Cartographers and Photogrammetrists Certification Requirements and Hiring Process

Jan 12, 2024

16 Min Read

1. What is the difference between a cartographer and a photogrammetrist?

A cartographer is a person who creates maps, while a photogrammetrist is a person who collects and analyzes data to create maps or models using photographs or other imaging techniques.

2. What are the main technologies used by cartographers and photogrammetrists?
Cartographers may use a variety of tools and technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), remote sensing, and digital mapping software to create maps. Photogrammetrists primarily use aerial or satellite imagery, LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) technology, and sophisticated photogrammetric software for modeling and mapping purposes.

3. What skills are required to become a successful cartographer or photogrammetrist?
Both cartographers and photogrammetrists require strong spatial analysis skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, computer proficiency, and knowledge of geography, topography, and map projections. Additionally, photogrammetrists must also possess strong visual interpretation skills for analyzing complex imagery data.

4. In what industries do cartographers and photogrammetrists work?
Cartographers can work in various industries such as government agencies (e.g. National Mapping Service), environmental organizations, urban planning firms, or private companies that specialize in mapping services. Photogrammetrists typically work in sectors related to land planning, engineering design/visualization, forestry management, disaster response/management (e.g., floodplain mapping), real estate development or intelligence/military applications.

5. What kind of education is required for a career in cartography or photogrammetry?
Many employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in geography or a related field for both cartography and photogrammetry careers. Additionally, professionals seeking advanced positions may pursue graduate degrees or specialized training programs in GIS or remote sensing technologies.

2. What educational background is usually required for certification as a cartographer or photogrammetrist?


In order to become certified as a cartographer or photogrammetrist, individuals typically need a bachelor’s degree in geography, geomatics, or a related field. They may also benefit from having coursework in cartography, photogrammetry, remote sensing, GIS technology, and computer science. Some employers may require a master’s degree for more advanced positions.

Additionally, there are several professional certification programs available for cartographers and photogrammetrists through organizations such as the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). These certifications often require a combination of education and work experience before being eligible to take the certification exam.

3. Are there any specific courses or majors that candidates should focus on during their education for this profession?


4. What are some common misconceptions about the job or industry?

5. How has technology and advancements in the digital landscape affected the role of a digital marketing specialist?

6. Can you walk me through a typical day in the life of a digital marketing specialist?

7. How do you stay current with constantly evolving digital marketing trends and strategies?

8. Are there any certifications or additional training that can help advance a career in this field?

9. Can you provide an example of a successful digital marketing campaign or strategy that you have worked on?

10. What are some key skills or qualities that every successful digital marketing specialist should possess?

11. How important is data analysis and analytics in digital marketing, and how does it factor into your role?

12. How do you approach creating and implementing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy for a company or brand?

13. Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles that come along with working in the digital marketing industry?

14. In addition to technical skills, what soft skills are important for success in this profession?

15. How do you collaborate with other departments within a company to ensure cohesive branding and messaging across all channels?

16. What advice do you have for someone just starting their career as a digital marketing specialist?

17. Can you speak to the importance of having an online presence as a digital marketer, and how it can benefit both your personal brand and your career opportunities?

18. How do ethics play a role in the work of a digital marketer, especially when it comes to consumer data privacy?

19.What are some warning signs that indicate when it may be time to re-evaluate or adjust your current digital marketing strategy?

20.How do you measure success within your role as a digital marketing specialist, and what metrics do you focus on?

4. Do cartographers and photogrammetrists need to have previous work experience in the field before becoming certified?


No, previous work experience is not a requirement for certification as a cartographer or photogrammetrist. However, certain certification programs may have specific education or experience requirements that applicants must meet before being eligible to take the certification exam. It is possible to become certified without prior work experience if all other requirements are met and the exam is successfully completed.

5. Is certification necessary for employment as a cartographer or photogrammetrist, or are there other qualifications that employers look for?


Certification is not always necessary for employment as a cartographer or photogrammetrist, but it can be beneficial and help demonstrate competency in the field. Other qualifications that employers may look for include a relevant degree in cartography, geography, or surveying, proficiency in GIS and remote sensing software, experience with mapping and data analysis tools, and strong visualization and communication skills. Some employers may also require previous work experience or internships in a related field.

6. How does one go about obtaining certification as a cartographer or photogrammetrist?

To obtain certification as a cartographer or photogrammetrist, individuals typically need to meet certain education and experience requirements set by a certifying body.

1. Determine which certification you are interested in obtaining: There are several organizations that offer certification for cartographers and photogrammetrists, such as the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM), and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). Research each organization’s requirements and choose the one that best fits your career goals.

2. Meet education requirements: Most certifying bodies require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field, such as geography, geomatics, or cartography. Some may also accept equivalent work experience in place of formal education.

3. Gain relevant work experience: In addition to education, most certifying bodies require a certain number of years of professional experience in the field. This can vary depending on the organization and type of certification you are seeking.

4. Prepare for the exam: Once you meet the education and experience requirements, you will need to prepare for the certification exam. This may involve studying course materials, attending workshops or seminars, or taking practice exams.

5. Schedule and take the exam: When you feel adequately prepared, schedule an exam date with your chosen organization. The length and format of the exam may vary depending on which certification you are seeking.

6. Maintain certification: Many certifications require ongoing continuing education to maintain your status as a certified cartographer or photogrammetrist. Be sure to stay up-to-date on any renewal requirements set by the certifying body.

It’s important to note that specific steps may vary slightly between organizations, so it’s best to check with your chosen certifying body for their specific process.

7. Are there different levels of certification in this field and what are the requirements for each level?


Yes, there are different levels of certification in various fields. Some examples include:

1. IT Certification:
– Entry-Level Certification: No prerequisites, basic knowledge and skills required.
– Mid-level Certification: Required experience in entry-level roles and more advanced knowledge and skills.
– Advanced/Specialty Certification: Requires years of experience and extensive knowledge in a specific area of expertise.

2. Healthcare Certifications:
– Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Completion of state-approved training program and passing a competency exam.
– Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Completion of state-approved training program, passing the NCLEX-PN exam, and meeting state-specific requirements.
– Registered Nurse (RN): Completion of accredited nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and meeting state-specific requirements.

3. Project Management Certifications:
– Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): High school diploma, 23 hours of project management education or 1,500 hours of work on a project team.
– Project Management Professional (PMP): Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, 35 hours of project management education, and either 4,500 hours leading projects or 7,500 hours working on projects.

The specific requirements for each level of certification will vary depending on the field and organization offering the certification. It is important to research the specific requirements for the certification you are interested in pursuing.

8. Do certified cartographers and photogrammetrists have to renew their certification periodically? If so, what is the renewal process like?

Certified cartographers and photogrammetrists are not required to renew their certification periodically. The certification process involves demonstrating knowledge and skills through an examination, and once certified, individuals are considered certified indefinitely. However, some certifying bodies may require continuing education or professional development in order to maintain the certification. This could involve attending conferences, workshops, or completing online courses related to cartography or photogrammetry. Each certifying body may have different requirements for maintaining certification, so it is important to check with the specific organization for their renewal process.

9. Are there any professional organizations or societies specifically for cartographers and photogrammetrists that offer certifications?


Yes, there are several professional organizations and societies specifically for cartographers and photogrammetrists that offer certifications. These include:

1. International Cartographic Association (ICA): The ICA offers an international cartography certification program through the Commission on Education and Training (CET). The certification program is aimed at recognizing professionals who have attained a high level of knowledge and skills in cartography.

2. American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS): The ASPRS offers professional certifications in photogrammetry, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS). These certifications are recognized by employers worldwide as a measure of expertise and professionalism in the field.

3. Canadian Institute of Geomatics (CIG): The CIG offers the Certified Geomatics Professional (CGP) designation to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in geospatial data acquisition, processing, analysis, interpretation, visualization, management, dissemination, application, or education.

4. Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): RICS offers the Chartered Geographer designation to professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and application of geographic principles within their field.

5. National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE): NCGE offers the Certified Geographic Educator (CGE) program for educators who incorporate spatial thinking into their teaching practices.

6. GIS Certification Institute (GISCI): GISCI offers the Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification to professionals who demonstrate competency in geospatial ethics, project management, and technical proficiency using GIS software.

7. European Association of Remote Sensing Laboratories: EARSeL offers the EARSeL Practical Training Certification Program in Remote Sensing to individuals looking to expand their knowledge and skills in remote sensing techniques.

8. Australasian Spatial Information Education Consortium: ASIEC provides a range of professional vocational training programs that lead to nationally recognized qualifications in surveying or spatial science fields.

9. Society of Cartographers (SOC): SOC offers an accreditation program for professional cartographers in the United Kingdom. The accreditation recognizes professionals who have demonstrated competence in the field of cartography.

10. How long does it typically take to complete the certification process for a cartographer or photogrammetrist?

The certification process for a cartographer or photogrammetrist can vary depending on the requirements of the specific certifying organization and the individual’s prior education and experience. However, it typically takes several years to complete all of the necessary steps.

First, individuals must typically have a certain level of education, such as a bachelor’s degree in a related field, before they can begin the certification process. This can take 4-5 years to complete.

