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Surveying and Mapping Technicians

SOC 17-3031.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers field surveying support, GIS-based mapping, spatial database management, and cartographic production as performed by technicians in engineering, government, and consulting environments calibrated to Job Zone 3 preparation and experience.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Vertical rods and survey targets — position and hold under direct supervision during field measurements for theodolite operators on active construction or boundary survey sites.
  2. Map layer accuracy — check individual layers for obvious errors under technician guidance, flagging discrepancies on printed or digital base maps in an office setting.
  3. CAD and mapping software — identify basic tools and functions under direction to support map production tasks in an entry-level technician role.
  4. Engineering plans and field notes — read and interpret basic symbols and notations under supervision to assist with staking projects for construction layout.
  5. Geographic information system (GIS) software — enter and retrieve pre-defined data records under guidance to support database maintenance workflows.
  6. Survey field measurements — record distance, angle, and elevation readings accurately in field notebooks or data collectors as directed by a licensed surveyor.
  7. Map scales and coordinate systems — recognize standard scale conventions and apply them to locate features on base maps with assistance from senior staff.
  8. Standard surveying protocols — follow established safety and procedural checklists on field assignments to ensure compliance with site requirements.
  9. Word processing and email software — draft routine field reports and transmit data files under supervision within an office or hybrid work environment.
  10. Mathematics and measurement conversions — perform basic arithmetic and unit conversions as directed to support calculations on surveying and mapping tasks.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Map overlay production — compile and update overlay maps showing boundary lines, water locations, and topographic features at multiple scales using GIS or CAD software with limited oversight.
  2. Database information — identify, compile, and query relevant geographic or topographic records to fulfill routine map requests using database user interface software.
  3. Hard-copy map output — determine appropriate scales, line weights, and colors for plotter-generated maps based on project specifications and established cartographic standards.
  4. Map accuracy review — check all layers of digital and printed maps independently, marking and correcting errors to meet project compliance requirements.
  5. Construction staking data — compile survey information from engineering plans and field measurements to prepare staking packages for routine construction projects.
  6. GIS geodatabases — enter, edit, and validate geographic data in enterprise or desktop GIS environments to maintain current and accurate spatial datasets.
  7. Field equipment operation — set up and operate total stations, GPS receivers, and data collectors with reduced oversight on standard topographic and boundary survey assignments.
  8. Technical writing — produce clear field reports, survey notes, and data summaries using word processing software for internal project documentation.
  9. Map monitoring tasks — track progress of routine map updates, comparing revised versions against source data to confirm inclusion of new or changed information.
  10. Critical thinking in the field — evaluate field conditions and minor inconsistencies in collected data, selecting appropriate corrective actions within familiar survey contexts.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Geographic and topographic databases — design and develop structured spatial databases incorporating diverse geographic datasets to support multi-project mapping programs.
  2. Complex map layer audits — perform comprehensive accuracy reviews across all map layers autonomously, resolving non-routine conflicts between datasets and regulatory requirements.
  3. Overlay map systems — produce and maintain advanced overlay maps integrating boundary, hydrological, and topographic data across varying scales for regulatory or engineering deliverables.
  4. Plotter and output specifications — independently determine and document optimal scale, symbology, and color schemes for hard-copy map production across a range of project types.
  5. Construction staking packages — compile and verify complete staking data from complex engineering plans, coordinating with project engineers to resolve discrepancies before field deployment.
  6. Mapping compliance monitoring — oversee the updating of maps across an active project portfolio, ensuring adherence to agency regulations, client standards, and data currency requirements.
  7. Analytical and scientific software — apply spatial analysis tools to interpret survey datasets, identify anomalies, and generate accurate mapping products for engineering and planning clients.
  8. Non-routine problem solving — diagnose and resolve complex positional errors, data conflicts, or equipment anomalies encountered during field surveys or GIS processing workflows.
  9. Client and stakeholder communication — present mapping findings and technical results clearly to non-technical clients, responding accurately to questions about spatial data and map interpretation.
  10. Active learning in evolving technology — evaluate and integrate emerging GIS platforms, mobile location-based services, or web mapping tools into existing workflows to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Mapping and surveying standards — establish and enforce organizational quality standards for map production, field data collection, and database design across all project types and teams.
  2. Geographic information system strategy — lead the selection, configuration, and governance of enterprise GIS and CAD platforms to align spatial data infrastructure with organizational goals.
  3. Database architecture — direct the design of enterprise geographic and topographic databases, setting schema standards, data governance policies, and integration protocols for multi-department use.
  4. Mapping program oversight — provide executive-level monitoring of firm-wide mapping update cycles, ensuring accuracy, regulatory compliance, and on-time delivery across concurrent projects.
  5. Technical staff development — mentor and evaluate emerging and developing technicians through structured coaching, peer review, and training programs tied to surveying and GIS competencies.
