Surveyors
Make exact measurements and determine property boundaries. Provide data relevant to the shape, contour, gravitation, location, elevation, or dimension of land or land features on or near the earth's surface for engineering, mapmaking, mining, land evaluation, construction, and other purposes.
Common Job Titles
- County Surveyor
- Land Surveyor
- Licensed Land Surveyor
- Surveyor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign survey plans and measurement strategies for construction, mining, and land evaluation projects using CAD and GIS software.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize topographic and geodetic information into technical reports and maps using AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, and MicroStation software for client deliverables.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze geospatial data and property boundaries using GPS receivers, total stations, and laser scanners to determine legal land descriptions.Proficient
- KnowledgeCalculate elevation, contour, and dimensional land measurements applying advanced mathematical principles for engineering and construction projects.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate electronic theodolites, robotic total stations, and digital levels in diverse field environments to capture precise land feature data.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate survey data for compliance with legal standards and technical specifications referencing law and government regulations for property documentation.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform field data collection and boundary measurements using GPS systems, laser rangefinders, and measuring tapes under varying terrain conditions.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate client requirements with technical survey capabilities when consulting on land development and construction planning.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret legal property descriptions, deed records, and historical survey documents to resolve boundary disputes and establish accurate land ownership records.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for accurate measurement standards and ethical surveying practices when training field crews and coordinating with interdisciplinary project teams.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Surveyors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
53,080
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,680. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,590. 50th percentile: U.S. $72,740. 75th percentile: U.S. $94,550. 90th percentile: U.S. $116,330. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $43,680 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $116,330 |
| Workers on average earn | $76,730 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mathematics4.7/5
- Engineering and Technology4.3/5
- Geography4.0/5
- Computers and Electronics4.0/5
- Design3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Bentley MicroStation
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Autodesk AutoCAD Land Desktop
- Bentley GeoPak Bridge
- Bentley Systems InRoads Suite
- CE SURVEYOR III
- CMT Incorporated CogoCAD
- Cadcorp desktop GIS
- Carlson SurvCADD
- Carlson SurvCE
Tools & Equipment
- Abney levels
- Altimeters
- Automatic levels
- Automatic slope lasers
- Barometers
- Clinometers
- Curvimeters
- Depth gauge tapes