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 Surveyor
Land Surveyor
Licensed Land Surveyor
Surveyor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,680. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,590. 50th percentile: U.S. $72,740. 75th percentile: U.S. $94,550. 90th percentile: U.S. $116,330. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