  6. Complex problem leadership — lead cross-functional teams in diagnosing and resolving high-stakes spatial data errors or project failures with significant client or regulatory implications.
  7. Organizational process improvement — analyze existing field and office workflows for surveying and mapping operations, designing process improvements that reduce error rates and increase throughput.
  8. Regulatory and compliance leadership — interpret and apply federal, state, and local surveying regulations and cartographic standards at the organizational level, advising leadership on compliance risk.
  9. Interdisciplinary coordination — coordinate surveying and mapping deliverables with engineering, environmental, and planning disciplines across large infrastructure or land development programs.
  10. Strategic technology adoption — evaluate and advocate for investment in advanced surveying and mapping technologies, presenting business cases to leadership and guiding firm-wide implementation.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted map review — runs draft overlay maps through an AI tool to flag potential layer misalignments or missing topographic features, then manually verifies each flagged item against source data Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Basic query delegation — uses AI chat assistants to interpret technical surveying standards or regulatory language in project specifications, cross-checking the output against official documentation before applying it WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Database schema drafting — directs an AI tool to generate initial structures for geographic or topographic information databases, then reviews and adjusts field definitions to match project requirements WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Error annotation assistance — feeds exported map layers into an AI-powered review tool to surface coordinate discrepancies or boundary conflicts, confirming each correction against field measurements before committing changes Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Topographic feature extraction — directs an AI model to parse large elevation datasets and classify terrain features, retaining authorship of the final cartographic decisions and scale selections Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Compliance cross-referencing — uses an AI assistant to compare map update records against applicable rules and regulations, then applies critical judgment to resolve ambiguous compliance findings the tool cannot adjudicate Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Technical report drafting — delegates first-draft narrative sections of survey reports to an AI writing assistant, editing for accuracy against field notes and mathematical calculations before submission WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Automated QA pipeline design — architects an AI-assisted quality-assurance workflow that continuously monitors incoming map layers for accuracy and regulatory compliance, defining the logic rules and override criteria that govern automated flagging Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Multi-source data fusion — orchestrates AI tools to integrate disparate geospatial datasets—aerial imagery, LiDAR, and field measurements—into a unified topographic product, maintaining geodetic accuracy standards throughout and resolving conflicts the AI cannot resolve autonomously Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. AI tool evaluation and adoption — benchmarks competing AI-assisted GIS and mapping platforms against occupational accuracy requirements, recommending adoption decisions and establishing validation protocols for the team WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Reading Comprehension
Score: 45.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Computational Thinking
computational_thinking
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Survey field notes — records rod readings and instrument settings in standardized field notebooks during data collection sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Map legend communication — labels geographic features and boundary lines using prescribed symbology on base maps under supervisor direction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Technical report drafting — writes clear descriptions of survey control points, benchmarks, and project boundaries for engineering plan submittals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew coordination — relays instrument readings, elevation calls, and distance measurements verbally to surveying team members across field sites Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Client query response — explains map scale selections and topographic feature representations to non-technical stakeholders in accessible language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Survey documentation — authors complete and accurate field reports describing traverse closures, elevation data, and staking layouts for construction projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Database metadata communication — writes structured descriptions of geographic database layers, coordinate systems, and data sources for internal and external users O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory compliance reporting — compiles and presents written compliance documentation verifying that mapping updates meet jurisdictional rules and standards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-disciplinary briefing — presents survey findings, map accuracy assessments, and GIS database structures to engineers, planners, and regulatory agencies with authority and clarity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Standard operating procedure authorship — develops written field and office protocols for data collection, map checking, and database updating adopted across the technician team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Rod person initiative — proactively positions target rods at designated survey stations without waiting for repeated direction from the instrument operator Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Task ownership — accepts responsibility for assigned map layer checks and reports discrepancies to senior technicians before project deadlines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Field crew guidance — directs junior rod persons on proper target positioning and safety protocols during theodolite measurement sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality checkpoint leadership — leads map accuracy verification reviews, identifying errors across multiple overlay layers and coordinating corrections O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Project staking coordination — leads field teams through construction staking workflows, distributing tasks based on engineering plan requirements and crew skill levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Database project management — oversees the design and population of geographic information databases, assigning data compilation tasks and enforcing schema standards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Survey program mentorship — develops and delivers on-the-job training programs for new surveying technicians covering instrument operation, data recording, and map production workflows Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Operational process improvement — identifies inefficiencies in mapping update cycles and leads the implementation of revised workflows that improve team accuracy and turnaround time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Error self-detection — reviews own map layer annotations and rod readings for inconsistencies before submitting to senior review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy awareness — identifies gaps in understanding of coordinate geometry or GIS software functions and seeks targeted instruction or reference materials Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Measurement verification habit — monitors own instrument readings against expected values and recalculates when results fall outside tolerance