Surveying and mapping technicians
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$51,940
~$25/hr · ~$4,328/mo
US Jobs
59K
Faster than average
AI & Automation Risk
5/10
Moderate
AI & Automation Risk
Moderate 5/10
This occupation is a hybrid of physical fieldwork and digital data processing. While AI and automation (via drones and GIS software) significantly enhance data analysis, map creation, and calculation tasks, the role still requires a physical presence to navigate rugged terrain, set markers, and operate equipment in the real world.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CABEST VALUE | $95,150 | Above avg (113.1) | $84,160 |
| Reno, NV | $81,300 | Average (98.0) | $82,938 |
| Las Vegas-Henderson-North Las Vegas, NV | $75,300 | Average (98.3) | $76,613 |
| New Orleans-Metairie, LA | $67,970 | Below avg (91.2) | $74,533 |
| Bismarck, ND | $63,790 | Below avg (89.4) | $71,390 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $69,940 | Average (98.1) | $71,285 |
| Toledo, OH | $64,060 | Below avg (90.6) | $70,688 |
| Santa Fe, NM | $66,290 | Below avg (94.1) | $70,473 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | $72,080 | Above avg (103.3) | $69,782 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | $79,880 | Above avg (114.7) | $69,613 |
| Duluth, MN-WI | $60,660 | Below avg (87.2) | $69,579 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | $74,630 | Above avg (107.6) | $69,379 |
| Farmington, NM | $60,210 | Below avg (87.0) | $69,191 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $75,870 | Above avg (111.0) | $68,338 |
| Anchorage, AK | $72,300 | Above avg (106.8) | $67,715 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
10-Year Growth
+5% (Faster than average)
Hourly Rate
~$25/hr
Monthly Income
~$4,328/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)