How to Become a Surveying and Mapping Technicians in California
Surveying and Mapping Technicians in California earn a median salary of $71,860/year, which is 38% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a surveying and mapping technicians takes home approximately $3,262/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a surveying and mapping technicians can afford in California
Becoming a surveying and mapping technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Surveying and Mapping Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many surveying and mapping technicians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for surveying and mapping technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 3,670 surveying and mapping technicians. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.
Surveying and Mapping Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $95K | $45.74/hr | 190 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $80K | $38.41/hr | 810 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $79K | $37.75/hr | 480 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $76K | $36.48/hr | 70 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $75K | $36.25/hr | 50 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $75K | $35.88/hr | 40 |
| Vallejo | $72K | $34.73/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $72K | $34.68/hr | 260 |
| Modesto | $63K | $30.36/hr | 50 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $63K | $30.23/hr | 490 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $63K | $30.12/hr | 60 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $62K | $29.88/hr | 390 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $62K | $29.6/hr | 50 |
| Fresno | $60K | $28.84/hr | 100 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $56K | $26.77/hr | 70 |
Surveying and Mapping Technicians salary range in California
Surveying and Mapping Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a surveying and mapping technicians make in California?▼
The median surveying and mapping technicians salary in California is $71,860 per year ($34.55/hr). This is 38% above the national median of $51,940. Salaries range from $44,920 to $115,050.
What are the requirements to become a surveying and mapping technicians in California?▼
Surveying and Mapping Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a surveying and mapping technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $71,860, a surveying and mapping technicians in California would take home approximately $4,674/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for surveying and mapping technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for surveying and mapping technicians in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($95,150), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($79,880), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($78,520). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for surveying and mapping technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $71,860 salary, this means roughly $2,847/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.