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Marine Cartographer

MEDIUM DemandMEDIUM AI RiskSTABLE in SL· Rs.130k+ /mo

This role is for individuals passionate about precision, data, and maritime safety. It offers the satisfaction of contributing to a critical global service through highly technical work. However, it demands meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict standards, and comfort with repetitive, data-intensive tasks, with limited scope for creative expression.”

About This Role

Compiles hydrographic data to create official nautical charts for safe sea navigation.

A Day in the Life

A Marine Cartographer spends their day compiling and analyzing hydrographic data to create and update nautical charts. This involves using specialized software to process bathymetry, coastline data, navigational aids, and other marine information, ensuring accuracy for safe sea navigation.

  • Collect, process, and analyze hydrographic survey data (bathymetry, sonar, lidar)
  • Compile and integrate various data sources, including satellite imagery, aerial photos, and existing charts
  • Design and produce nautical charts, electronic navigational charts (ENCs), and other marine maps
  • Apply cartographic standards, symbols, and specifications (e.g., IHO S-57, S-100)
  • Perform quality control and assurance checks on all cartographic products
  • Update existing charts with new information, such as changes in coastline, depths, or navigational aids
  • Collaborate with hydrographers, surveyors, and maritime authorities
  • Utilize GIS and specialized cartographic software for data management and visualization

Work Environment

OFFICETeam: SMALLBUSINESS CASUALRemote: LOW

Primarily an office-based role, working with computers and specialized software. The environment is typically quiet and focused, with collaboration within a small team of cartographers and hydrographers.

Typical hours: 40h/week · WLB score 8/10 · RARE overtime

Generally good work-life balance with standard office hours.

Skills Required

Required

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Spatial Analysis

Preferred

Marine Geology & GeophysicsRemote Sensing & Satellite Imagery Analysis

Technical Skills

CartographyHydrographyGIS Software (ArcGIS, QGIS)Data ProcessingNautical Chart ProductionGeodesyRemote SensingQuality Control

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailAnalytical ThinkingProblem-solvingAccuracySpatial ReasoningTechnical ProficiencyTeamwork

Tools & Software

ArcGISQGISCARIS HIPS and SIPSFugro StarfixAutoCAD Map 3DAdobe Illustrator (for final chart production)Microsoft Office Suite

Salary in Sri Lanka (LKR / month)

Entry LevelRs.45k – Rs.75k/mo
Mid-LevelRs.90k – Rs.180k/mo
SeniorRs.180k – Rs.400k/mo
Entry: Junior Marine CartographerMid: Marine CartographerSenior: Senior Marine Cartographer / Chief Cartographer

Typical progression: 4yr to mid · 9yr to senior

Entry-level involves assisting with data processing and basic chart production. Mid-career professionals manage complex chart compilation projects and ensure compliance with standards. Senior roles involve leading teams, developing new cartographic methods, and strategic planning for national hydrographic offices.

Global Salary (USD / year)

Entry Level$45k – $65k/yr
Mid-Level$75k – $120k/yr
Senior$120k – $200k/yr

Top Markets

UKUSACanadaAustraliaNorwaySingapore

Market Outlook

STABLE

Demand in Sri Lanka is stable, primarily within government agencies like the National Hydrographic Office and Sri Lanka Navy, with some opportunities in port authorities and maritime consultancies.

Hiring: LOW

National Hydrographic Office (Sri Lanka Navy)Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA)Department of Coast Conservation & Coastal Resource ManagementMarine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA)

STABLE

Global demand is stable, driven by the need for updated nautical charts for international shipping, offshore industries, and coastal management.

