Surveyors
Surveyors make precise measurements to determine property boundaries.
Is surveyors a good career?
It scores 20/100 and ranks #299 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays above the U.S. median wage ($75,440)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What surveyors earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. surveyors earn between $58,170 and $98,130 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Live surveyors jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- Internship/residency
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow as fast as average through 2034.
Education
Surveyors typically need a bachelor’s degree in land surveying or a related field, such as engineering or natural resources. Some colleges and universities offer programs that prepare students to become licensed surveyors.
In some cases, employers may hire candidates who have an associate’s degree and additional training.
Training
Entry-level surveyors often work under the direction of a licensed surveyor for several years before they qualify to obtain a license. This training may be in the form of an internship or apprenticeship.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
All 50 states and the District of Columbia require surveyors to be licensed before they can provide their services to the public. These services include certifying legal documents that show property lines or determine proper markings, such as for construction projects.
Prospective licensed surveyors may need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in order to sit for the licensing exam. Candidates typically work for several years under the direction of a licensed surveyor to qualify for licensure.
Important qualities
Communication skills. Surveyors must provide clear instructions to team members, clients, and government officials. Both written and oral communication are important.
Detail oriented. Surveyors must be precise and accurate in their work, which includes making measurements and producing maps, reports, and legally binding documents.
Physical stamina. Surveyors do fieldwork outdoors, often in rugged terrain. They must be able to walk long distances, sometimes while carrying heavy equipment, and may stand for long periods.
Problem-solving skills. Surveyors must reconcile discrepancies between information in documents and current conditions on the land.
Time-management skills. Surveyors must be able to effectively plan their own and their team’s work schedules to meet critical deadlines.
Visualization skills. Surveyors must be able to envision how terrain will look when it is moved or altered.
Related occupations
How much do surveyors make?
The national median wage is $75,440 a year, with the middle half earning between $58,170 and $98,130 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is surveyors a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 20 of 100 and ranks #299 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +4.4% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a surveyor?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do surveyors earn the most?
Among states, California pays the highest median ($105,330). Local pay for every state and metro is below.