Surveying and Mapping Technicians

Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Set out and recover stakes, marks, or other monumentation.83
Search for section corners, property irons, or survey points.82
Calculate latitudes, longitudes, angles, areas, or other information for mapmaking, using survey field notes or reference tables.79
Enter Global Positioning System (GPS) data, legal deeds, field notes, or land survey reports into geographic information system (GIS) workstations so that information can be transformed into graphic land descriptions, such as maps and drawings.78
Adjust and operate surveying instruments such as prisms, theodolites, electronic distance measuring equipment, or electronic data collectors.77
Check all layers of maps to ensure accuracy, identifying and marking errors and making corrections.76
Collect information needed to carry out new surveys, using source maps, previous survey data, photographs, computer records, or other relevant information.76
Record survey measurements or descriptive data, using notes, drawings, sketches, or inked tracings.75
Conduct surveys to ascertain the locations of natural features and man-made structures on the Earth's surface, underground, and underwater, using electronic distance-measuring equipment, such as GPS, and other surveying instruments.75
Prepare topographic or contour maps of land surveyed, including site features and other relevant information, such as charts, drawings, and survey notes.75
Supervise or coordinate activities of workers engaged in surveying, plotting data, drafting maps, or producing blueprints, photostats, or photographs.74
Compile information necessary to stake projects for construction, using engineering plans.74

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Identify and compile database information to create requested maps.74
Monitor mapping work or the updating of maps to ensure accuracy, inclusion of new or changed information, or compliance with rules and regulations.73
Complete detailed source and method notes describing the location of routine or complex land parcels.73
Position and hold the vertical rods, or targets, that theodolite operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations.73
Design or develop information databases that include geographic or topographic data.73
Research and combine existing property information to describe property boundaries in relation to adjacent properties, taking into account parcel splits, combinations, or land boundary adjustments.72
Perform calculations to determine earth curvature corrections, atmospheric impacts on measurements, traverse closures or adjustments, azimuths, level runs, or placement of markers.72
Compare survey computations with applicable standards to determine adequacy of data.71
Provide assistance in the development of methods and procedures for conducting field surveys.71
Answer questions and provide information to the public or to staff members regarding assessment maps, surveys, boundaries, easements, property ownership, roads, zoning, or similar matters.70
Compare topographical features or contour lines with images from aerial photographs, old maps, or other reference materials to verify the accuracy of their identification.70
Operate and manage land-information computer systems, performing tasks such as storing data, making inquiries, and producing plots and reports.69
Produce or update overlay maps to show information boundaries, water locations, or topographic features on various base maps or at different scales.68
Trace contours or topographic details to generate maps that denote specific land or property locations or geographic attributes.65
Analyze aerial photographs to detect and interpret significant military, industrial, resource, or topographical data.63
Determine scales, line sizes, or colors to be used for hard copies of computerized maps, using plotters.63
Prepare cost estimates for mapping projects.60
Trim, align, and join prints to form photographic mosaics, maintaining scaled distances between reference points.59
Use drone technology to capture aerial images or videos for creating detailed and accurate maps.—
Write boundary or easement legal descriptions.—

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Reading Comprehension66
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Critical Thinking63
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving56
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Mathematics56
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Active Listening53
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.
Monitoring53
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Judgment and Decision Making50
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Speaking50
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning47
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Coordination47
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Systems Analysis47
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

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Writing47
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Learning Strategies44
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Personnel Resources44
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Social Perceptiveness44
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Operation and Control41
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Systems Evaluation41
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Instructing38
Teaching others how to do something.
Operations Monitoring38
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Programming38
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Quality Control Analysis38
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Service Orientation38
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Persuasion35
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Science35
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Negotiation31
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Equipment Selection25
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Technology Design25
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Equipment Maintenance22
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Management of Financial Resources22
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources19
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operations Analysis19
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Repairing19
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Troubleshooting19
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Installation3
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Geography77
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.
Mathematics74
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
English Language63
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Computers and Electronics60
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Customer and Personal Service60
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Design58
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Education and Training54
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Engineering and Technology54
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.
Administration and Management53
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Public Safety and Security51
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Law and Government50
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Building and Construction42
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

