How to become a cartographer & surveyor
Design and create maps and charts using scientific and mathematical methods for all natural and manufactured features.
Pathways to this career
- Complete an accredited bachelor degree in surveying, spatial science or geographical information to become a qualified cartographer and surveyor.
- To advance your career or run a business as a cartographer & surveyor, you should get a Surveyor Licence from the industry board in your local state or territory.
- Research any industry bodies or associations to stay-up-to date with the latest news and information in your chosen field of expertise.
What does a cartographer do?
Cartographers and Surveyors design, create and modify maps and charts using scientific and mathematical methods. They map out and accurately position all natural and manufactured features such as regions of land, features, buildings, coastal areas, and underground structures.
Duties and tasks
- Analyse data, compile information and prepare reports regarding land use and survey results.
- Inform and supervise Surveyors, Architects and Engineers of technical data requirements for scaling maps and spatial information tools.
- Organise and manage cartographic technicians in the creation and revision of maps, managing automated spatial information systems to provide accurate information.
- Research and develop new methods and updates for surveying and measuring land areas and information systems such as photogrammetric, cadastral maps and land information systems.
- Specify positioning of requested areas such as coastlines, marine floors and producing digital format of data.
- Use a variety of digital and graphic tools such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, current maps and records, survey records and reports to project map manuscripts.
- Work with governments, companies and organisations to plan and provide information for land subdivision projects, site building plans and survey reports.
Industry bodies
- Mapping Sciences Institute, Australia
- Spatial Industries Business Association
- Surveying & Spatial Science Institute
Related jobs
- Surveyor
- Geologist geophysicist
- Soil scientist
- Environmental scientist
- Cartographic drafter
- Geographer
- Mapping scientist
- Spatial information scientist
- Surveyor
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