thresholds Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap mapping — evaluates personal proficiency in theodolite operation, GPS data collection, and CAD drafting against project requirements and plans targeted practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process reflection — evaluates completed traverse surveys and map production cycles to identify recurring calculation errors and adjusts personal workflow to prevent repetition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning transfer — applies mathematical principles learned in traverse closure calculations to new contexts such as coordinate transformations and topographic interpolation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive strategy modeling — articulates to junior technicians the mental frameworks used for checking map accuracy, catching database errors, and verifying staking layouts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive expertise — continuously evaluates own competency against evolving GIS platforms, GPS receiver technologies, and geospatial data standards and self-directs upskilling accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Data plausibility check — flags rod readings or calculated distances that appear inconsistent with expected field conditions before entering values into field notes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Map error identification — detects mislabeled boundaries or misplaced topographic features during initial layer review using reference source materials O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Traverse closure analysis — evaluates angular and linear error of closure in survey traverses, determines whether results meet allowable precision standards, and identifies probable error sources Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Scale and symbology reasoning — analyzes project requirements to determine appropriate map scales, line weights, and color schemes for hard-copy plotted outputs O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-source data reconciliation — cross-references aerial imagery, field measurements, deed records, and prior survey data to resolve geographic boundary discrepancies in database compilation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Construction plan interpretation — critically reads engineering plans to identify staking requirements, evaluates site conditions against plan assumptions, and adjusts staking layout accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Compliance gap assessment — evaluates mapping update submissions against regulatory standards, identifies non-conforming elements, and determines corrective actions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic accuracy evaluation — designs map quality control protocols that test assumptions embedded in coordinate systems, projection choices, and datum transformations across large-scale projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex problem diagnosis — investigates persistent closure failures or GPS positional outliers by systematically eliminating instrument error, atmospheric conditions, and computational mistakes as causes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Two-person survey teamwork — coordinates with instrument operator to achieve consistent rod positioning and clear line-of-sight during angle and elevation measurements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Office-field information sharing — transfers field notes and raw data to office technicians accurately and on schedule to support map production timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdisciplinary data exchange — collaborates with engineers and planners to understand staking requirements and confirm that compiled survey data aligns with design intent Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer map review participation — contributes to group map accuracy reviews by checking assigned layers, documenting findings, and sharing corrections with the team O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-functional GIS project contribution — works alongside GIS analysts, engineers, and land surveyors to populate geographic databases, ensuring technician-compiled data meets project schema and accuracy requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-crew field coordination — coordinates data collection schedules, instrument stations, and communication protocols across multiple survey field crews working on large project areas Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Agency collaboration leadership — serves as primary technical liaison between the survey team and external agencies during regulatory mapping submissions, facilitating data exchange and resolving compliance questions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative workflow design — co-develops integrated field-to-office data pipelines with GIS technicians, surveyors, and IT staff that reduce data transfer errors and accelerate map production Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Data integrity commitment — records field measurements as observed without rounding, estimating, or altering values to match expected outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Punctuality and reliability — arrives at field survey sites prepared with correct equipment and documentation, ready to begin at scheduled start times Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accuracy accountability — acknowledges and reports personal measurement or drafting errors to supervisors promptly and participates in corrective action without deflection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct in the field — maintains respectful communication with landowners, construction crews, and agency personnel encountered during survey operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical data handling — refuses to alter geographic boundary data, elevation records, or map features to satisfy client preferences that conflict with actual field measurements or legal descriptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory compliance adherence — follows all applicable surveying standards, licensing requirements, and jurisdictional mapping rules without cutting corners under schedule pressure O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Professional standards advocacy — identifies and escalates instances where project timelines or client demands pressure the team toward inaccurate data representation, and proposes compliant alternatives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Integrity modeling — demonstrates and enforces a culture of uncompromising data accuracy and professional ethics across the technician team through consistent personal example Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Visualization experimentation — tests alternative color schemes and line weights on draft maps to improve feature legibility before final plotter output Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Database structure exploration — proposes initial ideas for organizing geographic or topographic data attributes within a new information database O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Overlay map innovation — designs multi-layer overlay maps that combine boundary, hydrological, and topographic data in novel arrangements to meet specific user analysis needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem-specific staking solution — devises non-standard staking approaches when site obstructions or terrain prevent direct application of engineering plan instructions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Custom cartographic product development — creates specialized map products at non-standard scales or with custom symbology systems tailored to unique project or regulatory requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Geospatial database architecture — designs original database schemas that integrate multiple geographic data types and support efficient query, update, and map generation workflows O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Workflow innovation — invents new field-to-database data collection methodologies that integrate GPS, total station, and remote sensing inputs to