The hands-on side of engineering: drafters, surveyors, mapmakers, inspectors and testers who often start with a two-year degree or certificate.
Top pay: highest pay, longest training
NDT Level III Specialist: Top-level expert in finding hidden cracks in metal without cutting it open, who writes the inspection methods and certifies other inspectors. Typical pay $110k.
Mid pay: solid pay, degree or apprenticeship
BIM Manager: Runs the giant 3D digital models that architects, engineers and builders share for a whole building project. Typical pay $105k.
Professional Land Surveyor: Licensed expert who measures land and legally decides where property lines are. Typical pay $71k.
Geodesist: Measures the exact shape, size and gravity of the Earth so GPS, maps and satellites stay accurate. Typical pay $100k.
Mechanical Drafter: Makes the detailed drawings and 3D models that show exactly how to build machine parts. Typical pay $69k.
Electrical & Electronics Drafter: Draws the wiring diagrams and layouts that show electricians and factories how to build electrical systems. Typical pay $72k.
Piping Designer: Designs the routes of pipes through refineries, power plants and factories in 3D. Typical pay $82k.
Cartographer & Photogrammetrist: Makes maps and 3D models of the land from aerial photos, drones, lidar and satellite data. Typical pay $76k.
Nondestructive Testing Technician: Uses ultrasound, X-rays, magnets and dyes to find hidden cracks in welds, pipelines and airplane parts without damaging them. Typical pay $68k.
Calibration & Metrology Technician: Checks and adjusts measuring tools and instruments so every measurement in a factory or lab is accurate. Typical pay $64k.
Technical Illustrator: Draws the exploded views and diagrams in assembly instructions, repair manuals and patents. Typical pay $62k.
Engineering Model Maker: Builds physical models and prototypes of products, buildings and vehicles by hand and with machines. Typical pay $55k.
Surveying Technician: Works on a survey crew measuring land with GPS, total stations and drones. Typical pay $51k.
CAD Technician: Updates drawings and models in CAD software under the direction of engineers and designers. Typical pay $50k.
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.