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Geomatics Technologist

Geomatics technologists carry out or take part in field surveys, office calculations, and planning. They search for the exact locations of natural features and human-made structures on the Earth’s surface, underground, and under water. They define the positions of these features in relation to each other.

Also Known As

Engineering Technologist, GIS Technician / Technologist, Physical Sciences Technician / Technologist, Surveying Technologist

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 2254.1: Survey Technologists

2006 NOC-S

  • C154: Land Survey Technologists and Technicians

2011 NOC

  • 2254: Land survey technologists and technicians

2016 NOC

  • 2254: Land survey technologists and technicians

2021 NOC

  • 22213: Land survey technologists and technicians

2023 OaSIS

  • 22213.01: Land survey technologists
Duties
Updated Apr 11, 2022

In general, geomatics technologists:

  • Stake out buildings and other structures, including bridges, dams, tunnels, refineries, and other engineering works
  • Perform calculations and field layouts of horizontal and vertical curves when conducting detailed surveys, such as for highways, urban streets, and railways
  • Carry out underground, open pit, and tunnel surveys, and produce plans from these surveys
  • Complete hydrographic surveys of shoreline and offshore contours, including subsurface contours
  • Survey subdivisions, roads, rights-of-way, mineral claims, and well sites
  • Carry out field surveys for new townships and sections of land to establish or re-establish legal survey boundaries
  • Research land titles, legal survey plans, aerial photographs, satellite images, geographical databases, and other information relevant to planning surveys
  • Plan and conduct control surveys for mapping purposes
  • Create and process digital databases with the goal of assembling collections of geographic information in numerical and graphical formats
  • Use geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for spatial analysis
  • Prepare proposed and “as built” plans using electronic field data collection and computer graphic methods
  • Extract survey information from images that were obtained using remote sensing equipment
  • Use global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) to determine locations on the surface of the Earth
  • Use GNSS processing software to carry out quality control measures and audits of survey data
  • Plan preparation and quality control of surveys
  • Using third-party plans, interpret and calculate the layouts of buildings, infrastructure, and other construction

Geomatics technologists use various types of surveying equipment. This includes total stations (electronic distance-measuring instruments), global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), or a rod and level. They also use various software applications, such as ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and Google Earth.

Working Conditions
Updated Apr 11, 2022
  • Strength Required Lift up to 20 kg

Geomatics technologists work alone and in teams. They may work with:

  • Land surveyors
  • Engineers
  • Other technologists
  • Many other types of tradespeople on construction projects

They work indoors creating and studying data. They work outdoors conducting surveys in all weather conditions. They may need to travel extensively, sometimes to remote areas.

Work Personalities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2023 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit
Fit Guide
An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.
R
Realistic
This occupation
You
C
Conventional
I
Investigative
This occupation
You

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2023 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Land survey technologists
2023 OaSIS: 22213.01

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower
a match
higher
Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower
a match
higher
Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower
a match
higher
Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance. 

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower
a match
higher
Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower
a match
higher
Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking. 

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower
a match
higher
Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Traits & Skills
Updated Apr 11, 2022

Geomatics technologists need:

  • Math skills
  • The ability to think about geometric forms in a visual way
  • The ability to pick up important details in objects and drawings
  • Communication and observation skills
  • Physical fitness and endurance for field work
  • A willingness to work in remote, isolated areas

They should enjoy:

  • Working outdoors with equipment and instruments at precision tasks
  • Analyzing information and finding innovative solutions to problems
  • Taking a step-by-step approach to their work
  • Supervising and coordinating the work of others

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Land survey technologists and technicians

2016 NOC: 2254

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 35 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Mar 03, 2022 and Oct 03, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Work Setting: Various locations
Computer Systems: Valid driver's licence
Work Site Environment: Outdoors
Walking
Survey Specialization: Land survey
Attention to detail
Team player
Overtime required
Reliability
Computer Systems: Willing to travel
Educational Requirements
Updated Apr 11, 2022
  • Minimum Education 2 years post-secondary

The recommended background for geomatics technologists is a 2-year diploma in geomatics engineering technology. It is possible but not common to learn on the job and take related courses part time.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Mount Royal University
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Apr 11, 2022
  • Certification Provincially regulated

The Alberta Society of Surveying and Mapping Technologies (ASSMT) offers 4 levels of certified survey technician and technologist (CST) certification:

  1. Technician
  2. Senior technician
  3. Technologist
  4. Senior technologist

A fifth level of certification, registered survey technologist, is under development.

