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Photography Careers and Jobs

Select, Find and Prepare for Photography Careers and Jobs - all on one page

For visually creative people who want to understand the business side of a photography career, not just the craft. Use the tools below to see which photography roles fit your background and goals.

Photography careers split between commercial/technical work (product, event) and fine-art/editorial work, each with different business models. Use the tools below to explore Photography-related job titles sorted by growth rate, salary, or required education. You can start with entry points like Photography Assistant, or look ahead to advanced roles such as Professional Photographer or Studio Owner. Along the way, you will see specific certifications, such as None formally required; portfolio-driven field, that can help you move up the career ladder.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link

This page will take you through 4 steps to (1) Select from Photography careers/jobs, (2) Find Photography job listings, (3) Prepare for Photography careers, and (4) Provide Photography career-specific resources.

Step 1: Select a Career/Job: This page starts with 4 ways for you to identify and select from listings of Photography careers/jobs:
A) Fastest Growing Photography Careers - 2023 to 2033 (est.)
These listings are based on job growth estimates and helps you to identify the fastest growing and evolving Photography careers. Some careers may not initially seem related to Photography, so relevant Photography jobs are listed alongside each listing. This can also help us to identify which careers (bottom of the listing) may have negative growth - perhaps due to automation or planned obsolescence.
B) Median Annual Salary U.S. Photography Careers
These listings are sorted (descending) by median annual salary in the U.S. This may help us to identify our ideal career. We may not qualify at this time for the desired career, but this listing and the results provided can help us to explore job details, as well as learn how to appropriately prepare for the career.
C) Photography Career Ladders (Educational Requirements)
These listings will help us to identify Photography careers sorted by educational requirements (with the most difficult to obtain listed first). This may help us to identify career ladders (as we scroll down the list), and help us to get jobs that we qualify for now.
D) Select From a Listing of 97 Photography Jobs.
The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.
Once you have identified a job title of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the chosen career. Information may include (not every career choice includes all of the elements below - updates occur quarterly):
Core Duties: Lists the primary worker-related tasks performed in this occupation
Supplemental Duties: Lists additional tasks that are performed but are secondary to the core duties
Work Activities: Summarizes the broad types of behaviors and actions related to this career
Specific Work Activities: Provides more granular day-to-day activities tied to the work performed
Essential Skills: Provides foundational skills that are core to performing this specific occupation
Transferable Skills: Provides career-portable skills that can be applied across multiple occupations and industries
Day-in-the-Life Summaries: Provides a snapshot of the key activities performed on a typical workday in this career
Knowledge Required: Provides the requirements regarding the acquisition of facts and principles
Software Skills: Lists software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized by category and priority
Preparation Required: Provides a summary of the required experience and education
Education Required: Detailed breakdown of the education required
Training and Experience Required: Detailed breakdown of the training and Training and Experience Required
Local Salary Information: Provides national and local salary ranges
Certifications: Provides appropriate government and private-sector certifications and/or credentials that may be required
Professional Associations: Provides professional associations that are related to the career selected
Job Listings: Provides links to active current job listings for the selected career, along with multiple similar job titles to explore. All information appears on this page without navigating away.
Related Careers to Consider: Lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to your initial choice - what they do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit.

** If you clicked on a link from section D (as described in Step 1 above), you will see one or more links to an occupation that is usually a bit more general than your initial job selection - the link(s) is directly related to the specific job you identified through your prior selections.
*NOTE: It is possible that there may not be a career path identified for the specific job you selected in Step 1. If this is the case, scroll up the page and click on a different career/job.

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that provide detailed (updated) links specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview. Can also assist with coffee chats.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career/Job

14 Photography careers are listed below (sorted by Percentage Change in Total Job Openings - 2023 to 2033 est.). Photography-related jobs specific to each career are also provided. This shows which careers are emerging and growing the fastest. Please Scroll and Select below:

Occupations U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033 (% change) Photography-Related Jobs

