How much does a surveying technician make?

In the U.S., experience, mapmaking computer skills such as GIS, and an optional certificate can make a difference; harder tasks or more responsibility can too. Pay also varies by employer industry and location, and extra hours can change total earnings.

Perform surveying and mapping duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, cartographer, or photogrammetrist, to obtain data used for construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps. Excludes “Cartographers and Photogrammetrists” (17-1021), “Surveyors" (17-1022), and “Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers” (19-2042).

What's a typical day like?

Out in the field, you carry surveying instruments, find or set markers, and measure land, sometimes in rough weather. Then you enter the readings on a computer and help make or update maps.

In the U.S., finish high school (often around age 18); math, drafting, computers, and GIS help. Then start work and learn on the job; no state license is required, but the optional NSPS technician certificate requires an exam.

Vocational school or a few years' experience (preparation level 3 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

A Florida survey technician used a remote-controlled sonar-and-GPS boat to build a 3D map of a lake bottom—from shore!