Surveyors in California
Surveyors measure and map land, marking property boundaries and collecting data on terrain, elevation, and location for construction, engineering, and legal purposes. They work outdoors on job sites and in offices, using specialized instruments and software to produce detailed records that guide development and establish property lines. In California the median pay is $105,330 a year, 40% above the national median of $75,440.
$105,330median pay in California, per year
$78,500–$134,250middle half earn
4,520employed in California
$75,440U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surveyors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surveyors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Who is hiring in California
20open roles like this on employer career sites, 2 in California or remote
4employers hiring
17posted in the last 7 days
AZ · NY · HIwhere most openings are
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
MathematicsReading ComprehensionWritingCritical ThinkingSpeakingActive ListeningCoordinationActive Learning
Knowledge areas
Mathematics (knowledge)Engineering and TechnologyGeographyComputers and ElectronicsCustomer and Personal ServiceDesign
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Surveyors.
Licenses and training in California
Surveyors pay in other states
Alaska · $99,550Oregon · $97,070Massachusetts · $94,590Washington · $85,610Montana · $84,610Minnesota · $83,620Maine · $83,200Delaware · $82,890Nevada · $82,460Hawaii · $82,200
Related occupations
Cartographers and PhotogrammetristsGeodetic SurveyorsArchitects, Except Landscape and NavalLandscape ArchitectsAerospace EngineersAgricultural EngineersBioengineers and Biomedical EngineersChemical Engineers
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surveyors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surveyors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-1022.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, California, annual.