Surveying and Mapping Technicians

Aerotriangulation Specialist
Geospatial Analyst
Mapping Editor
Mapping Technician
Photogrammetric Compilation Specialist
Photogrammetric Technician
Stereoplotter Operator
Survey Technician
Tax Map Technician

What is a Surveying and Mapping Technician?

Surveying and Mapping Technicians assist surveyors in the collection, analysis, and management of data regarding land and natural resources. They play a critical role in translating field measurements into detailed maps and reports that are essential for construction projects, land development, and environmental assessments. These technicians operate specialized equipment, such as GPS devices and total stations, to gather precise geographical data and often work closely with surveyors to ensure accurate plotting, verification, and documentation of surveying results. Their work aids in determining property boundaries, land layouts, and the features of the terrain, thereby supporting various industries including real estate, construction, engineering, and urban planning.

Career Assessment
Career Assessment

Tasks

  • Position and hold the vertical rods, or targets, that theodolite operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations.
  • Check all layers of maps to ensure accuracy, identifying and marking errors and making corrections.
  • Design or develop information databases that include geographic or topographic data.
  • Monitor mapping work or the updating of maps to ensure accuracy, inclusion of new or changed information, or compliance with rules and regulations.
  • Produce or update overlay maps to show information boundaries, water locations, or topographic features on various base maps or at different scales.

Technology Skills

Knowledge

  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

  • Geography

    Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.

  • Mathematics

    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

  • English Language

    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

  • Engineering and Technology

    Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Mathematics

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Writing

    Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Abilities

  • Written Comprehension

    The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

  • Near Vision

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Inductive Reasoning

    The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

  • Oral Comprehension

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

  • Oral Expression

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

No education information available.

Work Activities

  • Working with Computers

    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

  • Documenting/Recording Information

    Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

  • Getting Information

    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

  • Analyzing Data or Information

    Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Survey land or bodies of water to measure or determine features.
  • Evaluate designs or specifications to ensure quality.
  • Develop software or computer applications.
  • Monitor processes for compliance with standards.
  • Create maps.

Work Interests

  • Realistic

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

  • Conventional

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

  • Investigative

    Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

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Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$35080.0 - $79150.0

This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

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Assessment

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