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Topographic Map Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interpret and apply land surveying principles, including deed research, boundary mapping, and topographic survey information, to produce clear and reliable drawings. * Incorporate data from total ...

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Draft and prepare topographic survey maps, site plans, and base files using AutoCAD/Civil 3D. * Create and update easement documents, legal exhibits, and boundary-related drawings. * Produce clear ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD to produce subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other survey-related exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for rights-of-way, easements, and ...

Surveying CAD Technician

Lafayette, CO ยท On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Check submittals to client for completeness and ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Check submittals to client for completeness and ...

Utilize AutoCAD software to produce detailed subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other various survey related maps or exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for ...

Utilize AutoCAD to produce subdivision maps, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, and other survey-related exhibits. * Prepare legal descriptions and exhibits for rights-of-way, easements, and ...

Prepares finished grade sheets, topographic maps, records of survey, corner records, and other survey reports. * Sets out reference points on mining and construction activities. * Prepares and ...

Survey Draft Technician

Encinitas, CA ยท On-site +1

$38 - $47.50/hr

Topographic maps * ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys * Plats, legal descriptions, and associated documents * Draft and calculate survey data based on field notes, control, and title information

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Topographic Map information

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$11

$25

$48

How much do topographic map jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for topographic map in the United States is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a topographic map?

A topographic map is a detailed, accurate representation of the Earth's surface, showing natural and man-made features. These maps use contour lines to depict elevation changes and the shape of the terrain, making it easy to see hills, valleys, and slopes. Topographic maps also include features such as rivers, forests, roads, and buildings, making them useful for activities like hiking, planning, and engineering. They are essential tools for geographers, surveyors, and outdoor enthusiasts to understand landscape and elevation.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

Land surveyors, including specialized roles like geospatial or photogrammetry surveyors, tend to earn higher salaries due to advanced skills and certifications. Experienced surveyors working in urban or industrial environments, often with GIS or CAD expertise, typically have higher earning potential. Certification and experience significantly impact salary levels in surveying careers.

What is a Topographic Map job?

A Topographic Map job involves creating, analyzing, and interpreting detailed maps that represent the Earth's surface, including elevation, terrain features, and natural or man-made landmarks. Professionals in this field use geographic information systems (GIS) and surveying techniques to collect and process spatial data. These maps are essential for fields like engineering, urban planning, environmental management, and outdoor navigation.

What are some common challenges faced when working as a topographic map technician, and how can they be addressed?

Topographic map technicians often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy in diverse terrains, managing large volumes of geospatial information, and adapting to rapidly changing technology. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with the latest mapping software, maintaining meticulous data validation processes, and collaborating closely with field surveyors and GIS specialists. Effective communication within a multidisciplinary team is crucial for resolving discrepancies and delivering precise, up-to-date topographic maps for clients and stakeholders.

What careers use topographic maps?

Topographic maps are used in careers such as cartographers, geologists, civil engineers, environmental scientists, and outdoor recreation professionals. These roles require skills in map reading, GIS software, and fieldwork to analyze terrain, plan projects, or conduct research. Familiarity with topographic features and map interpretation is essential in these fields.

What is the difference between Topographic Map vs Cartographer?

AspectTopographic MapCartographer
Primary FocusCreating detailed maps showing terrain features, elevations, and landformsDesigning, producing, and updating various types of maps, including topographic maps
Required SkillsGeographic knowledge, map reading, GIS skillsGIS proficiency, cartographic design, spatial analysis
Work EnvironmentField surveys, GIS labs, mapping officesOffice-based, GIS centers, fieldwork for data collection
Industry UsageUsed by surveyors, engineers, environmental agenciesEmployed by mapping companies, government agencies, urban planners

While a topographic map is a detailed representation of terrain features, a cartographer is a professional who creates and updates these maps. Cartographers use skills like GIS and cartographic design to produce accurate maps, including topographic maps, for various industries and purposes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Topographic Mapper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Topographic Mapper, you need expertise in cartography, geospatial analysis, and a background in geography or a related field. Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems), GPS technology, and mapping software like ArcGIS is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure accuracy and quality in map production. These skills are vital for creating precise topographic maps that support land use planning, engineering, and environmental management.

Is cartographer a good career?

A cartographer creates topographic maps and geographic representations, often requiring skills in GIS software, surveying, and spatial analysis. The profession offers opportunities in government, environmental planning, and engineering, with a typical work environment involving fieldwork and computer-based tasks. Job prospects depend on industry demand and geographic location, with a need for relevant education and technical certifications.

What is the highest paying geography job?

