How to Be Cartography Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Cartography technicians play a vital role in the creation of maps. They use geographic information systems (GIS) software to manipulate, analyze and store data, as well as produce maps. Cartography technicians have a strong understanding of the principles and techniques of cartography and geographic information science, which allows them to accurately interpret data and create maps that are accurate and easy to read.

The accuracy of the maps produced by cartography technicians can affect many areas of society, such as transportation planning, land-use planning, emergency response, natural resource management, and more. The importance of cartography technicians is undeniable; without their expertise, accurate mapping of the world would be impossible.

Steps How to Become

1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED. Cartography technicians typically need to have a high school diploma or GED in order to obtain an entry-level position.
2. Pursue a Certificate or Associate Degree. Most cartography technicians have some postsecondary education, such as a certificate or an associate degree in cartography or geographic information systems (GIS).
3. Develop Technical Skills. Cartography technicians need to have knowledge of a number of different software programs and applications, including ArcGIS and MapInfo.
4. Obtain On-the-Job Training. Many employers provide their cartography technicians with additional on-the-job training once they are hired.
5. Consider Certification. While certification is not typically required, it may be beneficial to those who want to show potential employers that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to work as a cartography technician.

The ideal and qualified Cartography Technician needs to have a strong understanding of GIS software, such as Esri ArcGIS, as well as experience with CAD systems and cartographic design. They must have excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, coupled with a keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in their work. they should possess good communication skills to effectively collaborate with colleagues, as well as an understanding of the principles of cartographic design and the ability to make creative decisions.

All of these skills can be acquired through a combination of formal education, on-the-job experience, and professional development opportunities. Having these qualifications can help a Cartography Technician be successful in their role and provide valuable insights through the production of high-quality maps and other cartographic products.

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Job Description

1. Create and maintain digital and hard copy cartographic, geospatial, and related data.
2. Develop and execute cartographic models and processes.
3. Collect, analyze, and interpret geographic and demographic data.
4. Prepare maps and other graphic representations of geographic information.
5. Research and document data sources used in the production of cartographic products.
6. Design, develop, and maintain GIS databases.
7. Utilize cartographic software/tools such as ArcGIS, MapInfo, Global Mapper, and QGIS.
8. Provide technical assistance to colleagues and other users of maps, geographic data, and related products.
9. Generate maps for public use in support of city, county, state, and federal government initiatives.
10. Assess customer needs, develop proposals, and deliver presentations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of cartographic principles and procedures
2. Ability to develop and interpret maps, charts and diagrams
3. Proficiency in GIS software applications
4. Familiarity with aerial photography, satellite imagery and remote sensing
5. Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
6. Attention to detail and accuracy
7. Ability to follow instructions and complete tasks on time
8. Knowledge of geographic and topographic data
9. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
10. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment

Having strong cartography technician skills is essential when it comes to creating and maintaining maps. These skills include a deep understanding of geographic information systems (GIS) software, map design principles, and spatial analysis. A cartography technician needs to be able to read, interpret, and analyze data sets in order to accurately create maps.

By understanding how different data sets and mapping parameters interact with each other, they are able to create maps that are both accurate and visually appealing. they need to be able to communicate complex ideas and concepts effectively, both verbally and in writing, in order to explain the data they are analyzing. Finally, they must be able to design and update maps quickly and accurately in order to meet deadlines.

All of these skills allow a cartography technician to create high-quality maps that provide valuable insights into the data and help inform decision-making.

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Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have with cartography software?
• How familiar are you with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?
• What do you feel is the most important aspect of cartography?
• Describe a project you have worked on that involved cartography.
• What techniques do you use to create accurate and visually appealing maps?
• How do you stay on top of the latest cartography trends and technologies?
• What challenges have you encountered when creating maps?
• How do you ensure that the data you use in your maps is accurate and up-to-date?
• How do you handle tight deadlines when creating maps?
• What do you think sets you apart as a cartography technician?

Common Tools in Industry

1. GIS Software. GIS software is used to create maps and analyze geospatial data. (eg: ArcGIS, QGIS)
2. GPS. GPS systems are used to track location and navigation. (eg: Garmin, TomTom)
3. Plotters. Plotters are used to print large-scale maps and plans. (eg: HP DesignJet, Canon imagePrograf)
4. Map Digitization. Map digitization is used to convert paper maps into digital files. (eg: ArcGIS Collector, GeoJot+)
5. Aerial Photography. Aerial photography is used to capture images of the earth’s surface from an aircraft or satellite. (eg: DigitalGlobe, Google Earth Pro)
6. Drawing Software. Drawing software is used to create illustrations and diagrams for maps. (eg: Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk AutoCAD)
7. Cartographic Presentation Software. Cartographic presentation software is used to create interactive maps and stories. (eg: Esri Story Maps, Google Maps Platform)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM)
2. American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)
3. Association of American Geographers (AAG)
4. Cartography and Geographic Information Society (CaGIS)
5. International Cartographic Association (ICA)
6. International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS)
7. National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE)
8. National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC)
9. United States Geological Survey (USGS)
10. Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA).

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Common Important Terms

1. GIS (Geographic Information System). A computer system for capturing, storing, analyzing and managing data related to positions on Earth's surface.
2. Cartography. The art and science of creating maps.
3. GPS (Global Positioning System). A system of satellites and receivers used to determine the position and time of a person or object on or near the Earth’s surface.
4. Digitizing. Process of converting paper maps into digital format.
5. CAD (Computer-Aided Design). Software used to create detailed two- or three-dimensional designs.
6. Remote Sensing. The use of aerial or satellite imagery to identify and measure characteristics of the Earth's surface.
7. Spatial Analysis. The process of examining spatial relationships between geographic features to identify patterns and trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cartography Technician?

A Cartography Technician is an individual who specializes in producing maps and other geographical products using data analysis and mapping software.

What skills are required to be a successful Cartography Technician?

A successful Cartography Technician should have strong computer and analytical skills, as well as knowledge of cartographic principles and techniques. They should also have a good eye for detail and be familiar with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

What type of organization employs Cartography Technicians?

Cartography Technicians are employed by a wide variety of organizations, including government agencies, consulting firms, universities, and private companies.

How much does a Cartography Technician typically earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Cartography Technicians in the United States is around $54,000 per year.

What type of degree is needed to become a Cartography Technician?

Most employers require a minimum of an Associate degree in cartography, geography, or a related field. However, some employers may require a Bachelor's degree in one of these fields.

What are jobs related with Cartography Technician?

• Field Geographer
• Geological Surveyor
• Surveying Technician
• Geographer
• Environmental Geographer
• Earth Science Teacher
• Archaeological Surveyor
• Oceanography Professor
• Geomatics Technician
• Land Surveyor

Web Resources

• Cartographic Technician – State Cartographer's Office – … www.sco.wisc.edu
• Job: Cartographic Technician, Dept. of Agriculture (Portland, OR) sites.evergreen.edu
• Cardiographic Technician - Polaris Career Center www.polaris.edu