High School

Take mathematics courses, such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, as well as mechanical drawing in high school. Physics, chemistry, and biology are other valuable classes that will help you gain laboratory experience. Reading, writing, and comprehension skills as well as knowledge of computers are also vital in surveying and mapping, so English and computer science courses are also highly recommended.

Postsecondary Training

Though not required to enter the field, graduates of accredited postsecondary training programs for surveying, photogrammetry, geomatics, and mapping are in the best position to become surveying and mapping technicians. Postsecondary training is available from institutional programs and correspondence schools. These demanding technical programs generally last two years with a possible field study in the summer. First-year courses include English, composition, drafting, applied mathematics, surveying and measurements, construction materials and methods, applied physics, statistics, and computer applications. Second-year courses cover subjects such as technical physics, advanced surveying, photogrammetry and mapping, soils and foundations, technical reporting, legal issues, and transportation and environmental engineering. ABET offers a list of accredited programs at https://amspub.abet.org/aps.

With additional experience and study, technicians can specialize in geodesy, topography, hydrography, geographic information systems, or photogrammetry. Many graduates of two-year programs later pursue a bachelor's degree in surveying, engineering, or geomatics. 

Aspiring surveying and mapping technicians who do not attend college can train for the field by completing an apprenticeship with an experienced technician or surveyor. 

Other Education or Training

The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, National Society of Professional Surveyors, and state-level organizations offer webinars, seminars, and other continuing education opportunities.

Certification or Licensing

Many employers prefer certified technicians for promotions into higher positions with more responsibility. The National Society of Professional Surveyors offers the voluntary survey technician certification at four levels. With each level, the technician must have more experience and pass progressively challenging examinations. Technicians must be specially certified to work as surveyors in their state.

The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing offers voluntary certification for technicians who specialize in photogrammetry, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS)/land information systems.

Technicians who use GIS technology in their work can receive voluntary certification from the GIS Certification Institute. Applicants must have a baccalaureate degree in any field, complete course work and other documented education in GIS and geospatial data technologies, have work experience in a GIS-related position, and participate in conferences or GIS-related events. Applicants who meet all certification requirements may use the designation certified GIS professional. Certification must be renewed every five years.

No experience is required, but any surveying and mapping experience obtained via internships or other learning opportunities will be useful. 

Successful surveying and mapping technicians are patient, orderly, systematic, accurate, and objective in their work. They must be willing to work cooperatively and have the ability to think and plan ahead. Because of the increasing technical nature of their work, surveying and mapping technicians must have computer skills to be able to use highly complex equipment such as GPS and GIS technology.