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Administrative40
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Production and Processing36
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
History and Archeology34
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Physics32
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Transportation32
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Telecommunications28
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Economics and Accounting27
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Personnel and Human Resources26
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Communications and Media24
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Mechanical24
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Sales and Marketing23
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Biology15
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Sociology and Anthropology15
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Psychology11
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Chemistry10
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Philosophy and Theology7
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Foreign Language5
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Therapy and Counseling5
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Fine Arts3
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Medicine and Dentistry3
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Deductive Reasoning66
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning66
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Near Vision66
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Comprehension66
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Flexibility of Closure63
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Information Ordering63
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Mathematical Reasoning63
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Written Comprehension63
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Category Flexibility56
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Far Vision56
The ability to see details at a distance.
Oral Expression56
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Perceptual Speed56
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.

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Problem Sensitivity56
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Speech Clarity56
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition56
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Written Expression56
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Visualization53
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Speed of Closure50
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Control Precision47
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Number Facility47
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Arm-Hand Steadiness44
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Visual Color Discrimination44
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Finger Dexterity41
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Fluency of Ideas41
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Manual Dexterity38
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Spatial Orientation38
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Originality35
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Auditory Attention31
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception31
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Multilimb Coordination31
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Trunk Strength31
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Extent Flexibility28
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Gross Body Coordination25
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Stamina25
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Wrist-Finger Speed25
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Gross Body Equilibrium22
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Peripheral Vision22
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Reaction Time22
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation22
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Dynamic Strength19
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Explosive Strength19
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity19
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Hearing Sensitivity19
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Rate Control19
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Static Strength19
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Night Vision13
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Sound Localization13
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Dynamic Flexibility3
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers84
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information83
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Documenting/Recording Information75
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates74
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Processing Information74
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems73
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge73
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Analyzing Data or Information71
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events65
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings65
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards63
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others62
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

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Training and Teaching Others62
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work61
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships60
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment58
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization55
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Developing Objectives and Strategies55
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Performing General Physical Activities55
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People54
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information53
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Scheduling Work and Activities53
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Coaching and Developing Others52
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials51
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment51
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others50
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Thinking Creatively50
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Performing Administrative Activities49
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public49
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Controlling Machines and Processes48
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates48
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Handling and Moving Objects47
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Developing and Building Teams46
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment46
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others45
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources45
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others43
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Assisting and Caring for Others35
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment31
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Staffing Organizational Units31
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Selling or Influencing Others28
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail91
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability76
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness56
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Integrity52
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Achievement Orientation47
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Intellectual Curiosity46
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Perseverance36
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Cooperation29
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Self-Confidence29
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Adaptability25
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Stress Tolerance25
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Initiative22
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

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Innovation22
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Self-Control18
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity12
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Sincerity3
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Social Orientation1
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic82
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.
Conventional77
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.
Investigative51
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.
Artistic15
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Enterprising0
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social0
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important92%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom52%
- Some freedom33%
- Very little freedom11%
E-Mail
- Every day68%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Never13%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day52%
- Once a week or more but not every day26%
- Once a month or more but not every week18%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom26%
- Some freedom54%
- Limited freedom19%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours52%
- 40 hours46%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day33%
- Once a week or more but not every day35%
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
Time Pressure
- Every day35%
- Once a week or more but not every day39%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually51%
- More than half the time18%
- Less than half the time11%
- Never11%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day39%
- Once a week or more but not every day37%
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results30%
- Important results30%
- Moderate results28%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day49%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never14%