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film 24.1% Motion Picture Photographer; Television News Photographer
Occupation: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 24.1% Photography-Related Jobs: Motion Picture Photographer; Television News Photographer
Curators 21.6% Photography and Prints Curator; Photography Curator
Occupation: Curators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 21.6% Photography-Related Jobs: Photography and Prints Curator; Photography Curator
Photographers 17.1% Advertising Photographer; Aerial Photographer; Automotive Photographer; Biological Photographer; Biomedical Photographer; Commercial Photographer; Crime Scene Photographer; Digital Photographer; Event Photographer; Fashion Photographer; Finish Photographer; Food Photographer; Forensic Photographer; Freelance Photographer; Graduation Photographer; Industrial Photographer; Marine Photographer; Medical Photographer; Nature Photographer; Newborn Photographer; News Photographer; Newspaper Photographer; Ophthalmic Photographer; Photographer; Photographic Specialist; Portrait Photographer; Preschool Photographer; Product Photographer; Real Estate Photographer; Sales Photographer; School Photographer; Scientific Photographer; Sports Photographer; Still Photographer; Street Photographer; Studio Photographer; Underwater Photographer; Vehicle Photographer; Wedding Photographer; Wildlife Photographer
Occupation: Photographers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 17.1% Photography-Related Jobs: Advertising Photographer; Aerial Photographer; Automotive Photographer; Biological Photographer; Biomedical Photographer; Commercial Photographer; Crime Scene Photographer; Digital Photographer; Event Photographer; Fashion Photographer; Finish Photographer; Food Photographer; Forensic Photographer; Freelance Photographer; Graduation Photographer; Industrial Photographer; Marine Photographer; Medical Photographer; Nature Photographer; Newborn Photographer; News Photographer; Newspaper Photographer; Ophthalmic Photographer; Photographer; Photographic Specialist; Portrait Photographer; Preschool Photographer; Product Photographer; Real Estate Photographer; Sales Photographer; School Photographer; Scientific Photographer; Sports Photographer; Still Photographer; Street Photographer; Studio Photographer; Underwater Photographer; Vehicle Photographer; Wedding Photographer; Wildlife Photographer
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary 10.1% Photography Professor; Photography Teacher
Occupation: Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 10.1% Photography-Related Jobs: Photography Professor; Photography Teacher
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers 8% Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer; Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician; Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Photographic Equipment Repair Technician; Photographic Equipment Technician; Photographic Technician (Photo Tech); Photographic Technologist; Photography Equipment Technician
Occupation: Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 8% Photography-Related Jobs: Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer; Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician; Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Photographic Equipment Repair Technician; Photographic Equipment Technician; Photographic Technician (Photo Tech); Photographic Technologist; Photography Equipment Technician
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists 5.4% Orthophotography Technician
Occupation: Cartographers and Photogrammetrists U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 5.4% Photography-Related Jobs: Orthophotography Technician
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers 3.7% Photographic Supervisor; Type Photography Supervisor
Occupation: First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 3.7% Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Supervisor; Type Photography Supervisor
Surveying and Mapping Technicians 3.7% Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Occupation: Surveying and Mapping Technicians U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 3.7% Photography-Related Jobs: Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Retail Salespersons -1% Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson
Occupation: Retail Salespersons U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -1% Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators -8.7% Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator; Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician); Photograph Developer; Photograph Enlarger; Photograph Finisher; Photograph Inspector; Photograph Mounter; Photograph Printer; Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher); Photograph Tinter; Photographic Colorist; Photographic Hand Developer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Press Screwmaker; Photographic Printer; Photographic Process Worker; Photographic Processing Machine Operator; Photographic Reproduction Technician; Photographic Restorer; Photographic Spotter; Photographic Technician; Photography Colorist; Photography Spotter; School Photographs Detailer; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Occupation: Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -8.7% Photography-Related Jobs: Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator; Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician); Photograph Developer; Photograph Enlarger; Photograph Finisher; Photograph Inspector; Photograph Mounter; Photograph Printer; Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher); Photograph Tinter; Photographic Colorist; Photographic Hand Developer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Press Screwmaker; Photographic Printer; Photographic Process Worker; Photographic Processing Machine Operator; Photographic Reproduction Technician; Photographic Restorer; Photographic Spotter; Photographic Technician; Photography Colorist; Photography Spotter; School Photographs Detailer; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Printing Press Operators -9.9% Photographic Process Screen Maker
Occupation: Printing Press Operators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -9.9% Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Process Screen Maker
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers -12.2% Photographic Equipment Inspector
Occupation: Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -12.2% Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Equipment Inspector
Office Machine Operators, Except Computer -13.5% Document Photographer; Micro Photographer; Photographic Machine Operator
Occupation: Office Machine Operators, Except Computer U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -13.5% Photography-Related Jobs: Document Photographer; Micro Photographer; Photographic Machine Operator
Prepress Technicians and Workers -17.1% Color Separation Photographer; Lithographic Photographer; Photoengraving Photographer; Photographic Lithographer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Platemaker
Occupation: Prepress Technicians and Workers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -17.1% Photography-Related Jobs: Color Separation Photographer; Lithographic Photographer; Photoengraving Photographer; Photographic Lithographer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Platemaker

