Employment of surveying and mapping technicians is projected to decline 8 percent from 2014 to 2024. Advancements in surveying technology, such as robotic total stations, let surveyors and surveying technicians complete more work in less time, reducing the demand for surveying technicians.

Job Prospects

Some job openings will result from the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. Demand for surveying services is closely tied to construction activity, and job opportunities will vary by geographic region, often depending on local economic conditions. When real estate sales and construction activity slow down, surveying technicians may face greater competition for jobs. However, because surveying technicians can work on many different types of projects, they may have steadier work than others when construction slows.

Prospects should be best for those who are trained in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).