Cartographic Draughtsperson

Also known as:

Draughtsperson, Cartographic
Map Maker - Draughtsperson

Introduction

A cartographic draughtsperson produces maps and charts. The work can involve producing maps on computer using digital mapping techniques, or occasionally by hand.

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Work Activities

A cartographic draughtsperson uses material selected by a cartographer to produce maps and charts. Digital processes, using computer software packages to display data on screen and construct maps, are commonly used.

Some work, especially in small organisations, may occasionally need the draughtsperson to use traditional methods of working on coated plastic drafting foils and films used to produce printers' plates. A draughtsperson may add details such as new housing estates to existing maps. They select the size of letters and symbols according to the importance of features.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

The work requires patience, concentration and attention to detail. You will need to be have good computer skills. It helps if you work neatly and have a steady hand when producing maps by hand.

You will need an eye for design to make sure that maps are attractive as well as accurate. You also need good vision, including colour vision.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries vary depending on employer and level of responsibility.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Cartographic draughtspeople earn in the range of £18,000 - £24,500 a year, rising to £26,500 - £29,500. Higher earners can make around £33,000 a year. Cartographic draughtspeople work a basic 42-hour week, Monday to Friday. Occasionally, you may need to work late, especially as deadlines approach.

Most cartographic draughtspeople work for government departments, including the Ordnance Survey, the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO), the Department of the Environment and the Meteorological Office.

There are also opportunities in local government, mineral exploration, civil engineering, the Scottish Government, map publishing companies and with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Relevant draughting skills and experience are useful.

Knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) is also useful.

Colleges will usually consider applications from candidates who do not meet their usual entry requirements. You should check the admissions policy of individual colleges.

• 10% of people in occupations such as cartographic draughtsperson work part-time.
• 21% have flexible hours.
• 4% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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