Taylor began her career in geography when, in 1921-22, she held the position of map drawer attendant in the Department of Geography at Sydney University. From there she enrolled in a Bachelor of Science, studying geology and geography and graduating in 1928. Whilst an undergraduate, she worked as a demonstrator in geography at Sydney University. Also as an undergraduate, she co-authored, with her brother, Associate Professor Thomas Griffith Taylor, The Geographical Laboratory .

After graduation she was appointed acting lecturer in the Department of Geography at the University of Sydney in 1929. She remained a demonstrator in the department until 1931.

She enjoyed temporary stints as a temporary assistance at Fisher Library at Sydney University in 1948, 1950 and 1953.

Sources used to compile this entry: Personal archives of Taylor, Dorothy Rhodes [1882-19??], 1922 - 1945, P177; University of Sydney, Archives; Taylor, Griffith and Dorothy Taylor, The geographical laboratory, Sydney University Union, Sydney, 1925.