Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Surveying and mapping technicians collect and process data used to create maps, establish property boundaries, and support construction and mining projects. Working under the direction of surveyors or engineers, they operate surveying instruments, record measurements, and calculate coordinates. They work in offices, outdoors at job sites, and in the field across various terrain and weather conditions.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surveying and mapping technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves fieldwork with surveying equipment to measure distances, angles, and elevations at project sites. Technicians record detailed notes and data, then return to the office to input measurements into mapping software and prepare calculations. Tasks include verifying data accuracy, creating digital maps from survey notes, and producing reports or drawings for engineers and project managers.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. 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'd do well in this role if you prefer hands-on, practical work with clear procedures and measurable results. People who like organizing information systematically and working from established methods tend to excel here. Comfort with both field conditions and computer software supports success in the role.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $61,090 | $78,110 | $102,770 | 3,340 |
| Alaska | $66,470 | $76,970 | $88,930 | 300 |
| Minnesota | $61,980 | $73,190 | $81,120 | 1,060 |
| Washington | $53,830 | $62,720 | $76,070 | 1,030 |
| Maryland | $46,240 | $61,600 | $77,640 | 470 |
| North Dakota | $49,380 | $60,870 | $71,160 | 160 |
| New Jersey | $51,590 | $60,720 | $77,260 | 750 |
| Montana | $48,260 | $60,330 | $65,580 | 430 |
| Ohio | $48,170 | $60,330 | $72,760 | 1,350 |
| Rhode Island | $52,200 | $60,320 | $84,240 | 110 |
| Utah | $47,190 | $59,600 | $69,550 | 360 |
| Wisconsin | $51,400 | $59,080 | $65,450 | 660 |
All 50 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Survey Technician Level I (CST) — 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
- Cadastral Mapping Specialist (CMS) — International Association of Assessing Officers
- Certified Mapping Scientist, Remote Sensing (ASPRS) — American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing - Imaging & Geospatial Information Society
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surveying and mapping technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-3031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.