Topographic map specialists or geospatial analysts working in roles such as GIS managers or remote sensing directors tend to have the highest salaries in geography-related fields. These positions often require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience, with salaries varying based on industry, location, and level of expertise.
More about Topographic Map jobs
What cities are hiring for Topographic Map jobs? Cities with the most Topographic Map job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Topographic Map jobs? The most popular types of Topographic Map jobs are:
What states have the most Topographic Map jobs? States with the most job openings for Topographic Map jobs include:
Infographic showing various Topographic Map job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,560 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Civil Drafter

Civil Drafter

Actalent

Lexington, KY โ€ข Hybrid

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Job Title: Civil Designer / Survey CAD Technician

Job Description

This position supports the Survey and Engineering teams by transforming field-collected survey data into precise CAD-based drawings and documentation. The Civil Designer / Survey CAD Technician prepares survey deliverables, boundary exhibits, plats, easement documents, and civil design drawings for land development, utility, infrastructure, and right-of-way projects. The role requires close collaboration with Professional Land Surveyors, field crews, and project managers to deliver accurate work in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.

Responsibilities

  • Transform field-collected survey data into accurate CAD-based drawings for land development, utility, infrastructure, and right-of-way projects.
  • Prepare survey deliverables, including boundary exhibits, plats, easement documents, and civil design drawings.
  • Draft and produce civil site and land development drawings using AutoCAD Civil 3D and related survey CAD software.
  • Create and edit plats with a target output of approximately 4โ€“5 plats per day, ensuring accuracy and compliance with project requirements.
  • Plot deeds with a target output of approximately 20 or more deeds per day, maintaining consistency and precision.
  • Assist in setting boundaries with a target of approximately 1โ€“2 boundary settings per day, based on survey data and deed research.
  • Interpret and apply land surveying principles, including deed research, boundary mapping, and topographic survey information, to produce clear and reliable drawings.
  • Incorporate data from total stations, Trimble GPS, and other survey instruments into topographic maps and survey drawings.
  • Support construction stakeout activities by preparing and updating staking plans and related construction documents.
  • Collaborate closely with Professional Land Surveyors, survey crews, and project managers to ensure timely and accurate project deliverables.
  • Follow direction from survey leadership to support the survey group with drafting responsibilities and project priorities.
  • Maintain organized CAD files, survey records, and documentation in accordance with company standards and project requirements.
  • Adapt to a high-volume workload and meet turnaround time expectations while maintaining quality and attention to detail.
  • Participate in project coordination, providing updates on progress, potential issues, and schedule impacts.
  • Support a variety of services including land/right-of-way, mapping/GIS, engineering and design, construction management, inspection, and operations-related projects as needed.

Essential Skills

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in civil survey drafting and design.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Civil 3D for civil site, land development, and survey CAD drafting.
  • Demonstrated experience in drawing plats and plotting deeds in a production-driven environment.
  • Strong understanding of land surveying principles, including deed research, boundary mapping, and plat preparation.
  • Experience working with topographic surveys and developing topographic maps using appropriate software.
  • Ability to interpret and utilize survey data collected from total stations and Trimble GPS equipment.
  • Familiarity with survey software and survey CAD workflows to support survey and engineering projects.
  • Ability to support construction stakeout activities through accurate drafting and updates to construction drawings.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy when producing high volumes of plats, deed plots, and boundary drawings.
  • Ability to work effectively with Professional Land Surveyors, survey crews, and project managers in a collaborative environment.
  • Willingness to work a standard 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule with openness to overtime as needed to meet project deadlines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience supporting land development, utility, pipeline, gas pipeline, and infrastructure projects through survey drafting.
  • Experience in civil site design and land development drafting using Civil 3D.
  • Experience working with Trimble GPS, total station equipment, and related topographic map software.
  • Familiarity with high-volume production environments and strict turnaround time expectations.
  • Ability to adapt to hybrid work arrangements when local to the office, or to work effectively on a remote basis if non-local, as required.
  • Comfort working within a multidisciplinary environment that includes project development consulting, project management, land/right-of-way services, surveys, engineering and design, mapping/GIS, construction management, inspection, and operations and maintenance consulting.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
  • Effective communication skills to coordinate with team members and clarify project requirements.

Work Environment

The role operates in a professional engineering and survey environment that supports a full range of services, including project development consulting, project management, land and right-of-way services, surveys, engineering and design, mapping/GIS, construction management, inspection, and operations and maintenance consulting. The standard work schedule is 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some overtime expected to support project deadlines and high-volume workloads. The position supports a survey group led from a regional office and functions in a high-volume production setting with clear turnaround expectations, such as producing multiple plats and deed plots per day and setting boundaries regularly. The employer provides IT equipment and software licenses, including access to AutoCAD, Civil 3D, survey software, and other necessary tools. Work may be performed remotely for non-local candidates, while local candidates may follow a hybrid schedule, combining office-based and remote work as needed. Dress expectations align with a typical professional office and technical environment, with appropriate attire when working on-site or collaborating with field and survey teams.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lexington, KY.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
โ€ข Medical, dental & vision
โ€ข Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
โ€ข 401(k) Retirement Plan โ€“ Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
โ€ข Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
โ€ข Short and long-term disability
โ€ข Health Spending Account (HSA)
โ€ข Transportation benefits
โ€ข Employee Assistance Program
โ€ข Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Lexington,KY.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 24, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffingยฎ winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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