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Cartographer Job Description

What does a Cartographer do?

A cartographer is a professional who is responsible for the creation of maps for a range of purposes, including navigation, surveying, governmental purposes and scientific research. They are involved in collecting and analyzing geographic information from various sources such as surveys, satellite imagery, aerial photographs and fieldwork. The cartographer then takes this information and uses it to create visually appealing maps that accurately depict the geography of a particular area, as well as any physical or man-made features such as water bodies, roads, buildings and topography. Cartography requires a combination of technical skills and creativity, as well as an excellent knowledge of geography and map-making software.

Our Cartographer job description includes the Cartographer responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Cartographer Example


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If you need an example job description for a Cartographer download the one below, alternatively we have many other Science job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does a Cartographer do?

Cartographer
The Cartographer is responsible for creating accurate maps and other geographic representations. They will collect, analyze, and interpret data to compile the information into clear and precise maps. They must have excellent knowledge of geography and be highly skilled in the use of specialised computer software. They must have the ability to work independently and pay close attention to detail. Responsibilities include:

• Gathering and analyzing data to create maps
• Interpreting aerial photographs
• Utilizing Global Positioning System (GPS) data
• Creating digital maps and other geographic representations
• Analyzing geographic information to identify patterns or trends
• Working closely with geographers, surveyors, and other professionals
• Ensuring accuracy of maps and other geographic representations
• Maintaining and updating existing maps and geographic databases

Cartographer Role Purpose

The purpose of a Cartographer is to create detailed maps and diagrams to accurately represent geographical locations, physical features, infrastructure and other spatial data. This includes designing and producing maps for a variety of purposes, such as navigation, land management and urban planning. Cartographers analyse data from satellite images and aerial photographs, as well as surveys and field visits, to create accurate maps. They use a variety of software to produce the maps and must be able to interpret and refine the data to ensure that it is accurately portrayed. Cartographers must also be able to communicate the results of their work to a variety of stakeholders and collaborate with other team members when required.

Cartographer Role

Cartographers use maps and geographic data to create visual representations of the Earth's surface. They analyse geographical information and use specialist software to create accurate, detailed maps and plans, including those used for navigation, urban planning and natural resource management.

Cartographer Duties

  • Create maps and charts of geographical areas
  • Manage data related to geographical areas
  • Conduct research to update existing maps and charts
  • Plan field trips to survey areas of interest
  • Use GIS software to plot data
  • Coordinate with other cartographers or geographic information systems specialists

Cartographer Requirements

  • Ability to create detailed maps and plans
  • Proficiency in using surveying instruments such as theodolites, levels and EDMs
  • Familiarity with GIS software and its tools
  • Excellent mathematical and analytical skills
  • Ability to interpret aerial photography and satellite images
  • Knowledge of GPS and digital mapping systems

Cartographer Skills

  • Excellent map reading and navigation
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent organisational and planning skills
  • Ability to work as part of a team
  • Excellent IT and data processing skills

Cartographer Personal Traits

  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Able to work to deadlines
  • Good problem solving and analytical skills
  • Familiarity with advanced mapping software

How to write a Cartographer Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write a Cartographer Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise a Cartographer Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting a Cartographer Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire a Cartographer

Once you have selected your Job Description download it or convert it to a Job Advert. From here you can post/advertise your job across our network of job boards. If you wish to use the job description for a CV Template click through for advice and Convert to a CV

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