Geodetic Surveyors

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 Positioning System and Geographic Information Systems, will provide jobs to surveyors with strong technical and computer skills. This same technology, however, will also reduce the numbers of surveyors needed, because the technology enables them to accomplish more work in less time. Geodetic surveyors who are well versed in global navigation satellite systems and numerous software programs, including scientific, computer-aided design, and map-creation programs, will have the best job prospects.

Employment opportunities will also arise due to growth in urban and suburban areas. The state and federal highway improvement programs and local urban redevelopment programs also will provide jobs for geodetic surveyors. Industrial and business firm expansions and re-locations to large, undeveloped tracts will also create job openings. The construction industry will also provide job opportunities for surveyors but job growth is closely tied to the state of the economy. Employment may fluctuate from year to year.