Launch Your Career as a Survey Technician with the USACE
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a meaningful public mission? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a motivated Survey Technician to join our team in New Orleans, Louisiana. This position is a gateway to contributing to the nation's premier engineering projects, from water management to essential infrastructure development.
Job Responsibilities
As a Survey Technician, you will be the backbone of our field operations. Key duties include:
- Conducting topographic and hydrographic field surveys.
- Managing complex equipment, including GPS, RTK, and UAS (drones).
- Analyzing and processing survey data for project incorporation.
- Developing government estimates for labor, travel, and logistics.
- Ensuring technical quality control for all survey-related submittals.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a blend of field-hardened experience and technical education. Candidates must be U.S. Citizens and must pass a drug test. Depending on the GS level, you will need to demonstrate:
- Experience working on a survey team.
- Proficiency in specialized systems like LIDAR.
- Ability to troubleshoot survey software and hardware.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Level | Experience/Education Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-5/6 | Foundational survey team experience or undergrad education |
| GS-7/8 | Includes Certified Survey Tech Level 1 requirement |
| GS-9/10 | Requires CST Level 2 and advanced data processing |
| GS-11 | Requires CST Level 3 and significant graduate education |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range from $40,736 to $97,087 annually, reflecting the responsibility and locality adjustments associated with the role in New Orleans.
Benefits
Employees of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers benefit from the extensive federal employee package, which includes robust health insurance, retirement planning, and a culture that supports professional development and work-life balance.
Application Tips
- Mind the Resume Limit: Your resume must be strictly two pages or less.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly list hours worked per week and specific equipment platforms you have used.
- Transcripts are Mandatory: If you are substituting education for experience, ensure your transcripts are uploaded to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Don't Forget the Questionnaire: Complete the online assessment thoroughly to ensure your qualifications are accurately scored.
Serving as a Survey Technician with the USACE in New Orleans is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to help build a stronger nation. If you meet the criteria and are ready to tackle complex engineering challenges, we encourage you to submit your application package before the closing date.
Why This Survey Technician Job Matters
Shape the future of our nation's infrastructure with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Survey Technician in New Orleans.
Survey Technician Job Overview
Join the Engineering Division of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in New Orleans, Louisiana, where engineering excellence meets vital public service. We are seeking a dedicated Survey Technician to join our Design Services Branch. In this role, you will perform critical field survey tasks, manage geospatial data, and support large-scale construction and water resource projects that impact our national security and economic growth.
Requirements for Survey Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must undergo and pass a drug test
- Ability to complete a 1-year probationary period
- Relevant specialized experience or appropriate educational degree in surveying, engineering, construction, or related fields
- Ability to perform field surveys using GPS, RTK, and UAS platforms
- Competence in reviewing survey data for accuracy and compliance
- Submission of transcripts if qualifying based on education
- Submission of relevant certifications or licenses where applicable
Preferred Qualifications for Survey Technician
- Certified Survey Technician (CST) Levels 1, 2, or 3 depending on the grade level
- Advanced technical expertise in Terrestrial LIDAR or other remote sensing platforms
- Experience in government contracting submittals and technical estimate preparation
- Academic background in surveying technology, geography, cartography, or physical sciences
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Public service career growth opportunities
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement programs
- ✓Collaborative and professional engineering work environment
💡 How to Apply Survey Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Survey Technician Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Upload a resume of two pages or less highlighting specialized experience.
- Attach all required supporting documentation, including transcripts and any professional certifications.
- Review your application package for accuracy.
- Submit your application through the portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; it must be two pages or less or it will be excluded.
- Include specific start/end dates (month/year) and hours per week for all previous jobs.
- Use clear, plain language; avoid complex acronyms.
- Ensure all educational transcripts are attached if you are using education to qualify.
- Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range for this position is $40,736 to $97,087 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level.
Is a security clearance required?
No, this is a non-sensitive, low-risk position.
Can I qualify with a mix of education and experience?
Yes, combinations of education and specialized experience are acceptable as long as they meet 100% of the qualifying requirements.
What is the hiring path for this position?
This position is open to the public.
Does this position allow for remote work?
No, this role is not eligible for remote work.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is world-renowned for its engineering excellence. We deliver solutions that strengthen national security, bolster economic growth, and protect communities from disaster. By joining us, you become part of a legacy that values innovation, safety, and collaborative problem-solving.