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Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important36%
- Very important21%
- Important31%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Every day44%
- Once a week or more but not every day18%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important35%
- Very important14%
- Important37%
- Fairly important13%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day49%
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never13%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others29%
- Contact with others most of the time27%
- Contact with others about half the time15%
- Occasional contact with others29%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually25%
- More than half the time29%
- About half the time21%
- Less than half the time13%
- Never12%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility17%
- High responsibility38%
- Moderate responsibility21%
- Limited responsibility23%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important30%
- Very important17%
- Important22%
- Fairly important18%
- Not important at all14%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important18%
- Very important28%
- Important18%
- Fairly important24%
- Not important at all11%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually23%
- More than half the time20%
- About half the time13%
- Less than half the time40%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious14%
- Very serious27%
- Serious21%
- Fairly serious33%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility21%
- High responsibility22%
- Moderate responsibility25%
- Limited responsibility13%
- No responsibility19%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day25%
- Once a week or more but not every day26%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never23%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually20%
- More than half the time32%
- Less than half the time24%
- Never19%
Spend Time Standing
- Continually or almost continually13%
- More than half the time27%
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time31%
- Never15%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day17%
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never25%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive12%
- Highly competitive22%
- Moderately competitive29%
- Slightly competitive15%
- Not at all competitive23%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a week or more but not every day28%
- Once a month or more but not every week21%
- Once a year or more but not every month27%
- Never16%
Physical Proximity
- Moderately close (at arm's length)24%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)34%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)22%
- I don't work near other people (beyond 100 ft.)15%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Every day11%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a year or more but not every month39%
- Never17%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week37%
- Once a year or more but not every month19%
- Never23%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day11%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never31%
Conflict Situations
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Once a year or more but not every month48%
- Never15%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week29%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never30%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never48%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- About half the time17%
- Less than half the time32%
- Never31%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a month or more but not every week26%
- Once a year or more but not every month49%
- Never15%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated35%
- Slightly automated31%
- Not at all automated32%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time50%
- Never35%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
- Never59%
Public Speaking
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month22%
- Never54%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Important13%
- Fairly important22%
- Not important at all58%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a year or more but not every month33%
- Never54%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
- Never55%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)33%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)67%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- About half the time12%
- Less than half the time35%
- Never52%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month26%
- Never64%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Never76%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never80%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
- Never70%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Once a year or more but not every month23%
- Never75%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never84%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time23%
- Never77%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never89%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never94%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

High school diploma or equivalent
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Master’s degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, Computer aided design and drafting software CADD
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Analytical or scientific software
Coordinate geometry COGO software, Modeling software, Tripod Data Systems software, Triton Elics International Isis
Map creation software
Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE, Mapping software, TELEDYNE CARIS, Tripod Data Systems COGO
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, ESRI Personal Geodatabase, Geographic information system GIS software, Geographic information system GIS systems
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Bentley GeoPak Bridge, Graphics software
Development environment software
Microsoft Visual Basic, Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA, Microsoft Visual Basic Scripting Edition VBScript, Software libraries
Electronic mail software
Email software, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Data base user interface and query software
Database software, Microsoft Access, Structured query language SQL
Word processing software
Adobe Acrobat Writer, Microsoft Word
Web platform development software
Hypertext markup language HTML, JavaScript
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Categorization or classification software
PCI Geomatics eCognition
Mobile location based services software
Global positioning system GPS software
Document management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Desktop publishing software
QuarkXPress
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Data base reporting software
MicroSurvey Star*Net
Object or component oriented development software
Python
Internet browser software
Web browser software
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Survey land or bodies of water to measure or determine features.
Determine geographic coordinates.
Calculate geographic positions from survey data.
Create graphical representations of structures or landscapes.
Enter codes or other information into computers.
Survey land or properties.
Gather physical survey data.
Evaluate designs or specifications to ensure quality.
Create maps.
Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
Develop software or computer applications.
Document technical design details.

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Monitor processes for compliance with standards.
Assist engineers or scientists with research.
Verify mathematical calculations.
Explain project details to the general public.
Operate computer systems.
Estimate costs for projects or productions.
Prepare maps.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Chief of Party (Prof & Kin)
Geodetic Computator
Photogrammetric Technician
Surveyor Assistant Instrument

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology