1373 - Land Surveying Series

Show All / Hide All

Federal Occupation Description

Federal Occupation Description

This series includes positions that involve professional work in land surveying, which is concerned with establishing, investigating, and reestablishing land and property boundaries, and with preparing plats and legal descriptions for tracts of land. The work requires application of professional knowledge of the concepts, principles and techniques of surveying, including underlying mathematics and physical science, in combination with a practical knowledge of land ownership laws.

For job opportunities in this series, go to the Office of Personnel Management USAJOBS website.

Other Federal Occupations

It is not uncommon for individuals in one federal occupational series to perform duties related to another series within the same federal occupational group. To find out about the certifications for another series in the PHYSICAL SCIENCES GROUP, click on that series below. Note that credentials have not yet been identified for all series – links are provided only to those series for which the identification of credentials has been completed. Additional series will be added over time.

  • 1301 - General Physical Science Series
  • 1306 - Health Physics
  • 1310 - Physics
  • 1311 - Physical Science Technician
  • 1313 - Geophysics Series
  • 1315 - Hydrology Series
  • 1316 - Hydrologic Technician Series
  • 1320 - Chemistry Series
  • 1321 - Metallurgy Series
  • 1330 - Astronomy and Space Science Series
  • 1340 - Meteorology Series
  • 1341 - Meteorological Technician Series
  • 1350 - Geology Series
  • 1360 - Oceanography Series
  • 1361 - Navigational Information Series
  • 1370 - Cartography Series
  • 1371 - Cartographic Technician Series
  • 1372 - Geodesy Series
  • 1374 - Geodetic Technician Series
  • 1380 - Forest Products Technology Series
  • 1382 - Food Technology Series
  • 1384 - Textile Technology Series
  • 1386 - Photographic Technology Series
  • 1397 - Document Analysis Series
  • 1399 - Physical Science Student Trainee Series

The following certifications have been identified as most relevant to the broad duties of this federal occupational series. Please note that these credentials may not reflect all of the unique job functions that you perform within your organization. Also these credentials may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about any credential, click on the credential title below.

Compare Credential Agency Related As GI Bill® Accreditation ID
Certified Mapping Scientist, GIS/LIS (ASPRS) Is Not In Demand ASPRS: The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society someSome    
Certified Mapping Scientist, Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Is Not In Demand ASPRS: The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society someSome    
Certified Photogrammetrist (ASPRS) Is Not In Demand ASPRS: The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society someSome    
Certified Remote Sensing Technologist Is Not In Demand ASPRS: The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society someSome    
Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Is Not In Demand National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) mostMost GI BillGI Bill  
PS Principles and Practice of Land Surveying (PS) Is Not In Demand National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) mostMost GI BillGI Bill  
Certified GIS/LIS Technologist Is Not In Demand ASPRS: The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society someSome    
Certified Photogrammetric Technologist Is Not In Demand ASPRS: The Imaging & Geospatial Information Society someSome    
Professional Surveyor License Is Not In Demand National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) mostMost GI BillGI Bill  
Registered Landman (RL) Is Not In Demand American Association of Professional Landmen someSome    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Level I Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost GI BillGI Bill  
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level II Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III - Party Chief, Boundary Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level IV - Field Manager Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level IV - Office Manager Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level III - Chief Computer Operator Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level II Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    
Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III - Party Chief, Construction Is Not In Demand National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) mostMost    

State Licenses

Some states have specific licensing requirements for the following related civilian occupations. These state licenses may require additional education, training or experience. Click on the occupation below to get more information on state requirements from the U.S. Department of Labor.

Related Civilian Private Sector Occupations

The following civilian private sector occupations are similar to the duties performed by 1373 - Land Surveying Series. These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the civilian occupation below.

Civilian Job Duties Matched Bright Outlook Registered Apprenticeship Local Salary Info
Surveying Technicians someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook  Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Surveyors mostMost Bright OutlookBright Outlook    find local salaryfind local salary
Top
This is an official U.S. Navy websiteUpdated: October 16, 2019
Click here to go to Certified Mapping Scientist, GIS/LIS (ASPRS) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Certified Mapping Scientist, GIS/LIS certification is for professionals involved in GIS/LIS systems design and/or systems application of data base management and computer programs that allow for the utilization of spatially referenced databases for solving user analysis requirements. They are responsible for the integration of data needs and the development of correspondence between the utilization of various spatial systems of often-different generic origins that are used to solve requirements. Requirements include the following: 1) three years of experience in mapping sciences or photogrammetry in a position of responsibility demonstrating professional knowledge of and competence in mapping science and mapping procedures; 2) three years of professional experience in the Geographic or Land Information Systems, during which professional knowledge and competence in those systems were demonstrated; 3) references from four persons who are holding, or who have held, responsible positions in the mapping sciences and in the Geographic or Land Information Systems area and have first-hand knowledge of the applicants professional and personal qualifications; 4) declaration of compliance with the Code of Ethics of the ASPRS; and 5) the successful completion of a written examination.

