Cartographer

?Job overview
?Cartographers make maps in association with surveyors, geologists and similar professionals.

The maps they produce are compiled from aerial photographs,? field records, historical manuscripts, other maps, statistical reports etc.

What do people do in this job?
?Cartographers' work includes assembling and processing source material and using photolithography, photographic processing techniques and computer technology in map production.

?Cartographers are also trained in basic surveying and 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.

?Depending on the purpose for which the maps are required, the range produced by cartographers can include topographical maps, maritime charts, aeronautical charts and maps, climatic maps, road maps and street plans, tourist maps, geological and geographical maps and town plans.
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Computer technology is becoming increasingly important in? cartographers' work and computer-assisted mapping and geographic information systems have significantly increased the speed with which they can produce maps and plans.

What kinds of people are suitable for this career?
?Cartographers should have an aptitude for drawing, good spatial perception and the ability to work with detail.

?An interest in Geography is recommended.

?What qualifications are needed?
?Good school-leaving grades in mathematics, with art and/or technical drawing as an added strength.

?A qualification in cartography from a tertiary technical college would be a further advantage.