Surveying and Mapping Technicians
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.
Common Job Titles
- Mapping Technician
- Photogrammetric Compilation Specialist
- Photogrammetric Technician
- Survey Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate total stations, GPS receivers, and electronic distance measuring devices in field environments to collect precise spatial data for construction and boundary location projects.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze surveying notes, aerial photography, and satellite data using GIS and CAD software to identify topographical features and political boundaries.Proficient
- KnowledgeCalculate coordinate geometry and mapmaking information from field measurements using COGO software and programmable calculators under time constraints.Proficient
- Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of computer-aided design and drafting workflows using AutoCAD Civil 3D and MicroStation to create accurate maps and technical drawings.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate map accuracy and completeness against regulatory standards by comparing source data with finished products and documenting discrepancies.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret geographic information system (GIS) data and spatial analysis results using ESRI ArcGIS software to support construction, mining, and land development decisions.Proficient
- KnowledgeSynthesize multiple data sources including laser scanning, photogrammetry, and GPS measurements to generate comprehensive digital elevation models and three-dimensional terrain representations.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mathematical principles to surveying calculations including trigonometry and algebra for determining distances, elevations, and angles.Developing
- MindsetEngage with engineers, surveyors, and interdisciplinary project teams to coordinate fieldwork, clarify project requirements, and communicate technical findings.Developing
- Hands-onExecute field survey procedures under the direction of licensed surveyors, following safety protocols and quality standards.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Surveying and Mapping Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
56,720
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,910. 25th percentile: U.S. $44,180. 50th percentile: U.S. $51,940. 75th percentile: U.S. $65,240. 90th percentile: U.S. $80,870. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $36,910 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $80,870 |
| Workers on average earn | $56,890 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Computers and Electronics4.2/5
- Geography3.9/5
- Mathematics3.7/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Bentley MicroStation
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA
- Microsoft Word
- Python
- Structured query language SQL
Technology Skills
- 3D Nature LLC Visual Nature Studio
- 3D Nature LLC World Construction Set
- Adobe Acrobat Writer
- Adobe FreeHand MX
- Autodesk 3d Studio Viz
- Autodesk AutoCAD Blue Sky
- Autodesk AutoCAD Map 3D
- Autodesk CAiCE Visual Transportation
Tools & Equipment
- 3D laser scanning systems
- Alidades
- Automatic optical pendulum leveling systems
- Axes
- Barometers
- Chain saws
- Clinometers
- Community base station global positioning systems GPS