Surveying and Mapping Technicians vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Civil Engineers out-earn Surveying and Mapping Technicians by $47K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Surveying and Mapping Technicians land at $54,240 and Civil Engineers at $100,840. The education gap is real: surveying and mapping technician programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Surveying and Mapping Technicians is California ($78,110); for Civil Engineers it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Surveying and Mapping Technicians median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Surveying and Mapping Technicians or Civil Engineers?
Civil Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $54,240 for Surveying and Mapping Technicians versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $47K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Surveying and Mapping Technicians or Civil Engineers?
Civil Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 5% projected growth, compared to 4.5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Surveying and Mapping Technicians or Civil Engineers?
Surveying and Mapping Technicians typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Surveying and Mapping Technicians get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Surveying and Mapping Technicians at $78,110/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Surveying and Mapping Technicians vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Surveying and Mapping Technicians earn $78,110 vs. $122,500 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.