Also called: Geodetic Scientist, Geodetic Surveyor
Measures the exact shape, size and gravity of the Earth so GPS, maps and satellites stay accurate.
You analyze GPS data from stations bolted to bedrock across the country and find that one is sinking a few millimeters a year. Your measurements help keep every phone's map and every self-driving car's position correct.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Master's degree, about 6 years after high school. Master's or PhD in geodesy, geomatics or geophysics; many work for NOAA or NGA.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Geomatics, Geophysics, Surveying.
Growing about average. Tiny field, mostly government and research.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI processes satellite and gravity data faster; designing measurements and fixing reference systems stay human.
Classes: AP Physics, AP Calculus, Earth science, Computer science.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-1022.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.