Cartographic Technician in Kansas Career Overview
As a Cartographic Technician, you play a key role in the production and maintenance of maps and geographic information systems (GIS). Your work involves combining technical skills with an understanding of geography to create accurate visual representations of spatial data.
Role Function: You are responsible for compiling, analyzing, and presenting data related to geographic locations. This data is crucial for urban planning, environmental management, and navigation.
Map Production: You use specialized software and tools to design and produce maps for various applications, including topographic, thematic, and navigation maps. Your attention to detail ensures that these maps meet specific standards of accuracy and clarity.
Data Integrity: Maintaining the integrity of geographic data is part of your daily tasks. You evaluate, organize, and update datasets to reflect current conditions, ensuring that the information is reliable for users.
Collaboration: You often work with surveyors, researchers, and urban planners to understand their needs and deliver maps or data that are tailored to specific projects. This collaboration enhances the usefulness of your work in real-world scenarios.
Technology Adaptation: The field is constantly evolving with new technology. As a Cartographic Technician, you stay informed about advancements in GIS software and mapping techniques to improve the quality and efficiency of your work.
Industry Impact: Your contributions are vital to numerous sectors, including government, transportation, environmental science, and emergency services. The maps you create assist in decision-making processes that affect both communities and the environment.
Through your expertise in cartography, you help shape an understanding of the physical world and its complexities, making your role indispensable in the mapping industry.
Cartographic Technician Salary in Kansas
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Cartographic Technician in Kansas
To become a Cartographic Technician in Kansas, you typically need to complete a specific educational path. Here are the essential degree programs that can equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills for this career:
Geographic Information Science and Cartography
This degree focuses on the technical aspects of mapping and analyzing geographical data. Coursework usually includes:- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Cartographic design
- Spatial analysis
- Remote sensing
Geography
A degree in geography provides a broader context for understanding spatial relationships and human-environment interactions. Core subjects often encompass:- Physical geography
- Human geography
- Cartography
- Geographic data analysis
While an associate's degree may suffice for entry-level positions, a bachelor's degree is generally preferred by employers. Some universities also offer specialized certifications or advanced degrees that may enhance your qualifications.
Best Schools to become a Cartographic Technician in Kansas 2024
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Oregon State University
University of Florida
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
University of Southern California
- Perform surveying and mapping duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, cartographer, or photogrammetrist, to obtain data used for construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other purposes.
- May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and other features.
- May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.
Cartographic Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas
Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for detail, ensuring accuracy in the representation of geographical features and data.
Proficiency in Mapping Software: Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and computer-aided design (CAD) software is essential. You should be comfortable utilizing applications such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar tools.
Analytical Skills: You need the ability to analyze spatial data and interpret geographic information to create effective visual representations.
Cartographic Design Principles: Understanding the principles of cartographic design, including color theory, typography, and layout, will enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your maps.
Technical Skills: You should be adept with various data collection technologies, including GPS devices and remote sensing tools, to gather geographic data accurately.
Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills are important for collaborating with team members and conveying complex information clearly to non-technical audiences.
Problem-Solving Abilities: The capacity to troubleshoot issues that arise in mapping processes or data collection will be beneficial.
Time Management: You must be able to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to meet project deadlines.
Familiarity with Geographic Concepts: A good understanding of fundamental geographic concepts, including topography, spatial relationships, and map projections, is vital for creating useful maps.
Team Collaboration: Being able to work effectively as part of a team, often alongside geographers, planners, and other professionals, is essential for successful project outcomes.
Job Duties for Cartographic Technicians
Check all layers of maps to ensure accuracy, identifying and marking errors and making corrections.
Design or develop information databases that include geographic or topographic data.
Position and hold the vertical rods, or targets, that theodolite operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations.
Analytical or scientific software
- Coordinate geometry COGO software
- Triton Elics International Isis
Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Bentley MicroStation
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Cartographic Technician in Kansas
The job market for Cartographic Technicians in Kansas reflects a diverse range of opportunities across various sectors. Here are key aspects to consider:
Demand for Cartographic Technicians: As industries increasingly rely on geographic data for decision-making, the demand for cartographic technicians is evident. They play an essential role in creating and maintaining maps, which are vital for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and resource management.
Growth Potential: Employment projections indicate positive growth in the field. As technology advances, there is an increasing integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in various sectors, including agriculture, public safety, and transportation. This trend lends itself to expanding job opportunities for those specializing in cartography.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Urban Areas: Major cities such as Kansas City and Wichita are hubs for cartographic services, driven by urban development projects and the need for detailed mapping in metropolitan management.
- Government Agencies: Local, state, and federal government offices frequently hire cartographic technicians for positions related to planning, environmental protection, and emergency services.
- Universities and Research Institutions: Kansas is home to several universities engaged in geographic research, which may require cartographic expertise, offering additional opportunities in academia and research facilities.
Industry Applications: Different industries are increasingly embracing cartographic technology:
- Environmental Consulting: With the focus on sustainability, demand in this sector is growing, creating opportunities for technicians skilled in environmental mapping and analysis.
- Transportation and Logistics: Companies in this field utilize maps for route optimization and analyzing traffic patterns, leading to a steady need for skilled cartographers.
- Telecommunications: The expansion of infrastructure for telecommunications often requires cartographic input to plan installations and coverage areas effectively.
Active participation in local GIS or mapping-related organizations could also enhance your network and prospects, making it easier to learn about new opportunities as they arise. Networking and continuing education are valuable for staying updated on emerging trends and technologies that may further impact the cartographic field in Kansas.
Top Related Careers to Cartographic Technician 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Cartographic Technician in Kansas
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
- Website: usgs.gov
- A reliable source for maps, geographical data, and resources related to earth sciences, which are fundamental for cartographic work.
American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)
- Website: asprs.org
- Offers professional development resources, certifications, and a platform for networking within the cartography and remote sensing community.
National Geographic Society
- Website: nationalgeographic.org
- Provides educational materials, articles, and resources focused on geography and cartography, including access to professional publications and maps.
GIS Certification Institute
- Website: gisci.org
- A valuable resource for geographical information systems (GIS) certification, enhancing your credentials as a cartographic technician.
Cartography and Geographic Information Society (CAGIS)
- Website: cagis.org
- Offers resources and networking opportunities for professionals and students in the field of cartography, with a focus on education and outreach.
Esri
- Website: esri.com
- A leader in GIS technology, Esri provides numerous educational resources, training opportunities, and software tools essential for cartographic production.
Geospatial Intelligence Standards Working Group (GWG)
- Website: gwg.nga.mil
- Focuses on the development of geospatial standards and offers access to guidelines and frameworks that impact cartographic practices and applications.
University of Kansas - Department of Geography
- Website: geography.ku.edu
- Provides educational resources, research opportunities, and contacts in the field that can help you advance your career in cartography.
Maine Office of GIS
- Website: maine.gov/megis
- An example of state-level GIS resources, including map products, datasets, and tools that can serve as references or models for your work.
Oregon State University - Cartography and GIS Resources
- Website: cartotalk.com
- A collaborative community platform that facilitates discussion and exchange of cartographic practices, techniques, and innovations among peers.
Map Academy
- Website: mapacademy.io
- Offers online courses and tutorials focused on map-making and cartographic techniques, ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
Utilizing these resources will provide you with valuable knowledge and connections as you pursue a career as a Cartographic Technician in Kansas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cartographic Technician in Kansas
What education is required to become a Cartographic Technician?
Typically, a postsecondary degree in cartography, geography, or a related field is required. An associate degree may suffice for entry-level positions, while more advanced roles may require a bachelor’s degree.What skills are essential for a Cartographic Technician?
Key skills include proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, knowledge of map design, and proficiency in tools like Adobe Illustrator or GIS software.What are the primary duties of a Cartographic Technician?
You will be responsible for creating and updating maps, analyzing geographic data, interpreting aerial photographs, and utilizing GIS technology to produce accurate geographic representations.What industries employ Cartographic Technicians?
Cartographic Technicians are commonly found in government agencies, environmental consultancies, urban planning firms, and research institutions. Roles also exist in private sectors such as transportation and real estate.Is there room for advancement in this career?
Yes, with experience and further education, you can advance to senior cartographer roles, GIS analyst positions, or even project management within the field.What is the job outlook for Cartographic Technicians in Kansas?
The demand for cartographic technicians is expected to grow due to ongoing advancements in technology and an increasing need for geographic data in various industries.What software should I be familiar with as a Cartographic Technician?
Familiarity with GIS software like ArcGIS, QGIS, and remote sensing tools, as well as graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, can be beneficial.Do Cartographic Technicians typically work in teams or independently?
You will often work as part of a team with other geographers, planners, and scientists, but there will also be opportunities for independent projects based on your role and responsibilities.Can I work remotely as a Cartographic Technician?
While some positions may offer remote work options, many roles require access to specific data and technology that can necessitate working on-site, especially for collaborative projects.What is the average salary for Cartographic Technicians in Kansas?
Salaries can vary, but the average annual wage for Cartographic Technicians in Kansas typically falls within the range of $45,000 to $65,000, depending on experience and the employing organization.