Surveying, Mapping, and Drafting Technicians (Enlisted)
Opportunities
Surveying, mapping, and drafting technicians help determine, describe, and record geographic areas or features. They conduct land surveys, take measurements, make maps, and prepare detailed plans and drawings for construction projects. They are also sometimes called upon to provide maps and surveys that locate military targets and help plot troop movements. These technicians play key roles in the field of geospatial information.
Training Provided
Surveying, mapping, and drafting technicians in the Military will gain skills through classroom study, simulated combat conditions, and on-the-job experience.
- Surveying and drafting techniques
- Geospatial interpretation
- Architectural and structural drawing
- Methods of computing target locations
- Artillery tactics and field combat strategy
- Ammunition-handling techniques
- Gun, missile and rocket system operations
- Aerial photo interpretation
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
Earnings
Military pay and benefits are set by Congress, which normally grants a cost-of-living pay increase once each year. All members of the military receive "basic pay," which is the largest component of a member's pay. A member's grade (usually the same as rank) and years of service determines the amount of basic pay received. Enlisted members can progress through nine enlisted pay grades during their careers. In 2024, most enlisted personnel started as recruits at Grade E-1 ($2017/month basic pay); however, those with special skills or above average education started as high as Grade E-4 ($2634/month basic pay). In addition to pay, the military provides many of life's necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing, or pays allowances for them. Other benefits include health care, 30 days paid vacation, legal assistance, recreational programs, education assistance, and military store privileges.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy