Cartography is the art or science of measuring, mapping, and charting the earth’s surface, using information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.

It combines the skills of several types of workers, including "land survey teams", who provide data relevant to the shape, contour, location, elevation, or dimension of the land or its features, and "cartographers", who compile geographic, political, and cultural data and prepare maps in digital or graphic form.

The nature of cartography is changing rapidly due to improved aerial photography and new technologies such as the Global Positioning System (GPS), new earth resources data satellites, and geographic information systems (GIS). As a result, new careers are emerging which combine the functions of mapping science and surveying into a broader field concerned with the collection and analysis of geographic information.

Overall employment of cartography professionals is expected to grow about as fast as the average through 2008. As technologies become more complex, cartography professionals who have at least a bachelor’s degree and strong technical skills will have a distinct advantage in the job market.

Individuals who desire a career in cartography must be detail-oriented, accurate, and analytical. Excellent problem-solving and communication skills are necessary, as well as an ability to work well under pressure. Good eyesight, coordination, and hearing are very important in some cartography careers.

Persons interested in cartography are able to choose from a wide variety of careers. Those who enjoy outdoor work may be well-suited for a career as a land surveyor or technician, whereas those who prefer indoor work may prefer a career as a cartographer or Geographic Information Specialist.

There are also many types of employers in this industry. Major Federal Governmental employers include the U.S. Geological Survey, the Bureau of Land Management, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Forest Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA). Most surveyors in state and local government work for highway departments and urban planning and redevelopment agencies. Non-governmental employers include construction firms, mining companies, oil and gas extraction companies, and public utilities.