16 Photography careers are listed below (sorted by U.S. National Median Salary). Photography-related jobs specific to each occupation are also provided. Please Scroll and Select below::

Occupations National Median Salary Photography-Related Jobs

Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $ 80,360 Photography Professor; Photography Teacher
Occupation: Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary National Median Salary: $ 80,360 Photography-Related Jobs: Photography Professor; Photography Teacher
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists $ 76,210 Orthophotography Technician
Occupation: Cartographers and Photogrammetrists National Median Salary: $ 76,210 Photography-Related Jobs: Orthophotography Technician
Geodetic Surveyors $ 68,540 Aerial Photograph Interpreter; Orthophotography Technician
Occupation: Geodetic Surveyors National Median Salary: $ 68,540 Photography-Related Jobs: Aerial Photograph Interpreter; Orthophotography Technician
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers $ 65,930 Photographic Supervisor; Type Photography Supervisor
Occupation: First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers National Median Salary: $ 65,930 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Supervisor; Type Photography Supervisor
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film $ 61,800 Motion Picture Photographer; Television News Photographer
Occupation: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film National Median Salary: $ 61,800 Photography-Related Jobs: Motion Picture Photographer; Television News Photographer
Curators $ 61,750 Photography and Prints Curator; Photography Curator
Occupation: Curators National Median Salary: $ 61,750 Photography-Related Jobs: Photography and Prints Curator; Photography Curator
Surveying and Mapping Technicians $ 48,940 Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Occupation: Surveying and Mapping Technicians National Median Salary: $ 48,940 Photography-Related Jobs: Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Ophthalmic Medical Technologists $ 47,470 Ophthalmic Photographer
Occupation: Ophthalmic Medical Technologists National Median Salary: $ 47,470 Photography-Related Jobs: Ophthalmic Photographer
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers $ 46,850 Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer; Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician; Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Photographic Equipment Repair Technician; Photographic Equipment Technician; Photographic Technician (Photo Tech); Photographic Technologist; Photography Equipment Technician
Occupation: Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers National Median Salary: $ 46,850 Photography-Related Jobs: Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer; Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician; Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Photographic Equipment Repair Technician; Photographic Equipment Technician; Photographic Technician (Photo Tech); Photographic Technologist; Photography Equipment Technician
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers $ 45,850 Photographic Equipment Inspector
Occupation: Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers National Median Salary: $ 45,850 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Equipment Inspector
Prepress Technicians and Workers $ 45,070 Color Separation Photographer; Lithographic Photographer; Photoengraving Photographer; Photographic Lithographer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Platemaker
Occupation: Prepress Technicians and Workers National Median Salary: $ 45,070 Photography-Related Jobs: Color Separation Photographer; Lithographic Photographer; Photoengraving Photographer; Photographic Lithographer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Platemaker
Printing Press Operators $ 41,860 Photographic Process Screen Maker
Occupation: Printing Press Operators National Median Salary: $ 41,860 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Process Screen Maker
