIS tools and provide you with data analysis skills.
Intermediate Level Positions
Some of the mid roles are project specific, such as urban planner, environmental analyst, or regional development advisor. You’ll likely be responsible for managing a team and overseeing more complex projects.
Advanced Roles
Seasoned professionals may progress to roles like geospatial analyst, lead cartographer, or photogrammetry specialist. At this stage, you could focus on research, innovation, or managerial responsibilities.
Industries Hiring Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
You’ll find opportunities in:
- Government Agencies: For city planning or disaster response.
- Construction Companies: To assist in land surveys and project planning.
- Tech and Software Firms: Working on AI-driven mapping technologies or GPS software.
- Environmental Organizations: Supporting conservation efforts through accurate mapping.
- Military and Defense: Creating tactical maps for strategic operations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this space is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, keeping pace with the average for all jobs.
The median annual wage for these roles is around $70,000 but can increase significantly with experience and expertise.
How to Become a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist
If this career sounds appealing, follow these tips to get started
- Earn a Degree: A bachelor’s degree in geography, cartography, engineering or even GIS usually suffices.
- Gain Experience: Look for internships or a first job where you can work with GIS applications and data analysis.
- Get Certified: Possessing certification in GIS or photogrammetry is often an added advantage.Â
- Stay Updated: Registering for workshops and courses is critical to ensure skills are renewed continuously.Â
Final Thoughts on Cartographer / Photogrammetrist Job Description
Maps have existed for hundreds of years, but their modern, data-based counterparts require more and more skilled labor with each iteration of technology.
From emergency management to smart city planning, the work done by cartographers and photogrammetrists is crucial towards how we comprehend and engage with the world.
You get to enjoy the perks and rewards of one career that truly matters.
If you are curious about geospatial technology, have a passion for critical thinking, and possess the right amount of creativity, this is certainly a path worth pursuing.