Next, individuals must gain relevant work experience in cartography or photogrammetry. The amount of required experience can vary but is often at least 2-3 years. During this time, individuals may also need to complete additional training or courses to develop their skills and knowledge.

After completing the required education and experience, individuals must then pass an exam administered by a certifying organization, which can take several months to prepare for. The exam may consist of written and practical components testing various skills and knowledge related to cartography or photogrammetry.

Finally, once all of these requirements have been met, individuals will receive their certification, which signifies that they have met the standards set by the certifying organization. Overall, it can take anywhere from 5-7 years or longer to complete the full certification process for a cartographer or photogrammetrist.

11. What kind of skills and abilities do hiring managers look for when considering candidates for this profession?


1. Technical skills: Hiring managers look for candidates who have a strong understanding and knowledge of the technical aspects related to their profession. This includes specialized software, programming languages, hardware, and other tools used in the industry.

2. Communication skills: Good communication skills are essential in most professions. In order to collaborate with team members, interact with clients and stakeholders, and convey information effectively, one must possess strong oral and written communication skills.

3. Analytical skills: Candidates must be able to analyze complex data sets, extract insights and make informed decisions based on their analysis. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are also highly valued by employers.

4. Time-management skills: Many professions require individuals to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines. Thus, effective time-management is critical to succeed in roles that demand multitasking.

5. Interpersonal skills: Having good interpersonal skills is important as it helps individuals build relationships with colleagues, clients and superiors. It also reflects positively on one’s ability to work well in a team environment.

6. Adaptability: With constantly evolving industries and technologies, hiring managers look for candidates who can adapt to change easily and quickly learn new things.

7. Attention to detail: Attention to detail is crucial in many professions such as finance, medicine or engineering where mistakes can have significant consequences.

8. Leadership qualities: Employers look for individuals who possess leadership potential or have demonstrated leadership abilities in past roles. This includes taking ownership of projects, leading teams or mentoring colleagues.

9. Subject matter expertise: Professionals are expected to have a deep understanding of their field of expertise which they acquire through years of education or work experience.

10.Reliability and accountability: Hiring managers want employees who can be trusted to deliver consistently high-quality work while being accountable for their actions.

11.Strong work ethic: Possessing a strong work ethic means an individual takes their responsibilities seriously, maintains professionalism at all times and is willing to go above and beyond to achieve their goals.

12. Are there any exams or tests that must be passed in order to become certified as a cartographer or photogrammetrist? If so, what do they cover?

Yes, there are a few exams and tests that must be passed in order to become certified as a cartographer or photogrammetrist. These exams typically assess knowledge and skills related to cartography, GIS, remote sensing, and photogrammetry. Some commonly used tests include:

– American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) certification exams: These include the Certified Photogrammetrist (CP) exam and the Certified Mapping Scientist (CMS) exam.
– National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) exams: These include the Geospatial Level 1 Technician exam and the Geospatial Level 2 Technician exam.
– Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification: This is offered by the GIS Certification Institute and requires passing an exam that covers various aspects of GIS.

The specific topics covered in these exams can vary, but generally they test knowledge of spatial analysis, data management, mapping techniques and principles, coordinate systems, geodesy, digital image processing, software proficiency (e.g. ArcGIS), data sources and acquisition methods (e.g. LiDAR), and project management skills.

13. In addition to technical skills, what other qualities are important for success as a cartographer or photogrammetrist?


Some important qualities for success as a cartographer or photogrammetrist include:

1. Creativity: Being able to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions for map creation or image interpretation.

2. Attention to detail: Cartography and photogrammetry involve intricate processes that require a high level of accuracy and precision. Strong attention to detail is crucial in producing accurate maps and images.

3. Communication skills: Cartographers and photogrammetrists often work in teams, so strong communication skills are important for effective collaboration. They also need to communicate their findings and conclusions to clients, stakeholders, or non-technical audiences.

4. Time management: Meeting deadlines is essential in this field, so good time management skills are necessary for efficient project completion.

5. Spatial awareness: A good sense of space and an understanding of how things relate to one another geographically are important for creating accurate maps and visualizations.

6. Adaptability: Technology and techniques in this field are constantly evolving, so being adaptable and willing to learn new skills is crucial for staying current in the industry.

7. Problem-solving: Cartography and photogrammetry often involve complex data analysis and interpretation, so being able to approach problems critically and find solutions is important.

8. Customer service: As creative professionals working with clients, having good customer service skills is valuable in building relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and delivering satisfactory results.

9. Knowledge of geography or geospatial concepts: A strong understanding of how the physical world works, including geography fundamentals such as coordinate systems, projections, topography, etc., is essential for creating accurate maps or visualizations.

