Service Branches
Work Environment
Surveying mapping and drafting technicians work both indoors and outdoors in all climates and weather conditions. Those assigned to engineering units sometimes work outdoors with survey teams. Those assigned to intelligence units may work on ships as well as on land.
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Military Status
Enlisted
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Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$70,256
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
$22,748 - $291,238
Overview
Surveying, mapping, and drafting technicians help determine, describe, and record geographic areas or features. They conduct land surveys, take measurements, make maps, and prepare detailed plans and drawings for construction projects. They are also sometimes called upon to provide maps and surveys that locate military targets and help plot troop movements. These technicians play key roles in the field of geospatial information.
Military Training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field and covers tactical and survival skills physical training military life and customs and weapons training. Surveying mapping and drafting technicians in the Military will gain skills through classroom study simulated combat conditions and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:
- Surveying and drafting techniques
- Geospatial interpretation
- Architectural and structural drawing
- Methods of computing target locations
- Artillery tactics and field combat strategy
- Ammunition-handling techniques
- Gun missile and rocket system operations
- Aerial photo interpretation
Helpful Attributes
- Ability to convert ideas into drawings
- Interest in maps and charts
- Interest in working with drafting equipment and computers
- Interest in working with surveying equipment
Related Civilian Careers
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Construction Managers
- Civil Engineers
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