Will “Topographer” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps.

• Collect information about specific features of the Earth, using aerial photography and other digital remote sensing techniques.

• Examine and analyze data from ground surveys, reports, aerial photographs, and satellite images to prepare topographic maps, aerial-photograph mosaics, and related charts.

• Travel over photographed areas to observe, identify, record, and verify all relevant features.

• Identify, scale, and orient geodetic points, elevations, and other planimetric or topographic features, applying standard mathematical formulas.

• Study legal records to establish boundaries of local, national, and international properties.

• Inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.

• Delineate aerial photographic detail, such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features, using precision stereoplotting apparatus or drafting instruments.

• Determine map content and layout, as well as production specifications such as scale, size, projection, and colors, and direct production to ensure that specifications are followed.

• Determine guidelines that specify which source material is acceptable for use.

• Revise existing maps and charts, making all necessary corrections and adjustments.

• Select aerial photographic and remote sensing techniques and plotting equipment needed to meet required standards of accuracy.

• Prepare and alter trace maps, charts, tables, detailed drawings, and three-dimensional optical models of terrain using stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment.

• Build and update digital databases.