10. Passion for maps or imagery: Individuals who truly enjoy working with maps or imagery are likely to be more engaged in their work and produce higher quality products.

14. Is experience with certain software programs necessary for certification and employment in this field?


It depends on the specific certification and job requirements. Some certifications may require proficiency in particular software programs, while others may not have any specific software requirements. However, having experience with commonly used software in the industry can enhance an individual’s skills and employability. It is always a good idea to familiarize oneself with popular programs in the field to stay competitive and relevant in the job market.

15. Are there any specific job duties that certified professionals can perform that non-certified individuals cannot?


It depends on the specific certification and profession. Generally, certification indicates that an individual has completed a standardized training or assessment program and may have more knowledge or skills in a certain area. This can allow certified professionals to perform certain job duties or tasks that non-certified individuals may not be qualified for. However, it is important to note that certification does not always guarantee competence or proficiency, and there may be non-certified individuals who are fully capable of performing the same job duties.

16. Can individuals with certifications from other countries apply for jobs in the United States as a cartographer or photogrammetrist?


Yes, individuals with certifications from other countries can apply for jobs in the United States as a cartographer or photogrammetrist. However, they may need to have their certification recognized by a professional association or licensing board in the state where they plan to work. They may also need to pass any necessary exams or obtain additional training to meet the specific requirements of the job and location. Additionally, they may need to secure a work visa or other documentation before being able to legally work in the United States.

17. How widely recognized is certification in this field and does it hold the same weight as a degree in the eyes of employers?


The recognition and weight of certification in this field vary depending on the specific profession and industry. In some cases, certification may hold equal or greater weight than a degree, as it demonstrates practical skills and knowledge in a specialized area. In other cases, employers may place more emphasis on a degree due to its broader scope and academic rigor.

Generally speaking, certification in highly regulated or technical fields such as healthcare, finance, or IT security is highly recognized and valued by employers. These certifications often serve as evidence of expertise in a specific area and can enhance job prospects and earning potential.

However, in areas where certification is not widely required or established, such as creative fields or certain business sectors, a degree may hold more weight with employers.

Ultimately, the value of certification versus a degree will depend on the specific industry and job requirements. Some roles may require both a degree and relevant certifications for optimal career advancement.

18. Are there any specific industries or sectors that typically hire cartographers and photogrammetrists?


Some specific industries or sectors that typically hire cartographers and photogrammetrists include:
1. Government agencies: This can include federal, state, and local government organizations that require mapping and surveying services for urban planning, natural resource management, disaster response, and other purposes.

2. Engineering and construction companies: Cartographers and photogrammetrists may be needed for the planning and design of infrastructure projects such as roads, pipelines, and buildings.

3. Geographic information systems (GIS) companies: These companies specialize in creating maps and analyzing geographic data for various applications including business analysis, market research, and environmental monitoring.

4. Surveying firms: These companies specialize in land surveying and may need cartographers and photogrammetrists to assist with creating detailed maps of a given area.

5. Aerospace and defense contractors: Cartographers and photogrammetrists may be hired by these companies to create detailed maps for military or intelligence purposes.

6. Environmental consulting firms: These firms may require cartographers to create maps for environmental impact assessments or land use planning.

7. Natural resource management companies: Cartographers may be employed by these companies to map out natural resources such as forests, water bodies, or minerals.

8. Non-profit organizations: NGOs working on community development projects or conservation efforts may need cartographers or photogrammetrists to help with mapping activities.

9. Technology companies: Companies that develop or use mapping software often hire cartographers and photogrammetrists to help with data collection, analysis, and visualization.

10. Education institutions: Colleges and universities may hire cartographers as instructors or researchers in their geography departments.

19. Is there a demand for certified professionals in this field, and are job opportunities expected to grow in the coming years?


Yes, there is a demand for certified professionals in this field, as health and safety regulations and practices are becoming increasingly important in many industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increasing awareness of occupational hazards and the need for workplace safety measures.

In addition, employers often prefer or require certification for occupational health and safety positions to ensure that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively promote safe working environments. Therefore, earning a certification in this field can increase job opportunities and competitiveness in the job market.

20. Are there any additional steps or requirements for becoming certified if one already has a degree in a related field such as geography or surveying?


It depends on the specific certification you are seeking. Different certification programs may have different requirements or additional steps for individuals with degrees in related fields. It is best to check with the organization or agency offering the certification for specific information on their requirements for individuals with related degrees. In some cases, individuals with related degrees may be able to waive certain prerequisites or take a shorter version of the certification exam.

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