Surveying and Mapping Technicians vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Civil Engineerss out-earn Surveying and Mapping Technicianss by $47K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Surveying and Mapping Technicianss land at $54,240 and Civil Engineerss 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 Technicianss is California ($78,110); for Civil Engineerss 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 Technicianss or Civil Engineerss?
Civil Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $54,240 for Surveying and Mapping Technicianss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $47K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Surveying and Mapping Technicians or Civil Engineers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
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 Technicianss get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Surveying and Mapping Technicianss 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 Technicianss earn $78,110 vs. $122,500 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.