Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Cartographers and photogrammetrists research, study and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. They may work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and may design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. They may also collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.
Among the various tasks performed by cartographers and photogrammetrists, some include collecting geographic data, producing visual representations of data, examining and compiling data from ground surveys, reports, aerial photographs, and satellite pictures, preparing and altering trace maps, charts, tables, detailed diagrams and three-dimensional optical models of terrain using stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment, studying legal records to lay down boundaries of local, national and international properties and examining final compositions to guarantee precision.
Cartographers and photogrammetrists require knowledge in various fields such as geography, computer and electronics, the English language, designing (information of design methods, tools, and principles involved in manufacturing of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models) and mathematics (algebra, calculus, statistics, geometry and their applications).
To excel in cartographer job in India, one must possess writing, communication, active learning approach, judgement, decision-making power, monitoring, coordination, time management and social perceptiveness skills.
The work environment of cartographers and photogrammetrists is such that they spend much of their time in offices, whereas certain jobs require extensive travel to locations that are being mapped. The cartographer salary in India depends on the experience and skills of the candidate.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Geography
- Ph.D. Urban Planning
- M.Sc. Geoinformatics
- B.Tech Civil Engineering
- B.Sc. Geographical Sciences
Tasks
- Identify, scale, and orient geodetic points, elevations, and other planimetric or topographic features, applying standard mathematical formulas.
- Collect information about specific features of the Earth, using aerial photography and other digital remote sensing techniques.
- Revise existing maps and charts, making all necessary corrections and adjustments.
- Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps.
- Inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Determine map content and layout, as well as production specifications such as scale, size, projection, and colors, and direct production to ensure that specifications are followed.
- Examine and analyze data from ground surveys, reports, aerial photographs, and satellite images to prepare topographic maps, aerial-photograph mosaics, and related charts.
- Select aerial photographic and remote sensing techniques and plotting equipment needed to meet required standards of accuracy.
- Delineate aerial photographic detail, such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features, using precision stereoplotting apparatus or drafting instruments.
- Build and update digital databases.
Progression Routes
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