Cartographer Career Description
Cartographers provide information about the earth in the easily understandable and usable form of a map. Cartographers work closely with surveyors, geologists and similar professionals and is involved in conservation, planning and development.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
The maps cartographers produce, are compiled from various sources, such as aerial photographs, field records, historical manuscripts, other maps and statistical reports.
Cartographers undertake the following functions: the processing of source material for map production, the application of photolithography and photographic processing techniques in map production and the application of computer technology to map production.
Cartographers are also trained in basic surveying and in photogrammetry (the science of accurately plotting maps and plans from photographs taken with calibrated cameras, usually from the air, but occasionally also from ground stations).
The types of maps produced by cartographers depend on their employers and the purpose for which the maps are required. These kinds of maps include, amongst others: topographical maps, maritime charts, aeronautical charts and maps, climatic maps, road maps and street plans, tourist maps, geological and geographical maps and town and regional structure plans.
In conventional map production cartographers are concerned with different but related map production techniques, including scribing, colour separation, type layout and printing procedures.
The application of computer technology to the cartographer's work is becoming increasingly important. The introduction of computer assisted mapping and geographic information systems has increased the cartographer's production significantly.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Prospective cartographers should have an aptitude for drawing, good spatial perception and must be able to work with detail. An interest in Geography is recommended.
Where can I work?
Opportunities for employment exist mostly in government departments and at provincial governments. Larger municipalities and some private undertakings also employ cartographers.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Self-employed cartographers can work on contract basis for persons or institutions in need of their services.
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