Cartographer
What the work is
Applies scientific, mathematical and cartographic design principles to prepare and revise maps, charts and other forms of cartographic output.
Would you enjoy the work?
These are the main tasks in the official description. Mark how each one sounds to you.
- Collects, researches and analyses geographic data for map and chart creation
- Utilises geographic information systems (GIS) to organise and analyse spatial data
- Creates and updates digital maps and charts using computer software
- Prepares reports and presentations for cartographic communication
Try it
A simulation and a case study from this kind of work, set in a surveying team working in paddocks, streets and construction sites. They are fictional.
The kind of days you could have
Good days
- Your measurements close perfectly and the new building sits exactly where it was drawn
- A long boundary mystery is solved by an old map and a rusty marker in the grass
- A map you built helps a team make a decision that is obviously better
Hard days
- Standing in the sun or wind for hours while the equipment needs one more check
- Two neighbours disagree about a boundary, and you are the one holding the evidence
- A small error found late that means redoing days of work
Written by Career Calling as a general guide. Real roles vary by employer and place.
Work a mission
Step into a simulated workplace in this field, with a brief from your manager.
Description and tasks: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Occupation Standard Classification for Australia, 2024, Version 1.0 (opens another site), occupation 241231, used under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence. The skill guide above is our plain English summary.