Case studies: Cartographer: Edward

Edward's degree was in robotics and intelligent machines. He is now a cartographer at Ordnance Survey...

My degree was more related to computer science and programming than geography, so when I applied for a cartography position at Ordnance Survey in Southampton, I didn't think that I'd be successful. There were about 300 applicants for 15 jobs and there were a number of stages I needed to get through before I was offered the job. My application form was successful so, along with a number of other applicants, I was invited to an assessment centre, where psychometric and IQ-type tests were used, as well as individual case study tasks. Finally a small number of us were invited to interview.

What are my tips for others wishing to be successful in applications for cartography jobs? Try to offer a mix of skills, preferably packaging one or two of the following together: graphic design; web development; geographical information systems (GIS) analysis; and development and programming. The role is fairly diverse with each project using different skills and giving you the chance to develop these further.

If you are proactive, Ordnance Survey will let you run with projects you are interested in, as long as you explain the benefit to the company. I have been involved in developing new and better systems for the end user. I have been able to identify both internal and external courses to improve my skill set, such as how to use graphic design software and project management.

My degree was useful in that I have the ability to look at things in a logical way, to be analytical and have experience of manipulating data. I have used my programming skills to write data formats for our products. Although my job is focused on styling and creating products from the cartography data we produce, I have also become involved in producing the data that is then styled. This has also led to me being given a quality assurance role.

My work activities include being involved in a number of promotional ventures. I developed a free map for spectators for the London stage of the Tour of Britain cycle race. I was given a template of the proposed leaflet and my job was to produce the mapping inset which showed the route. It was enjoyable because it could be produced freehand by tracing it on to a screen; it didn't have to conform to any of our existing products. I also got to produce small drawings to represent London landmarks.

For another project for the British Heart Foundation, also a cycle event, I received data on way points and then processed this using GIS systems so my colleague could then draw on the route using a graphic design package, with other people providing input on the graphic style. We often sit in the middle ground, producing data and manipulating it but also using design skills to produce maps and other cartographic products.

I enjoy the diversity of the job. From having the total freedom to design my own small illustrations for the Tour of Britain map, to spending an intense block of time on coding and programming. Sometimes we are very busy with tight deadlines; sometimes we have time to develop our own skills and interests. The atmosphere is relaxed but one where if you are proactive you can develop quickly.

What are the less enjoyable bits? The bureaucracy of the Civil Service and the, perhaps, slower route to promotion, but in the current climate, job security outweighs all of these.

How would I like to progress? I am someone who always wants to move forward and push for change and improvement. So I would like to be in a position where I can exercise this more fully and have more authority.