Click here to go to Certified Mapping Scientist, Remote Sensing (ASPRS) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Certified Mapping Scientist, Remote Sensing certification is for professionals who specialize in analysis of images acquired from aircraft, satellites or ground bases, or platforms using visual or computer-assisted technology. Analysis is used by various specialized disciplines in the study of natural resources, temporal changes, and for land use planning. They develop analytical techniques and sensor systems. Candidates must have 1) three years of experience in photogrammetric and/or cartographic applications, all of which have been in a position of responsibility that demonstrated knowledge and competence in planning and application; and 2) three years of specialized experience at a professional level in remote sensing and interpretation of data from various imaging systems and/or design of remote sensing systems. Candidates must also submit references from four persons who are holding or who have held responsible positions in the mapping sciences and remote sensing and have first-hand knowledge of the applicants professional and personal qualifications, declare compliance with the Code of Ethics of the ASPRS, and successfully complete a written examination.

Click here to go to Certified Photogrammetrist (ASPRS) COOL Snapshot page.

Certified Photogrammetrist (ASPRS). A Certified Photogrammetrist is a professional who uses photogrammetric technology to extract measurements, make maps, and interpret data from images. The Photogrammetrist is responsible for all phases of mapping and other mensuration requirements, which include planning and supervising survey activities for control, specifying photography or other imagery requirements, managing projects for mapping or other mensuration requirements and interpretation. The ASPRS Certification Program has as its purpose the establishment and maintenance of high standards of ethical conduct and professional practice among photogrammetrists, mapping scientists, and technologists. The certification is applicable to persons associated with one or more functional areas of photogrammetry and the mapping sciences, and is open to all qualified individuals who have six years of experience in photogrammetry, three years of which were in a position of professional responsibility demonstrating professional knowledge and competence. Candidates must have references from four persons who are holding, or who have held, responsible positions in photogrammetry and have first-hand knowledge of the applicant's professional and personal qualifications. Candidates must also pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Certified Remote Sensing Technologist COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified Remote Sensing Technologist certification is designed for technicians who perform or supervise tasks to interpret, manipulate, extract, process and convert remotely sensed data from photographic or digital imagery and other remotely sensed data. Candidates are required to have a total of three years of experience, of which two are in a specialty category. Candidates must also submit four references from persons knowledgeable of their work experience and personal conduct, declare compliance with the Code of Ethics of the ASPRS, and successfully complete a written examination following peer review and approval.

Click here to go to Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to PS Principles and Practice of Land Surveying (PS) COOL Snapshot page.

The PS exam tests an applicant's ability to practice the surveying profession competently. It is designed for surveyors who have gained at least four years of professional experience.

Click here to go to Certified GIS/LIS Technologist COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified GIS/LIS Technologist certification is designed for technicians who integrate a variety of spatial data sets into a GIS format designed for graphic output or analysis. Candidates are required to have a total of three years of experience, of which two are in a specialty category. Candidates must also submit four references from persons knowledgeable of the applicant's work experience and personal conduct, comply with the Code of Ethics of the ASPRS, and successfully complete a written examination following peer review and approval.

Click here to go to Certified Photogrammetric Technologist COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Certified Photogrammetric Technologist certification is designed for technicians who perform or supervise technical photogrammetric tasks to extract spatial data from photographic or digital imagery and other remotely sensed data.Candidates must have a total of three years of experience, of which two are in a specialty category. Candidates must also submit four references rom persons knowledgeable of their work experience and personal conduct, declare compliance with the Code of Ethics of the ASPRS, and successfully complete a written examination following peer review and approval.

Click here to go to Professional Surveyor License COOL Snapshot page.

