Assistant Cartographer
Full Time | £26,451.00 | OSHQ Southampton
We are Ordnance Survey, a national mapping service with over 230 years of trusted data, pioneering geospatial technology.
What you’ll be doing
From day one, you’ll work with real mapping data and contribute to products used across the UK.
- Edit and maintain geospatial datasets using agreed specifications
- Update maps with real‑world changes (roads, buildings, landscapes)
- Apply cartographic techniques and generalisation methods
- Identify and resolve data quality issues
- Ensure mapping data is accurate, consistent, and usable
- Collaborate with colleagues to deliver updates
- Work to defined quality standards and timescales
- Maintain accurate records of your work
- Support the use of new tools and technologies
What we’re looking for
This role is designed for early career talent, so no prior experience is required.
Essential skills and behaviours
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to spot and communicate data issues
- Problem‑solving and logical thinking
- Comfortable with technology (or keen to learn)
- Ability to work as part of multiple teams
- Good organisation and time management
- Willingness to learn and improve
Desirable
- Interest in geography, maps, or how places connect
- Awareness of Great Britain geography
- Experience with data, systems, or visual tools
Tools you’ll learn
Full training will be provided:
- ArcGIS (ArcMap & Pro)
- OS proprietary technologies
- Adobe, FME, SharePoint and others
Learning & career progression
You’ll receive structured, on‑the‑job training and develop skills in:
- Cartography and map design
- Geospatial data handling
- Data quality and consistency
- Industry tools and workflows
- Teamworking, office skills and personal development
Clear progression to a Cartographer role in approximately two years.
How we hire
Our process focuses on potential, not just experience.
- Apply with a simple, well‑structured CV.
- Complete an online learnability assessment.
- Shortlisted candidates attend a two‑hour OS Cartography Experience.
- Decision followed by offer.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and pension (OS contributes up to 12.07%)
- Performance‑related bonus (where applicable)
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing with service)
- Free subscription to OS Maps and wellbeing support
- Volunteering leave and matched fundraising
- Hybrid and flexible working options
- Learning and development support, coaching and mentoring
- Enhanced family leave, including paid partner leave
Location
HQ in Southampton, Hampshire. Initial onboarding requires five days onsite. Subsequent hybrid working with a minimum of 50% onsite time.
Closing date
Sunday 28th June 2026 at 23:59 pm
Security
Pre‑employment checks include identity, right to work, employment history and criminal record checks via Disclosure & Barring Services.
Skills required for this role
- Process improvements
- Service delivery
- Stakeholder engagement