Photographers $ 40,760 Advertising Photographer; Aerial Photographer; Automotive Photographer; Biological Photographer; Biomedical Photographer; Commercial Photographer; Crime Scene Photographer; Digital Photographer; Event Photographer; Fashion Photographer; Finish Photographer; Food Photographer; Forensic Photographer; Freelance Photographer; Graduation Photographer; Industrial Photographer; Marine Photographer; Medical Photographer; Nature Photographer; Newborn Photographer; News Photographer; Newspaper Photographer; Ophthalmic Photographer; Photographer; Photographic Specialist; Portrait Photographer; Preschool Photographer; Product Photographer; Real Estate Photographer; Sales Photographer; School Photographer; Scientific Photographer; Sports Photographer; Still Photographer; Street Photographer; Studio Photographer; Underwater Photographer; Vehicle Photographer; Wedding Photographer; Wildlife Photographer
Occupation: Photographers National Median Salary: $ 40,760 Photography-Related Jobs: Advertising Photographer; Aerial Photographer; Automotive Photographer; Biological Photographer; Biomedical Photographer; Commercial Photographer; Crime Scene Photographer; Digital Photographer; Event Photographer; Fashion Photographer; Finish Photographer; Food Photographer; Forensic Photographer; Freelance Photographer; Graduation Photographer; Industrial Photographer; Marine Photographer; Medical Photographer; Nature Photographer; Newborn Photographer; News Photographer; Newspaper Photographer; Ophthalmic Photographer; Photographer; Photographic Specialist; Portrait Photographer; Preschool Photographer; Product Photographer; Real Estate Photographer; Sales Photographer; School Photographer; Scientific Photographer; Sports Photographer; Still Photographer; Street Photographer; Studio Photographer; Underwater Photographer; Vehicle Photographer; Wedding Photographer; Wildlife Photographer
Office Machine Operators, Except Computer $ 37,450 Document Photographer; Micro Photographer; Photographic Machine Operator
Occupation: Office Machine Operators, Except Computer National Median Salary: $ 37,450 Photography-Related Jobs: Document Photographer; Micro Photographer; Photographic Machine Operator
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators $ 35,620 Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator; Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician); Photograph Developer; Photograph Enlarger; Photograph Finisher; Photograph Inspector; Photograph Mounter; Photograph Printer; Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher); Photograph Tinter; Photographic Colorist; Photographic Hand Developer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Press Screwmaker; Photographic Printer; Photographic Process Worker; Photographic Processing Machine Operator; Photographic Reproduction Technician; Photographic Restorer; Photographic Spotter; Photographic Technician; Photography Colorist; Photography Spotter; School Photographs Detailer; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Occupation: Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators National Median Salary: $ 35,620 Photography-Related Jobs: Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator; Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician); Photograph Developer; Photograph Enlarger; Photograph Finisher; Photograph Inspector; Photograph Mounter; Photograph Printer; Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher); Photograph Tinter; Photographic Colorist; Photographic Hand Developer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Press Screwmaker; Photographic Printer; Photographic Process Worker; Photographic Processing Machine Operator; Photographic Reproduction Technician; Photographic Restorer; Photographic Spotter; Photographic Technician; Photography Colorist; Photography Spotter; School Photographs Detailer; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Retail Salespersons $ 33,680 Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson
Occupation: Retail Salespersons National Median Salary: $ 33,680 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson

