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Lidar Mapping Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Mobile Mapping Technician is responsible for collecting, reviewing, and preparing geospatial ... Operate mobile LiDAR scanning equipment along assigned routes. * Drive data collection vehicle at ...

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Lidar Mapping information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$89.6K

$133.7K

How much do lidar mapping jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for lidar mapping in California is $89,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lidar mapping?

A Lidar Mapping job involves using Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar) technology to create detailed 3D maps of terrain, structures, and objects. Professionals in this field operate Lidar sensors on drones, vehicles, or aircraft to collect spatial data, which is then processed using specialized software. Their work is critical in industries such as surveying, urban planning, forestry, and autonomous vehicle development. They must ensure data accuracy, analyze point cloud data, and sometimes integrate it with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Strong technical skills in remote sensing, data processing, and mapping software are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in lidar mapping?

Professionals in Lidar Mapping often encounter challenges such as working with large and complex datasets, adapting to advances in technology, and ensuring data accuracy in varying field conditions. Fieldwork may require travel and working outdoors in different weather, while office tasks involve processing and analyzing detailed geospatial information. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, such as engineers, surveyors, and project managers, is common and requires clear communication. Successfully navigating these challenges contributes to efficient project delivery and advancement within the geospatial industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in lidar mapping, and why are they important?

To thrive in Lidar Mapping, you need strong geospatial analysis skills, familiarity with remote sensing, and a background in geography, surveying, or a related field. Proficiency with lidar data processing software such as LAStools, ArcGIS, and experience with GPS and GIS systems is typically required, and certifications like ASPRS Certified Mapping Scientist can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with project stakeholders. These abilities are vital for accurate data collection, producing high-quality maps, and ensuring project success in diverse environments.

How to get a job in LiDAR?

To get a job in LiDAR mapping, candidates typically need a background in geospatial sciences, engineering, or related fields, along with skills in GIS, 3D modeling, and data processing software such as LAStools or CloudCompare. Relevant certifications, hands-on experience with LiDAR hardware or software, and knowledge of surveying or remote sensing are also valuable. Entry-level roles may require internships or project experience to demonstrate technical proficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lidar Mapping jobs in California?

The most popular types of Lidar Mapping jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Lidar Mapping jobs in California?

For Lidar Mapping jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lidar Mapping jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lidar Mapping jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lidar Mapping jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lidar Mapping job openings:

Infographic showing various Lidar Mapping job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 8% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,640 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer, Mapping & Localization

Plus

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Software Engineer to join our Mapping & Localization team. In this role, you will be responsible for enhancing both the online and offline components of our mapping infrastructure, including online map interface, map version control, tile-based LiDAR map generation, and large-scale map management. You will play a critical role in supporting runtime map queries for key modules such as perception, localization, prediction, and planning.

Responsibilities
  • Design and optimize scalable interfaces for online lane and map representation.
  • Improve cross-module map interfaces to support perception, prediction, and planning pipelines.
  • Develop and enhance systems for large-scale map deployment, including offline map generation, version control, and online tile-based LiDAR map loading.
  • Maintain and evolve the mapping watchdog and event mining systems to monitor system health and anomalies.
  • Enhance the mapping CI system to support robust development and deployment workflows.
  • Optimize performance of offline 3D reconstruction pipelines.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to understand system-wide dependencies and performance needs across perception, planning, control, simulation, and infrastructure.
  • Work with the operations team to define requirements for data collection, preprocessing, labeling, and validation.
  • Ensure that your work is performed in accordance with the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) requirements and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
  • Ensure team compliance with QMS, monitor quality, and drive process improvements.
Required Skills
  • BS or MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in developing large-scale, real-time C++ systems.
  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ and understanding of multi-threading, multiprocessing, and operating systems, e.g. ROS.
  • Solid foundation in data structures, algorithms, and software design principles.
  • Familiarity with large-scale map data pipelines and distributed systems.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD systems, and maintaining production-grade infrastructure.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated, comfortable operating without direct supervision.
Preferred Skills
  • Hands-on experience with mapping and localization algorithms, such as LiDAR/Visual Odometry, SLAM, or Kalman filtering.
  • Experience working on offline 3D reconstruction systems.

$150,000 - $200,000 a year

Our compensations (cash and equity) are determined based on the position, your location, qualifications, and experience.

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