Photogrammetrists use photogrammetry to construct maps or scale drawings from aerial photographs or other images. They work in a variety of industries, including geology, architecture, engineering, and law enforcement. Strong computer skills and the ability to interpret data are required. Education and continuing education are important, and licensing may be required.
Photogrammetrists are professionals with advanced training in photogrammetry. The first remote sensing technology ever developed, photogrammetry, is the process of constructing maps or scale drawings from aerial photographs or other relevant images. Photogrammetrists often work with survey and mapping technicians as they collect data for a project.
Job opportunities for photogrammetrists can be found in a variety of companies, as photogrammetry has applications in geology, architecture, topographic mapping, engineering, manufacturing, police investigation and quality control. Examples of government agencies in the United States that hire photogrammetrists include the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the US Geological Survey (USGS), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the US Forest Service. (USFS), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA). Occasionally, however, the duties of a photogrammetrist may overlap with those of a cartographer, remote sensing scientist, or geographic information systems officer.
During a typical day, photogrammetrists might perform tasks such as carrying out projects requested by architectural professionals, planning and supervising aerial or ground surveys, image acquisition, and airborne camera operation. Your data is often needed to analyze areas that are inaccessible or difficult to search by other methods.
Strong computer skills are required for this occupation, as a photogrammetrist is expected to use specialized software when producing graphic and accessible images. Photogrammetrists must also be able to evaluate and interpret a wide variety of data, including aerial photography, laser range, satellite imagery and radar.
Preparation for becoming a photogrammetrist can vary. High school students interested in the field are encouraged to take classes in algebra, trigonometry, geometry and calculus, in addition to biology, chemistry, physics, geography, earth science and computer programming. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees are available at colleges and universities that include photogrammetry as part of the geography, geomatics engineering, civil engineering, forestry, or physical sciences program. Internship experience is highly recommended before looking for a full-time position.
Like many scientific occupations, photogrammetry requires a commitment to continuing education. The technology used to evaluate images is constantly changing, so belonging to organizations like the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing: Society for Images and Geospatial Information is important to stay current in the field. Professional status and licensing can be obtained through the National Board of Engineering and Inspection Examiners (NCEES). Depending on the state they wish to work in, students may also need to be licensed as surveyors.
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