Entry Requirements

Sri Lanka

Min. EducationBachelor's Degree
ExperienceEntry-level or internship in GIS/Surveying

Preferred

BSc in Surveying SciencesBSc in GeoinformaticsBSc in Oceanography (with GIS focus)Postgraduate Diploma in Hydrographic Surveying

Global

Min. EducationBachelor's Degree
ExperienceEntry-level or internship in GIS/Surveying

Preferred

Master's in Cartography, GIS, or HydrographyExperience with IHO standards

Helpful Certifications

Certified Hydrographic Surveyor (IHO Category B)GIS Professional (GISP)Certificate in Cartography

Risks & Challenges

AI Replacement Risk

MEDIUM

MID TERM

Burnout Risk

LOW

Job Security (SL)

HIGH

While data processing can be automated, the interpretation of complex hydrographic data and adherence to strict international standards still require human expertise and judgment.

Burnout Causes

Repetitive data processing tasksPressure to maintain extreme accuracy for navigational safetyStrict adherence to international standards

Physical Health Risks

Sedentary lifestyle from prolonged desk workEye strain from screensRepetitive strain injuries (RSI)

Mental Health Risks

Stress from the high responsibility of navigational safetyMental fatigue from detailed and precise workIsolation from working on highly specialized tasks

How to Mitigate

  • Maintain continuous professional development in GIS and hydrography
  • Adhere strictly to international standards and protocols
  • Implement ergonomic workstation practices
  • Regular breaks to prevent eye strain and RSI

Is This Career For You?

Students with a strong aptitude for mathematics, geography, computer science, and a meticulous approach to data, who are interested in maritime applications.

Personality Types

ISTJINTJISFJINTP

Core Motivations

Accuracy and PrecisionProblem-solvingOrder and StructureContribution to SafetyTechnical Mastery

What You'll Love

  • Ensuring the safety of maritime navigation worldwide
  • Working with cutting-edge geospatial technology
  • Contributing to national and international maritime security
  • Mastering a highly specialized and critical skill set

What's Challenging

  • Dealing with complex and sometimes incomplete data
  • Maintaining extreme precision and accuracy
  • Strict adherence to international standards and regulations
  • Limited creative freedom due to technical constraints

How to Qualify in Sri Lanka

View all paths →

At a Glance

SL Salary (entry)Rs.45k – Rs.75k/mo
SL Salary (senior)Rs.180k – Rs.400k/mo
Global (senior)$120k – $200k/yr
SL DemandSTABLE
WLB Score8/10
Hours/week~40h
Remote WorkLOW

AI Replacement Risk

MEDIUM

MID TERM

Sectors

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

A Marine Cartographer spends their day compiling and analyzing hydrographic data to create and update nautical charts. This involves using specialized software to process bathymetry, coastline data, navigational aids, and other marine information, ensuring accuracy for safe sea navigation.

To become a Marine Cartographer in Sri Lanka, you typically need Bachelor's Degree. Relevant degree programmes include: Surveying Science, Surveying Science. Explore step-by-step career roadmaps contributed by Sri Lankan Marine Cartographers at paths.lk/career-paths/marine-cartographer.

In Sri Lanka, a Marine Cartographer earns LKR 45k–LKR 75k/month at entry level, LKR 90k–LKR 180k/month at mid-level, and LKR 180k–LKR 400k/month at senior level. Globally, experienced Marine Cartographers earn USD 200k+/year.

Key skills for a Marine Cartographer in Sri Lanka: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Spatial Analysis. Important soft skills: Attention to Detail, Analytical Thinking, Problem-solving. Tools and software: ArcGIS, QGIS, CARIS HIPS and SIPS, Fugro Starfix.

Entry-level involves assisting with data processing and basic chart production. Mid-career professionals manage complex chart compilation projects and ensure compliance with standards. Senior roles involve leading teams, developing new cartographic methods, and strategic planning for national hydrographic offices.

Demand in Sri Lanka is stable, primarily within government agencies like the National Hydrographic Office and Sri Lanka Navy, with some opportunities in port authorities and maritime consultancies.

This role is for individuals passionate about precision, data, and maritime safety. It offers the satisfaction of contributing to a critical global service through highly technical work. However, it demands meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict standards, and comfort with repetitive, data-intensive tasks, with limited scope for creative expression.

Primarily an office-based role, working with computers and specialized software. The environment is typically quiet and focused, with collaboration within a small team of cartographers and hydrographers.