In the United States, surveyors are licensed at the state-level by professional licensing boards. Surveying boards confer the P.S. license when licensure applicants meet a combination of requirements in education, experience, and exams. Before registering for an upcoming NCEES surveying exam, review the appropriate state's unique approval and registration process.

Click here to go to Registered Landman (RL) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Level I COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Level I is an entry-level credential for professionals who have basic knowledge of field operations and procedures used in survey work; additional skills required include computational ability, survey note taking, drafting/CAD and map reading. Candidates for the CST Level I credential should be familiar with various types of surveys and survey field equipment. In addition to surveyor skills, candidates are required to demonstrate knowledge of basic first aid and safety requirements. Candidates for the CST are required to pass the written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level II COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level II is an intermediate-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey field operations and procedures used in survey work. Candidates for the CST Field Track Level II credential should be familiar with various types of surveys and survey field equipment, types of surveys and field operations, and demonstrating detailed knowledge of survey computations. Candidates should have knowledge of the principles of the profession and the ability to use hardware and software-based tools needed in survey work. Candidates are also expected to be familiar with comprehensive field note taking, plan reading and preparation. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III - Party Chief, Boundary COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III -Party Chief, Boundary is an advanced-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey field operations and procedures used in survey work. Level III Technicians are required to have 3.5 years of progressive surveying experience and are capable of demonstrating a thorough knowledge of survey computations, types of surveys and field operations. The CST - Field Track Level III - Party Chief, Boundary certification requires candidates to possesses supervisory skills and detailed working knowledge of standard field and office procedures. Candidates must understand the principles of surveying and related technical standards. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level IV - Field Manager COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level IV - Field Manager is a senior-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey field operations and procedures used in survey work. Level IV Technicians are required to have 5.5 years of progressive surveying experience of which 2 years must be in a supervisory capacity. Candidates demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of surveys and field operations; candidates possess skill in independent judgment, communication and supervision. Candidates understand day to day operational functions of field and office survey organizations. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level IV - Office Manager COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level IV - Office Manager is a senior-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey office operations and procedures used in survey work. Level IV Technicians are required to have 5.5 years of progressive surveying experience of which 2 years must be in a supervisory capacity. Candidates demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of surveys and office operations; candidates possess skill in independent judgment, communication and supervision. Candidates understand day to day operational functions of field and office survey organizations. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level III - Chief Computer Operator COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level III - Chief Computer Operator is an advanced-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey procedures and survey field operations. Level III Technicians are required to have 3.5 years of progressive surveying experience and demonstrate knowledge of survey computations, types of surveys and office operations. Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level III - Chief Computer Operator certification requires candidates to possesses supervisory skills and detailed working knowledge of standard office and field procedures. Candidates understand the principles of surveying and related technical standards. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level II COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Office Track Level II is an intermediate-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey field operations and procedures used in survey work. Candidates for the CST Field Office Level II credential should be familiar with various types of surveys and survey field equipment, field operations, and demonstrating detailed knowledge of survey computations. Candidates must have knowledge of the principles of the profession and the ability to use hardware and software-based tools needed in survey work. Candidates are expected to be familiar with comprehensive field note taking, plan reading and preparation. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

Click here to go to Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III - Party Chief, Construction COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III -Party Chief, Construction is an advanced-level credential for professionals who have experience and education in survey field operations and procedures used in survey work. Level III Technicians are required to have 3.5 years of progressive surveying experience and are capable of demonstrating a thorough knowledge of survey computations, types of surveys and field operations. Certified Survey Technician (CST) - Field Track Level III -Party Chief, Construction certification requires candidates to possesses supervisory skills and detailed working knowledge of standard field and office procedures. Candidates must understand the principles of surveying and related technical standards. Candidates must take and pass an exam.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand

GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill. Click for external link to GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click here to go to the GI Bill site.

ANSI

This credential has been accredited by ANSI. Click for external link to the ANSI web site.

ICAC

This credential has been accredited by ICAC. Click for external link to the ICAC web site.

NCCA

This credentialing program has been accredited by NCCA. Click for external link to the NCCA web site.

ABSNC

This credential has been accredited by ABSNC. Click for external link to the ABSNC web site.

IAS

This credential has been accredited by IAS. Click for external link to the IAS web site.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job
Registered Apprenticeship
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Surveying Technicians
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move salary info for Surveying Technicians
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Surveyors
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move salary info for Surveyors