Map engineer

What does a Cartographer Engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A Cartographer Engineer works with collecting, analyzing, and visualizing geographic information. The profession often involves creating and updating maps, working with GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and performing measurements and data processing from various sources, such as satellites or fieldwork. The cartographer collaborates regularly with other specialists, such as urban planners and engineers in construction and infrastructure, to provide data for city planning, environmental projects, and technical investigations. The work environment varies and can include both office work at computers and outdoor fieldwork, depending on the project.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a Cartographer Engineer has shown a stable but slightly positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 39,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 40 400 SEK, representing an approximate 2.8% rise. Since then, the level has remained unchanged, and the average salary for 2024 is still 40 400 SEK. This development reflects a continued demand for GIS and mapping skills, with the job market characterized by balance but with an outlook of increased demand in the coming years. Salaries are influenced by education, experience, and sector, with the public sector generally offering higher wages for qualified roles.

Cartographer Engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, short post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,600 SEK/month (female, government sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 243 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (men: 40 700 SEK, women: 40 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but larger cities and the public sector generally have higher salaries

Education and qualifications

The path to a career as a Cartographer Engineer typically involves a university degree in geomatics, surveying, or GIS. To work in a qualified role, a degree at least at the bachelor's level is often required, but some positions may also require further education or specialized courses in geographic information management. Practical experience from projects or internships is highly meritorious, as well as the ability to work with advanced GIS software.

• Formal education: Bachelor's or master's degree in surveying, geomatics, or GIS
• Certifications: Courses in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS)
• Internships: Recommended during education for practical skills
• Prerequisites: Good mathematical skills and interest in technology and geography
• Tips: Choose education with focus on digital mapping and data modeling

Common benefits and compensations

Cartographer Engineers are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and the possibility of remote work. Employment within the public sector may also include extra vacation days, professional development, and parental salary. Compensation for fieldwork and travel may occur for projects outside the regular workplace.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Cartographer Engineer is considered balanced nationwide, with 564 job openings currently available. Demand for GIS and mapping expertise is expected to grow over the next five years, driven by digitalization and societal development. At the same time, the profession requires continuous updating of technical skills, as GIS software and data collection methods evolve rapidly. A challenge may be competing for the most attractive roles, especially in larger cities and within the public sector where salaries are higher. The ability to combine technical expertise with communication skills becomes increasingly important.

Tips for aspiring Cartographer Engineers

To succeed as a Cartographer Engineer, it is good to be analytical and curious about technological possibilities. It is recommended to deepen knowledge in GIS software early on and gain practical experience through internships or projects, as problem-solving skills are central to the profession. Precision is crucial when handling large datasets and ensuring map information is accurate. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues from different disciplines and make it easier to present data pedagogically. Flexibility is an asset, as tasks can vary between field measurements and advanced data analysis at the office. Staying updated on new digital tools and trends in geodata is also advantageous. Finally, a genuine interest in societal development and environmental issues often motivates those who want to work long-term as a Cartographer Engineer.

Key facts about a Cartographer Engineer

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree in geomatics, GIS, or surveying
• Work environment: Combination of office and fieldwork
• Demand: Moderate today, increasing over 5 years
• Number of job openings: 564 within the profession
• Typical work form: Project-based work in technical teams

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a Cartographer Engineer, there are opportunities to specialize in advanced GIS analysis, project management, or take roles such as GIS coordinator and technical expert within larger infrastructure projects. It is also common to move into consultancy or work internationally on global mapping projects. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the opportunities for employment as GIS and mapping engineers are moderate today, but demand is expected to increase over five years thanks to digitalization and growing needs within urban planning and environmental monitoring. Career development can also occur through further education or by combining technical skills with leadership and strategic planning.

Common questions about a Cartographer Engineer

• What does a Cartographer Engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 40 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• How does one become a Cartographer Engineer?
  - Most commonly, a university or engineering degree in geomatics, GIS, or surveying.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the job responsibilities of a Cartographer Engineer?
  - Collection, processing, and visualization of geographic data, as well as working with GIS systems and map production.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years, especially within digitalization projects and urban planning.
• What education is required to get a job?
  - Higher education in a relevant field is a requirement for most positions; internships are advantageous.
• How many job openings are there for Cartographer Engineers?
  - Currently, there are 564 job openings within the profession in Sweden.