improve project efficiency and spatial accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Novel visualization solutions — develops original cartographic and GIS visualization approaches that communicate complex spatial relationships to non-technical decision-makers more effectively than standard map formats Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Technology adoption openness — engages with unfamiliar surveying instruments or GIS software platforms with curiosity rather than avoidance when introduced to new tools Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — incorporates supervisor corrections to field note recording, rod positioning, or map drafting techniques without resistance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill expansion through challenge — volunteers for survey assignments involving unfamiliar terrain, instrument types, or database structures to accelerate technical development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error-driven learning — analyzes traverse closure failures or map rejection feedback to extract specific lessons that improve future data collection and drafting quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Technology upskilling — independently learns updated GIS software releases, GPS receiver firmware capabilities, and new geospatial data formats as they become relevant to project work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional development persistence — pursues surveying technician certification, continuing education, or professional organization participation to deepen occupational competency over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — creates an environment within the technician team where questioning methods, experimenting with new tools, and learning from mistakes are normalized and rewarded Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mastery pursuit modeling — publicly shares lessons from complex project challenges, instrument failures, and data anomalies with colleagues to accelerate collective team learning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Instrument focus — maintains sustained attention during theodolite sighting and rod reading sequences to prevent transcription and measurement errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Situational awareness in the field — monitors surrounding terrain, traffic, and weather conditions while performing survey tasks to maintain personal and crew safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Deliberate data verification — pauses systematically after completing each map layer check to confirm all error marks are recorded before moving to the next layer Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive load management — organizes complex staking or database compilation tasks into sequential steps to maintain accuracy when managing multiple simultaneous project demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Precision measurement intentionality — applies a consistent pre-measurement routine for instrument leveling, target alignment, and reading confirmation that minimizes random observational error Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress regulation during deadline pressure — maintains methodical data checking and documentation standards during high-volume map production cycles without sacrificing accuracy for speed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team attention management — identifies signs of fatigue or distraction in field crew members during extended survey sessions and intervenes with task rotation or rest breaks to preserve data quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional process design — architects survey and mapping workflows with deliberate checkpoints and verification steps that build mindful data review into standard operating procedure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance in the field — maintains effective rod positioning and data recording performance across full survey field days in varied weather and terrain conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback recovery — resumes accurate data collection after equipment malfunction or measurement invalidation without loss of motivation or attention to detail Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Project persistence — sustains focused effort through lengthy database compilation tasks or multi-day staking projects that require sustained precision without immediate visible results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adverse condition performance — continues productive survey field operations during challenging environmental conditions including heat, cold, or difficult terrain while maintaining measurement accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Iterative correction resilience — reworks rejected map submissions or failed traverse closures systematically and without discouragement, applying diagnostic reasoning to resolve underlying errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Schedule pressure management — maintains data accuracy and professional standards when project timelines compress or client demands escalate, resisting shortcuts that compromise survey integrity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis response leadership — guides the field or office team through major project disruptions such as instrument loss, data corruption, or sudden scope changes with calm, decisive problem-solving Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term project commitment — sustains personal and team performance standards across multi-year mapping or infrastructure survey projects characterized by complexity, regulatory uncertainty, and repeated revision cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors51 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Aerial Photograph Interpreter · Aerotriangulation Specialist · Assessment Technician · Ax Survey Worker · CAD Technician (Computer Aided Design Technician) · Cartographic Aide · Cartographic Drafter · Cartographic Technician · Cartography Technician · Chain Carrier · Chainman · Compass Operator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Reading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingWritingMathematicsActive ListeningSpeakingMonitoringComplex Problem SolvingActive LearningCoordination
Knowledge domains
Computers and ElectronicsGeographyMathematicsEnglish LanguageEngineering and TechnologyDesignCustomer and Personal Service
Abilities
Written ComprehensionNear VisionOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionInductive ReasoningProblem SensitivityDeductive ReasoningInformation OrderingWritten ExpressionSpeech Recognition
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessIntegrityAchievement OrientationIntellectual Curiosity
Technology
Computer aided design CAD softwareWord processing softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareMap creation softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareData base user interface and query softwareElectronic mail softwareGeographic information systemMobile location based services softwareWeb platform development software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Position and hold the vertical rods, or targets, that theodolite operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations.
  2. Check all layers of maps to ensure accuracy, identifying and marking errors and making corrections.
  3. Design or develop information databases that include geographic or topographic data.
  4. Monitor mapping work or the updating of maps to ensure accuracy, inclusion of new or changed information, or compliance with rules and regulations.
  5. Produce or update overlay maps to show information boundaries, water locations, or topographic features on various base maps or at different scales.
  6. Determine scales, line sizes, or colors to be used for hard copies of computerized maps, using plotters.
  7. Compile information necessary to stake projects for construction, using engineering plans.
  8. Identify and compile database information to create requested maps.
CIP education codes
15.110245.070145.0702

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.