17 Photography careers are listed (sorted by Education/Preparation Requirements - descending) to provide career ladders. Photography-related jobs specific to each career are also provided.

Education/Preparation Categories:
5 = Usually requires graduate school (e.g., Master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.)
4 = Usually requires a four-year Bachelor's degree
3 = Usually requires vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or Associate's degree
2 = Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, but not always
Please Scroll and Select below:
Occupations Education/Preparation Photography-Related Jobs

Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary 5 Photography Professor; Photography Teacher
Occupation: Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary Education/Preparation: 5 Photography-Related Jobs: Photography Professor; Photography Teacher
Curators 5 Photography and Prints Curator; Photography Curator
Occupation: Curators Education/Preparation: 5 Photography-Related Jobs: Photography and Prints Curator; Photography Curator
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists 4 Orthophotography Technician
Occupation: Cartographers and Photogrammetrists Education/Preparation: 4 Photography-Related Jobs: Orthophotography Technician
Geodetic Surveyors 4 Aerial Photograph Interpreter; Orthophotography Technician
Occupation: Geodetic Surveyors Education/Preparation: 4 Photography-Related Jobs: Aerial Photograph Interpreter; Orthophotography Technician
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers 3 Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer; Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician; Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Photographic Equipment Repair Technician; Photographic Equipment Technician; Photographic Technician (Photo Tech); Photographic Technologist; Photography Equipment Technician
Occupation: Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer; Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician; Photographic Equipment Mechanic; Photographic Equipment Repair Technician; Photographic Equipment Technician; Photographic Technician (Photo Tech); Photographic Technologist; Photography Equipment Technician
Surveying and Mapping Technicians 3 Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Occupation: Surveying and Mapping Technicians Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Prepress Technicians and Workers 3 Color Separation Photographer; Lithographic Photographer; Photoengraving Photographer; Photographic Lithographer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Platemaker
Occupation: Prepress Technicians and Workers Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Color Separation Photographer; Lithographic Photographer; Photoengraving Photographer; Photographic Lithographer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Platemaker
Photographers 3 Advertising Photographer; Aerial Photographer; Automotive Photographer; Biological Photographer; Biomedical Photographer; Commercial Photographer; Crime Scene Photographer; Digital Photographer; Event Photographer; Fashion Photographer; Finish Photographer; Food Photographer; Forensic Photographer; Freelance Photographer; Graduation Photographer; Industrial Photographer; Marine Photographer; Medical Photographer; Nature Photographer; Newborn Photographer; News Photographer; Newspaper Photographer; Ophthalmic Photographer; Photographer; Photographic Specialist; Portrait Photographer; Preschool Photographer; Product Photographer; Real Estate Photographer; Sales Photographer; School Photographer; Scientific Photographer; Sports Photographer; Still Photographer; Street Photographer; Studio Photographer; Underwater Photographer; Vehicle Photographer; Wedding Photographer; Wildlife Photographer
Occupation: Photographers Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Advertising Photographer; Aerial Photographer; Automotive Photographer; Biological Photographer; Biomedical Photographer; Commercial Photographer; Crime Scene Photographer; Digital Photographer; Event Photographer; Fashion Photographer; Finish Photographer; Food Photographer; Forensic Photographer; Freelance Photographer; Graduation Photographer; Industrial Photographer; Marine Photographer; Medical Photographer; Nature Photographer; Newborn Photographer; News Photographer; Newspaper Photographer; Ophthalmic Photographer; Photographer; Photographic Specialist; Portrait Photographer; Preschool Photographer; Product Photographer; Real Estate Photographer; Sales Photographer; School Photographer; Scientific Photographer; Sports Photographer; Still Photographer; Street Photographer; Studio Photographer; Underwater Photographer; Vehicle Photographer; Wedding Photographer; Wildlife Photographer
Ophthalmic Medical Technologists 3 Ophthalmic Photographer
Occupation: Ophthalmic Medical Technologists Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Ophthalmic Photographer
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers 3 Photographic Supervisor; Type Photography Supervisor
Occupation: First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Supervisor; Type Photography Supervisor
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film 3 Motion Picture Photographer; Television News Photographer
Occupation: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film Education/Preparation: 3 Photography-Related Jobs: Motion Picture Photographer; Television News Photographer
Office Machine Operators, Except Computer 2 Document Photographer; Micro Photographer; Photographic Machine Operator
Occupation: Office Machine Operators, Except Computer Education/Preparation: 2 Photography-Related Jobs: Document Photographer; Micro Photographer; Photographic Machine Operator
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers 2 Photographic Equipment Inspector
Occupation: Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers Education/Preparation: 2 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Equipment Inspector
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators 2 Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator; Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician); Photograph Developer; Photograph Enlarger; Photograph Finisher; Photograph Inspector; Photograph Mounter; Photograph Printer; Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher); Photograph Tinter; Photographic Colorist; Photographic Hand Developer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Press Screwmaker; Photographic Printer; Photographic Process Worker; Photographic Processing Machine Operator; Photographic Reproduction Technician; Photographic Restorer; Photographic Spotter; Photographic Technician; Photography Colorist; Photography Spotter; School Photographs Detailer; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Occupation: Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators Education/Preparation: 2 Photography-Related Jobs: Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator; Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician); Photograph Developer; Photograph Enlarger; Photograph Finisher; Photograph Inspector; Photograph Mounter; Photograph Printer; Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher); Photograph Tinter; Photographic Colorist; Photographic Hand Developer; Photographic Plate Maker; Photographic Press Screwmaker; Photographic Printer; Photographic Process Worker; Photographic Processing Machine Operator; Photographic Reproduction Technician; Photographic Restorer; Photographic Spotter; Photographic Technician; Photography Colorist; Photography Spotter; School Photographs Detailer; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner; Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers 2 Photographic Equipment Assembler
Occupation: Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers Education/Preparation: 2 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Equipment Assembler
Printing Press Operators 2 Photographic Process Screen Maker
Occupation: Printing Press Operators Education/Preparation: 2 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Process Screen Maker
Retail Salespersons 2 Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson
Occupation: Retail Salespersons Education/Preparation: 2 Photography-Related Jobs: Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson

Scroll through the picklist (below). There are 97 specific Photography job titles listed. Select those that may be of interest - you will get active job listing links, along with detailed resources to help you prepare for a career related to that job.
You can use this form two ways:

hidden filler

Filter - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles below

Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title (Scroll and Select) :

Advertising Photographer
Aerial Photograph Interpreter
Aerial Photographer
Aircraft Photographic Equipment Mechanic
Aircraft Photographic Equipment Repairer
Automotive Photographer
Biological Photographer
Biomedical Photographer
Color Separation Photographer
Commercial Photographer
Computer-Controlled Color Photograph Printer Operator
Crime Scene Photographer
Digital Photographer
Document Photographer
Event Photographer
Fashion Photographer
Finish Photographer
Food Photographer
Forensic Photographer
Freelance Photographer
Graduation Photographer
Industrial Photographer
Lithographic Photographer
Marine Photographer
Medical Photographer
Micro Photographer
Motion Picture Photographer
Nature Photographer
Newborn Photographer
News Photographer
Newspaper Photographer
Ophthalmic Photographer
Orthophotography Technician
Photo Lab Technician (Photographic Laboratory Technician)
Photoengraving Photographer
Photograph Developer
Photograph Enlarger
Photograph Finisher
Photograph Inspector
Photograph Mounter
Photograph Printer
Photograph Retoucher (Photo Retoucher)
Photograph Tinter
Photographer
Photographic Colorist
Photographic Equipment Assembler
Photographic Equipment Inspector
Photographic Equipment Maintenance Technician
Photographic Equipment Mechanic
Photographic Equipment Repair Technician
Photographic Equipment Technician
Photographic Hand Developer
Photographic Lithographer
Photographic Machine Operator
Photographic Plate Maker
Photographic Platemaker
Photographic Press Screwmaker
Photographic Printer
Photographic Process Screen Maker
Photographic Process Worker
Photographic Processing Machine Operator
Photographic Reproduction Technician
Photographic Restorer
Photographic Specialist
Photographic Spotter
Photographic Supervisor
Photographic Supplies and Equipment Salesperson
Photographic Technician
Photographic Technician (Photo Tech)
Photographic Technologist
Photography and Prints Curator
Photography Colorist
Photography Curator
Photography Equipment Technician
Photography Professor
Photography Spotter
Photography Teacher
Portrait Photographer
Preschool Photographer
Product Photographer
Real Estate Photographer
Sales Photographer
School Photographer
School Photographs Detailer
Scientific Photographer
Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Aligner
Semiconductor Wafers Photographic Processor
Sports Photographer
Still Photographer
Street Photographer
Studio Photographer
Television News Photographer
Type Photography Supervisor
Underwater Photographer
Vehicle Photographer
Wedding Photographer
Wildlife Photographer


Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Find Job Listings: Geodetic Surveyors.


Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career





Geodetic Surveyors

Description: Measure large areas of the Earth's surface using satellite observations, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), light detection and ranging (LIDAR), or related sources.
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Geodetic Surveyors":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Calculate the exact horizontal and vertical position of points on the Earth's surface.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in technology, equipment, or systems.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Review existing standards, controls, or equipment used, recommending changes or upgrades as needed.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Analyze control or survey data to ensure adherence to project specifications or land survey standards.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Conduct surveys to determine exact positions, measurement of points, elevations, lines, areas, volumes, contours, or other features of land surfaces.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Maintain databases of geodetic and related information, including coordinate, descriptive, or quality assurance data.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Compute horizontal and vertical coordinates of control networks, using direct leveling or other geodetic survey techniques, such as triangulation, trilateration, and traversing, to establish features of the Earth's surface.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Plan or direct the work of geodetic surveying staff, providing technical consultation as needed.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Assess the quality of control data to determine the need for additional survey data for engineering, construction, or other projects.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Request additional survey data when field collection errors occur or engineering surveying specifications are not maintained.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Provide training and interpretation in the use of methods or procedures for observing and checking controls for geodetic and plane coordinates.
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Verify the mathematical correctness of newly collected survey data.
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Distribute compiled geodetic data to government agencies or the general public.
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Prepare progress or technical reports.
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Determine orientation of tracts of land, including position, boundaries, size, and shape, using theodolites, electronic distance-measuring equipment, satellite-based positioning equipment, land information systems, or other geodetic survey equipment.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Compute, retrace, or adjust existing surveys of features such as highway alignments, property boundaries, utilities, control and other surveys to match the ground elevation-dependent grids, geodetic grids, or property boundaries and to ensure accuracy and continuity of data used in engineering, surveying, or construction projects.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 92 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 90 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 90 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 73 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others: Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials: Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Training and Teaching Others: Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Performing General Physical Activities: Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People: Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Developing Objectives and Strategies: Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Controlling Machines and Processes: Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment: Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others: Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products.
Analyze physical, survey, or geographic data.
Calculate geographic positions from survey data.
Direct surveying activities.
Evaluate designs or specifications to ensure quality.
Explain project details to the general public.
Gather physical survey data.
Maintain operational records or records systems.
Prepare operational reports.
Survey land or bodies of water to measure or determine features.
Train personnel on proper operational procedures.
Update technical knowledge.
Verify mathematical calculations.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 94 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: Geography: Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 73 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Physics: Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Systems Evaluation: Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Analyze data to improve operations.
Activity: Analyze environmental or geospatial data.
Activity: Assess characteristics of land or property.
Activity: Direct scientific or technical activities.
Activity: Evaluate designs, specifications, or other technical data.
Activity: Evaluate the quality or accuracy of data.
Activity: Gather data about operational or development activities.
Activity: Maintain current knowledge in area of expertise.
Activity: Maintain operational records.
Activity: Prepare reports of operational or procedural activities.
Activity: Provide information or assistance to the public.
Activity: Train others on operational or work procedures.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
Emerging Tech Skills
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Bentley MicroStation
Data base user interface and query software:
Amazon Web Services AWS software
Microsoft Access
Structured query language SQL
Enterprise resource planning ERP software:
SAP software
Geographic information system:
ESRI ArcGIS software
Object or component oriented development software:
C#
C++
Oracle Java
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Operating system software:
Linux
Microsoft Windows
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Web platform development software:
Hypertext markup language HTML
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Analytical or scientific software (scroll table below):
Carlson Simplicity Sight Survey
CMT CogoCAD
Geocomp Systems GeoCalc
National Geodetic Survey NGS Geodetic Toolkit
National Geodetic Survey NGS VERTCON
QuickCogo
Underhill Geomatics Copan
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk CAiCE Visual Transportation
Carlson Civil Suite
MicroSurvey Software MicroSurvey CAD
Virtual reality modeling language VRML software
Electronic mail software:
Email software
Geographic information system:
ESRI ArcView
Geographic information system GIS software
Internet browser software:
Web browser software
Map creation software (scroll table below):
Advanced Graphics Technology ProCogo
Geo-Plus
SiteComp Survey
Traverse PC
Trimble Terramodel
Object oriented data base management software:
Object oriented programming software
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, conservation scientists, art directors, and cost estimators.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 81.5 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Education: Some College Courses
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Education: Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Education: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master.
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Education: Master's Degree
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 29.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 25.9 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 18.5 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 14.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 3.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years
Professional Associations
Professional Associations
These associations connect people who work in this occupation or related fields. How can you start using these associations to learn more, build your network, or find mentoring opportunities?
American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) External Link
Related Careers to Consider


Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources

This section contains detailed external resources appropriate to "Geodetic Surveyors". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Geodetic Surveyors". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Geodetic Surveyors". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Geodetic Surveyors


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Geodetic Surveyors" occupation.






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