A Cartographer carries a 72/100 AI replacement risk (high). AI can already handle data entry and record-keeping; Resolving exceptions still needs a person. Of exposed work, ~73% is automation vs 27% augmentation. Capability clock: ~4 months. (ReplacedYet AI-Risk Index, 2026 data.)

Will AI replace a Cartographer?

AI replacement risk: 72/100 (high risk). High exposure — AI can already handle a large share of this role’s tasks.

Timeline: Happening now. Of the exposed work, roughly 73% is likely to be automated and 27% augmented. $673.9M/yr of US wages sit in highly-exposed work for this role.

AI/software exposure: 77%. Robot/physical-automation exposure: 1%.

Capability clock: AI's measured task horizon reaches this role's core complexity (~10h of human work) ~4 months — projected from METR's ~4.3-month doubling.

Pressure Index: 49/100 (medium) — blends risk, demand trend, and real-world evidence. Job postings down 8% vs 2020.

AI tools targeting this role

Layoff signal: low — AI accelerates design and analysis, but applied judgment and physical validation keep demand stable.

Tasks at risk

Tasks that still need a human

Skills that protect you

Safer adjacent careers

Nuclear Engineer (28%) · Robotics Engineer (28%) · Civil Engineer (29%) · Mining Engineer (29%)

Related jobs

Mechanical Drafter (71%) · Civil Engineering Technician (69%) · Civil Drafter (68%) · Environmental Engineer (32%)

Category: Design & Engineering · Methodology · Download the dataset

ReplacedYet AI-Risk Index. Last updated 2026-06-26. AI-estimated and directionally useful, not a guarantee.