Cartographer Resume Example
Use this example to learn how to format and structure your Cartographer resume for maximum impact.
Elena Watkins
Cartographer
Professional Experience
Senior Cartographer
National Geographic Society
Mar 2019 – Present
- Designed and produced thematic and topographic maps for print and digital publications viewed by over 10 million readers annually.
- Integrated remote sensing data and GIS datasets to update outdated geopolitical boundaries and terrain models.
- Mentored junior cartographers on symbology, labeling standards, and QGIS workflows.
GIS & Cartographic Analyst
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
Jul 2014 – Feb 2019
- Developed high-resolution digital maps for environmental monitoring and federal land management programs.
- Utilized ArcGIS Pro to visualize and analyze terrain, vegetation, and hydrology datasets.
- Collaborated with field surveyors and remote sensing teams to verify and validate spatial accuracy.
Projects
Interactive Geospatial Map Portal – National Geographic
Led the design of an award-winning interactive web map showcasing endangered ecosystems across the globe. Combined satellite imagery, ecological data layers, and user-friendly UI elements to enhance educational engagement and data storytelling. Recognized by the Society for Conservation GIS in 2022.
How to Format Your Cartographer Resume
Follow these guidelines to make your resume visually appealing and easy to read by hiring managers in the game industry.
Key Formatting Guidelines
-
Include tools and technologies (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS, Mapbox) in a dedicated skills section.
-
Highlight published or publicly available maps and link to your portfolio.
-
Showcase your understanding of cartographic principles alongside technical expertise.
Cartographer Resume Writing Tips
Maximize the impact of your resume with these tips, especially curated for aspiring or experienced Cartographers.
Content Optimization Tips
-
Include specific tools and datasets used in map production and analysis.
-
Mention the end-users or impact of the maps you created (e.g., federal agencies, public access).
-
Quantify contributions (e.g., number of maps published, size of dataset processed).
✓ Do's
- Do link to a portfolio of static or interactive maps.
- Do highlight interdisciplinary collaborations with scientists, engineers, or policymakers.
- Do include awards or recognition received for cartographic work.
✗ Don'ts
- Don’t omit the purpose or audience of the maps you created.
- Don’t list only GIS skills — show your design and communication abilities.
- Don’t ignore data quality and accuracy responsibilities in your roles.
Common Cartographer Resume Mistakes
Avoid these frequent mistakes to make your resume stand out and reflect your professionalism.
Mistakes to Avoid
-
Listing only software knowledge without context of application.
-
Failing to describe the real-world use or audience of the maps developed.
-
Omitting collaborative or cross-functional aspects of mapping projects.
Cartographer Salary Information
Cartographer salaries depend on specialization, tools used, and whether working in government, private, or academic sectors.
Expected Range: $58,000 - $92,000
- Entry-level (0–2 years): $50,000 – $62,000
- Mid-level (3–5 years): $63,000 – $78,000
- Senior-level (6+ years): $79,000 – $95,000+
Cartographer Skill Requirements
Education and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Geography, Cartography, Geospatial Science, or a related field
Experience
- 2–5 years of experience producing maps or performing geospatial analysis
- Hands-on experience with GIS tools and remote sensing integration
Certifications
- GISP (GIS Professional)
- Certified Cartographic Technician (CCT)
Technical Skills
- ArcGIS / QGIS
- Mapbox / Leaflet.js
- Remote Sensing & Satellite Imagery
- Python for GIS (e.g., GeoPandas, Rasterio)
- Cartographic Design Principles
Soft Skills
- Spatial Reasoning
- Attention to Detail
- Analytical Thinking
- Visual Storytelling
- Collaboration
Additional Resources
Learn more about the career path, skills need as well as salary ranges for the role as Cartographer