Geodetic Surveyors
Geodetic surveyors measure large areas of Earth's surface using satellite systems, GPS technology, LIDAR, and other precision instruments. They work for government agencies, engineering firms, construction companies, and mapping organizations. Their measurements provide the foundation for maps, infrastructure projects, and scientific research.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against geodetic surveyors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A geodetic surveyor might spend mornings setting up satellite receivers at project sites or analyzing LIDAR data in an office. Afternoons often involve field work collecting measurements across terrain, processing data using specialized software, or reviewing survey results with clients. Work varies between outdoor fieldwork and indoor analysis depending on project phase and weather conditions.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You work well in this role if you enjoy solving practical problems and investigating how things fit together physically. You're detail-oriented, comfortable with technology and mathematics, and prefer work grounded in measurable facts rather than abstract concepts.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Geodetic Surveyor (Hiring Event) · National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency · Multiple Locations · $73939–$138370
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $78,500 | $105,330 | $134,250 | 4,520 |
| Alaska | $81,050 | $99,550 | $126,390 | 250 |
| Oregon | $78,850 | $97,070 | $112,260 | 530 |
| Massachusetts | $76,770 | $94,590 | $104,450 | 1,290 |
| Washington | $76,000 | $85,610 | $119,060 | 780 |
| Montana | $71,730 | $84,610 | $104,810 | 350 |
| Minnesota | $67,190 | $83,620 | $100,130 | 980 |
| Maine | $61,480 | $83,200 | $118,020 | 270 |
| Delaware | $73,990 | $82,890 | $99,580 | 120 |
| Nevada | $76,000 | $82,460 | $102,900 | 490 |
| Hawaii | $61,030 | $82,200 | $96,550 | 140 |
| Wyoming | $76,690 | $81,250 | $102,000 | 240 |
All 50 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Federal Surveyor (CFedS) — National Society of Professional Surveyors
- Certified Surveyor Technician: Level IV (CST) — National Society of Professional Surveyors
- Certified Surveyor Technician: Level II — National Society of Professional Surveyors
- Certified Surveyor Technician: Level III — National Society of Professional Surveyors
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against geodetic surveyors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-1022.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.