FAQ
Surveying Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a surveying technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a surveying technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about surveying technicians
Do survey techs need a degree?
No; most learn on the job.
Can techs become surveyors?
Yes, with education, experience and exams.
Is the work outdoors?
Mostly, with some office time.
How much does a surveying technician make?
The median annual wage for surveying technicians was $54,240 ($26.08 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,520 and the highest 10% earned more than $81,630.
How long does it take to become a surveying technician?
Most people need about 1–12 months of training. A high school diploma is typical, plus on-the-job training. Certificates in surveying help.
Do you need a degree to be a surveying technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is surveying technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.8% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 6,900 openings each year. Upsides include outdoors with technology; a common challenge is that weather and terrain.
What skills does a surveying technician need?
Key technical skills include total stations, gps, field notes, and construction staking. Employers also value attention to detail, teamwork, and stamina.
What certifications are available for surveying technicians?
Common credentials include NSPS Certified Survey Technician (CST), FAA Part 107, GIS certificate, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Surveying Technician fit quiz, compare with Surveyor, or explore Surveying Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-3031 (Surveying and mapping technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Surveying and mapping technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.