Cartographer Salary Overview
Salaries for Cartographers are influenced by factors such as experience, certifications, geographic location, and the specific industry of employment.
National Average: $48,000 - $82,000 per year
Experience-Based Salary Ranges
Entry Level (0-2 years)
$48,000 - $55,000
Mid Level (3-5 years)
$56,000 - $68,000
Senior Level (6-9 years)
$69,000 - $82,000
Manager/Director (10+ years)
$83,000 - $110,000+
Entry Level (0-2 years)
- Basic map creation and analysis
- Assisting senior cartographers
- Learning GIS software
- Contributing to team projects
Mid Level (3-5 years)
- Independent project handling
- Advanced GIS software proficiency
- Collaboration with city planners
- Data collection and interpretation
Senior Level (6-9 years)
- Leading cartography projects
- Mentoring junior staff
- Implementing new mapping technologies
- Liaising with stakeholders
Manager/Director (10+ years)
- Overseeing department operations
- Strategic planning and management
- Budget management for projects
- Driving innovation in mapping techniques
Regional Salary Variations
Salaries for Cartographers can vary significantly based on location, largely due to differences in cost of living and demand for geographic services.
New York City
$60,000 - $95,000
San Francisco
$65,000 - $100,000
Chicago
$55,000 - $85,000
Los Angeles
$58,000 - $92,000
Dallas
$50,000 - $78,000
Atlanta
$52,000 - $80,000
Phoenix
$50,000 - $76,000
Remote (US-based)
$48,000 - $82,000
- Higher salaries in urban areas often offset by higher living costs
- Remote positions may offer more flexibility and varied pay
- Regions with high demand for GIS data may offer competitive salaries
- Consider cost of living adjustments when evaluating offers
Industry Salary Comparison
Cartographers are employed across various industries, and salaries can vary based on industry-specific demands and growth opportunities.
| Industry | Salary Range | Bonus/Equity | Growth Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government | $50,000 - $80,000 | Low | Stable |
| Environmental Services | $55,000 - $85,000 | Moderate | Good |
| Urban Planning | $60,000 - $90,000 | High | Very Good |
| Technology | $65,000 - $100,000 | High | Very Good |
Job Outlook and Career Growth
The demand for Cartographers is expected to grow due to increased reliance on geographic data for decision-making in urban planning, environmental protection, and disaster response.
- Increasing use of GIS in various sectors
- Demand for accurate digital mapping
- Growth in environmental and urban planning projects
Salary Negotiation Tips
Effective salary negotiation can ensure you are fairly compensated for your skills and experience as a Cartographer.
Preparation Strategies
-
Research Industry Standards
Understand current salary trends and benchmarks in your industry.
-
Know Your Worth
Assess your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the role.
-
Consider Location
Factor in regional cost of living and demand for your expertise.
-
Prepare Supporting Documentation
Gather evidence of achievements and contributions.
During Negotiation
-
Communicate Clearly
Articulate your value and justify your salary request.
-
Be Open to Compromise
Consider other forms of compensation if salary demands can't be met.
-
Listen Actively
Understand the employer's constraints and priorities.
-
Stay Professional
Maintain a respectful and positive tone throughout discussions.
-
Confirm Agreements in Writing
Ensure all negotiated terms are documented and agreed upon.