Surveyors
Make exact measurements and determine property boundaries. Provide data relevant to the shape, contour, gravitation, location, elevation, or dimension of land or land features on or near the earth's surface for engineering, mapmaking, mining, land evaluation, construction, and other purposes.
SOC: 17-1022.00
Common Job Titles
County SurveyorLand SurveyorLicensed Land SurveyorSurveyor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign survey plans and measurement strategies for construction, mining, and land evaluation projects using CAD and GIS software.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize topographic and geodetic information into technical reports and maps using AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, and MicroStation software for client deliverables.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze geospatial data and property boundaries using GPS receivers, total stations, and laser scanners to determine legal land descriptions.Proficient
- KnowledgeCalculate elevation, contour, and dimensional land measurements applying advanced mathematical principles for engineering and construction projects.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate electronic theodolites, robotic total stations, and digital levels in diverse field environments to capture precise land feature data.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate survey data for compliance with legal standards and technical specifications referencing law and government regulations for property documentation.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform field data collection and boundary measurements using GPS systems, laser rangefinders, and measuring tapes under varying terrain conditions.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate client requirements with technical survey capabilities when consulting on land development and construction planning.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret legal property descriptions, deed records, and historical survey documents to resolve boundary disputes and establish accurate land ownership records.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for accurate measurement standards and ethical surveying practices when training field crews and coordinating with interdisciplinary project teams.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Surveyors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
53,080
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $43,680 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $116,330 |
| Workers on average earn | $76,730 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mathematics4.7/5
- Engineering and Technology4.3/5
- Geography4.0/5
- Computers and Electronics4.0/5
- Design3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Autodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DBentley MicroStationESRI ArcGIS softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
Autodesk AutoCAD Land DesktopBentley GeoPak BridgeBentley Systems InRoads SuiteCE SURVEYOR IIICMT Incorporated CogoCADCadcorp desktop GISCarlson SurvCADDCarlson SurvCE
Tools & Equipment
Abney levelsAltimetersAutomatic levelsAutomatic slope lasersBarometersClinometersCurvimetersDepth gauge tapes