Applicants are certified based on a combination of education and experience gained in the surveying and mapping industry. In general, the more related education an applicant has, the fewer the years of experience required for certification.

All certified member applications are reviewed by:

  1. The panel of examiners
  2. The certification board
  3. The ASSMT council for membership (final approval).

Additional certification options are available from other organizations.

Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.

The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.

Certified Engineering Technologist

Certified engineering technologists (CET) use industry-recognized codes, standards, procedures, and practices to solve problems within their technological areas of expertise. Depending on their duties, they may need supervision by a Professional Engineer, Professional Geoscientist, or Professional Technologist (Engineering / Geoscience).

Legislation

Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and ASET Regulation [pdf], you must register with the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) to use the protected title Certified Engineering Technologist (CET).

You do not have to register if you do not call yourself a Certified Engineering Technologist.

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Certified Engineering Technologist.

Professional Technologist (Engineering or Geoscience)

Professional Technologists (Engineering) and Professional Technologists (Geoscience) are currently unique to Alberta. They practice independently according to established methodologies and specifications in the fields of engineering and geoscience. They have the authority to sign off and stamp work within a prescribed scope of practice.

Legislation

Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and Professional Technologists Regulation [pdf], you must register with the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) as a Professional Technologist (Engineering or Geoscience) to:

  • Practise engineering or geoscience within a prescribed scope of practice
  • Use the titles Professional Technologist (Engineering) or Professional Technologist (Geoscience)
  • Use the abbreviations P.Tech. (Eng.) or P.Tech. (Geo.)

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Professional Technologist (Engineering or Geoscience).

Employment & Advancement
Updated Apr 11, 2022

Geomatics technologists work for:

  • Engineering and legal survey firms
  • Aerial photographers
  • Mapping companies
  • Seismic services companies
  • Natural resource companies
  • Governments
  • Utility companies
  • Construction companies
  • Survey instrument suppliers

Geomatics technologists may be promoted to supervisor and be responsible for other technologists. They may also move into data processing, drafting, or project management. Technologists can become land surveyors if they pursue further education and training. Tto learn more, see the Land Surveyor occupational profile.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Land survey technologists and technicians
2016 NOC: 2254

75.7% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the Alberta job market condition, or short-term demand forecast, for this occupation over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Land survey technologists and technicians
2021 NOC: 22213
Warm
Job Market
< 1500
Employed in AB

Source: 2024-2026 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Land survey technologists and technicians
2016 NOC: 2254
2.6%
Annual Growth
(Above average)
45
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Apr 11, 2022

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Land survey technologists and technicians

2021 NOC: 22213
Average Wage
$31.30
Per Hour
Average Salary
$62,601.00
Per Year
Average Hours
39.6
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
11.7
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2023 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 22213 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources to supplement this data.

C: Lower Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

Lower Reliability, represents a CV of between 15.01% and 33.00% and/or if fewer than 20 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 33% of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $18.00 $36.81 $25.65 $23.63
Overall $20.00 $45.44 $31.30 $30.00
Top $24.00 $50.96 $35.96 $35.00

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
60%
60%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
23%
23%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
15%
15%
Vacancy Rate
7%
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Engineering and Science Technologies
Other Sources of Information
Updated Apr 11, 2022

Alberta Society of Surveying and Mapping Technologies (ASSMT) website: assmt.ca

Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) website: www.aset.ab.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 31, 2022. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

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