Measurement techniques

What does a surveying technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A surveying technician works with collecting, analyzing, and processing geographic and technical data used in construction and civil engineering projects. Tasks often include measurement and staking out of construction sites, quality control measurements, and data processing using advanced software. The work takes place both outdoors in the field and at a computer, resulting in a varied work environment where precision and technical understanding are crucial. Surveying technicians often collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other technical specialists to ensure projects are executed according to plan and with high accuracy.

Salary development over time

Surveying technicians have experienced a stable salary development over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month, increasing to 49 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 50 200 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.4% over three years. The largest salary increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, likely due to increased demand for technical expertise in construction and ongoing technological advancements in the industry. Salary growth has since plateaued somewhat, but the trend remains upward, especially for those with specialist skills and experience.

Surveying technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school diploma with up to 2 years of education)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, doctoral education)
• Hourly wage (average): 302 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 51 200 SEK, women 47 300 SEK (women earn 92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations are not available in current statistics

Education and qualifications

To work as a surveying technician, a high school diploma with a technical focus is usually required, but many employers prefer post-secondary education in surveying and mapping technology or equivalent. Practical experience is valuable and often a requirement, especially for more advanced or specialized roles. Further training and certifications in modern surveying techniques and software can enhance competitiveness in the job market.

• Vocational college education: 2–3 years, surveying and mapping technology or similar
• High school education: Technical program, construction and civil engineering program
• Certifications: Courses in GNSS, total station, and CAD/GIS software
• Internship: Work-based internships are common and advantageous
• Prerequisites: Mathematics and technical subjects from high school are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Surveying technicians are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and paid training. Flexible hours or remote work options are common for administrative tasks. Equipment and work clothing are provided by the employer, and some workplaces also offer extra vacation days or bonuses upon project completion.

Competition and challenges

The job market for surveying technicians is characterized by balance, meaning supply and demand are relatively evenly distributed. At the same time, technological development and increased digitalization requirements mean that the role is changing rapidly. Challenges may arise during economic downturns in the construction and civil engineering sectors, but the need for technical skills is expected to grow in the future. Staying updated with new measurement methods and software is crucial to remain competitive.

Tips for those who want to become surveying technicians

To succeed as a surveying technician, it is good to combine technical interest with precision and problem-solving skills. Being analytical and detail-oriented makes it easier to detect deviations in measurement data, while good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and clients. Practical experience from construction environments provides a strong foundation, and the willingness to continuously develop skills in new technologies and digital tools is a great advantage. Flexibility and the ability to work independently and in teams are appreciated by employers. A tip is to pursue internships during education to build networks and gain insight into the industry. Lastly, an interest in geography and technology is a motivating factor that helps in thriving and developing in the profession.

Key facts about surveying technicians

• Education level: Vocational college or high school with a technical focus
• Work environment: Combined field and office environment
• Demand: Moderate, increasing over five years
• Job openings: 379 within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: GNSS, laser scanning, CAD/GIS software

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a surveying technician, there are good opportunities to advance to specialist roles such as geodetic surveying, project management, or technical consulting. Some choose to deepen their expertise in digital measurement methods or programming measurement equipment, while others move into managerial or training roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering, job opportunities are moderate nationally, but demand is expected to grow over the next five years. This development is driven by increasing needs for technical competence and digitalization in the industry, offering good future prospects for the profession.

Common questions about surveying technicians

• What is the average salary of a surveying technician?
  - A surveying technician has an average salary of 50 200 SEK per month.
• What is required to become a surveying technician?
  - Typically, a vocational college education in surveying and mapping technology or a high school diploma with a technical focus and practical experience is required.
• Is there a difference between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn 47 300 SEK on average, which is 92% of men's average salary of 51 200 SEK.
• What are the future prospects for surveying technicians?
  - Job opportunities are moderate today and are expected to increase over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What tasks does a surveying technician perform?
  - Tasks include measurement, staking out, quality control, and data analysis in construction and civil engineering projects.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, paid training, and flexible hours.
• How high can the salary become for a surveying technician?
  - The highest reported salary is 57,900 SEK per month, for a woman with doctoral education in the public sector.