The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Surveying and Mapping Technicians. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT SURVEYING & MAPPING TECHNICIANS DO
Surveying and mapping technicians collect data and make maps of the Earth’s surface. Surveying technicians visit sites to take measurements of the land. Mapping technicians use geographic data to create maps.
Job Duties of Surveying Technicians
Job Duties of Mapping Technicians
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $48,500
Top 5 States
1. California
$71,410
2. Alaska
$70,050
3. Rhode Island
$67,910
4. Connecticut
$62,300
5. Massachusetts
$58,990
Bottom 5 States
50. Michigan
$38,920
49. South Carolina
$39,700
48. Mississippi
$39,840
47. South Dakota
$39,890
46. Indiana
$41,740
STEPS TO BECOME A SURVEYING OR MAPPING TECHNICIAN
To become a surveying technician, they usually need a high school diploma. However, mapping technicians often need formal education after high school to study technology applications, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
After that, surveying and mapping technicians are trained on the job. Initially, surveying technicians handle simple tasks, such as placing markers on land and entering data into computers. With experience, they help decide where and how to measure the land.
Mapping technicians receive on-the-job training under the supervision of a lead mapper. During training, technicians learn how maps are created and stored in databases.
The growing need to make sure that data are useful to other professionals has caused certification to become more common. The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) offers certification for photogrammetry, remote-sensing, and Geographic Information/Land Information Systems (GIS/LIS). The National Society of Professional Surveyors offers the Certified Survey Technician credential, and the GIS Certification Institute offers a GIS Professional certification.
1. Enroll in a GIS Program
Surveying technicians often don’t need any formal training. Mapping technicians, however, usually need to attend a post-secondary program to learn about technology applications.
2. Get Certification
3. Find a Job as a Surveying or Mapping Technician
QUALITIES OF SURVEYING & MAPPING TECHNICIANS
Decision- Making Skills
Surveying technicians must be able to exercise some independent judgment in the field because they may not always be able to communicate with team members.
Problem-Solving Skills
Surveying and mapping technicians must be able to identify and fix problems with their equipment. They must also note potential problems with the day’s work plan.
Physical Stamina
Surveying technicians usually work outdoors, often in rugged terrain. Physical fitness is necessary to carry equipment and to stand most of the day.
Listening Skills
Surveying technicians work outdoors and must communicate with party chiefs and other team members across distances. Following instructions from the party chief is crucial for saving time and preventing errors.
Detail Oriented
Surveying and mapping technicians must be precise and accurate in their work. Their results are often entered into legal records.