Geodetic Surveyors
Overview
Introduction
Geodetic surveyors make exact measurements and locations of elevations, points, lines, and contours on or near Earths surface. They measure distances between points to determine property boundaries and to provide data for mapmaking, construction projects, and other engineering purposes. They use satellite observations, global navigation satellite systems, and other related sources for their measurements. There are approximately 50,740 surveyors employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Geodetic surveyors employed in the United States in November 2024 earned an average base salary of $90,492, as reported by SalaryExpert.com. Salaries ranged from $65,086 or less to $111,484 or more. In May 2023, surveyors earned a median annual salary of $68,540, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The middle 50 percent earned between $50,970 and $91,520 a year. The lowest paid 10 percen...
Work Environment
Geodetic surveyors work full time, usually 40 hours per week. They may work longer hours on occasion to meet project deadlines. The summer months are the peak work period, with favorable weather conditions, but it is not uncommon for geodetic surveyors to be exposed to adverse conditions even when the weather is fine. They may conduct surveys in areas where they may be exposed to snakes, poison...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment for surveyors will grow by 6 percent (faster than the average for all occupations) through 2033. Growth in the field will continue due to the increase in construction and infrastructure projects, and the demand for surveyors to help establish boundary lines in specific areas.
The widespread use of technology, such as the Global Positi...
