Description
Perform photogrammetric mapping duties, usually under the direction of a photogrammetrist or cartographer, to extract spatial data from aerial, satellite, or UAV imagery for construction, engineering, resource, and mapmaking purposes. Calculate and compile map information, create orthophotos and elevation models from imagery and LiDAR, and digitize features to depict topography, boundaries, and other features. Verify the accuracy and completeness of imagery-derived maps and datasets.
- • Set and verify ground control targets for aerial or UAV surveys.
- • Check all map and image layers for accuracy, marking and correcting errors.
- • Design and maintain databases that store imagery, control points, DEM/DSM, and metadata.
- • Monitor photogrammetric processing and map updates for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
- • Produce and update overlay layers on orthophotos at multiple scales.
- • Determine scales, symbology, and line weights for plotted orthophotos and image maps.
- • Compile flight lines, control requirements, and acquisition parameters for image missions.
- • Identify and compile source imagery and ancillary data to create requested map products.
- • Operate and manage photogrammetric and GIS systems to store, query, and output data and reports.
- • Evaluate aerotriangulation residuals and accuracy against applicable standards.
- • Analyze aerial or satellite imagery to detect and interpret topographic, resource, or man-made features.
- • Integrate parcel and boundary records with imagery to depict property relationships.
- • Calculate positions, angles, areas, and scales for mapmaking using image measurements and control.
- • Cross-check contours and features against imagery and legacy maps to verify identification.
- • Digitize contours, breaklines, and planimetric features from stereo models.
- • Assist in developing and documenting photogrammetric processing methods and QC procedures.
- • Edit seamlines, color balance, and mosaic imagery to maintain scale and radiometric consistency.
- • Provide technical information to staff or clients on imagery, maps, accuracy, and metadata.
- • Create detailed source and method notes for imagery blocks and derived products.
- • Set up and operate stereoscopic workstations, scanners, and photogrammetric software.
- • Gather required imagery, control, calibration files, and sensor metadata for new projects.
- • Collect or verify ground control and checkpoints using GNSS or existing control networks.
- • Import GPS control, imagery, and survey data into photogrammetric/GIS workstations for mapping.
- • Apply camera and sensor models and perform block adjustments, including curvature and refraction corrections.
- • Estimate time and costs for photogrammetric mapping projects.
- • Produce orthorectified imagery, DEM/DSM surfaces, and topographic maps with supporting notes.
- • Record measurements, edit decisions, and QA results in logs, sketches, or digital notes.
- • Locate existing control points or suitable checkpoints in the field or within imagery.
- • Place and recover aerial ground control panels or targets as needed.
- • Coordinate or lead technicians performing stereo compilation, orthorectification, and quality control.
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
