Cartographic Technologist
Technical occupations in geomatics include aerial survey, remote sensing, geographic information systems, cartographic and photogrammetric technologists and technicians, who gather, analyze, interpret and use geospatial information for applications in natural resources, geology, environmental research and land use planning. Geomatics technologists and technicians are employed by all levels of government, utilities, mapping, computer software, forestry, architectural, engineering and consulting firms and other related establishments.
Typical Duties:
- Develops and operates geographic information systems (GIS);
- Compiles data to be used for analysis and mapping in a GIS;
- Collects data from sources such as ground surveys, remote sensing, aerial photography, and the global navigation satellite system (GNSS);
- Employs digital mapping techniques to generate maps and related charts and graphs;
- Operates stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment
- Shapes aerial and satellite images into topographic maps and image mosaics;
- Operates airborne remote sensing equipment;
- Operates computer-based remote sensing data interpretation equipment to produce images, reports, maps and charts;
- Verifies the accuracy of data acquired by remote sensing methods;
- Extracts thematic information from data obtained through remote sensing methods;
- Operates specialized computers and software to model, analyze, and present geospatial data;
- Customizes geospatial data in response to user requirements;
- Creates physical maps, web-based maps or three-dimensional representations to display the results of data analyses;
- Integrates standard software such as spreadsheets and statistical packages with GIS software.
Educational Requirements:
Three-year college program in cartography, photogrammetry, aerial survey, remote sensing, geographic information systems or geomatics.