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Topographic Map Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Walsh Group

Survey Manager

Roanoke, VA · On-site

... topographic maps and other survey report * Assists in construction, design, topographic, and all types of control surveys. * Assumes responsibility for the company survey equipment and oversees ...

U.S. Army

Technical Engineer (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

Draw topographic maps and charts using Computer Aided Drafting systems and software * Attend Paid Basic and advanced training * Complete (ASVAB) Basic Qualifications: (What employee bring to the ...

IMEG

Licensed Maryland Surveyor | Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Principal Responsibilities • Perform complex survey work for construction stakeout and boundary, topographic, and as built surveys • Research historic maps, land records, previous surveys, and ...

IMEG

Licensed Maryland Surveyor | Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Principal Responsibilities Perform complex survey work for construction stakeout and boundary, topographic, and as built surveys Research historic maps, land records, previous surveys, and land title ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Charlottesville, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems, interpreting seismic data, and understanding watershed dynamics. Emphasizes observational skills and ...

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All JobsTopographic Map JobsTopographic Map Jobs in Virginia

Topographic Map information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$25

$47

How much do topographic map jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for topographic map in Virginia is $25.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $29.57 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Topographic Map jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Topographic Map jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Topographic Map jobs in Virginia? For Topographic Map jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Topographic Map jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Topographic Map jobs in Virginia are:
Topographic Map jobs near you
Infographic showing various Topographic Map job openings in Virginia 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 $52,109 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
SUE/Survey CADD Technician

SUE/Survey CADD Technician

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)

Virginia Beach, VA

$25 - $40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

Position Summary:  Responsible for preparing plans from the provided engineering sketches and details for projects.  

Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

Compensation for this position is $25.00 - $40.00/hour, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Performs drafting in MicroStation and/or Autocad
  • Plot utilities and topographic mapping
  • Perform office survey activities in accordance with Minimum Standards of Practice for Surveying
  • Perform utility records research
  • Performs office computations necessary for the completion of task assignments including QA/QC.
  • Prepares finished mapping products including: SUE QL B, C, and D level mapping, topographic mapping, and other survey reports
  • Communicates the daily progress of the crew towards the project goals and/or accomplishments with the office staff

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Perform other related duties as assigned

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