Currently accepting applications for the 2021-2023 class.. Apply Here

First year trainee fall additional learning begins Aug. 23 and ends Nov. 19. 
Labs are scheduled for September 11-12, October 9-10 and November 13-14 in Champaign. 

Do you...?

... want to earn money while you train for a career?

... want to work outside?

... enjoy using the latest technology and math skills?

... want to follow in the footsteps of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Lewis & Clark (all surveyors!)?

The Illinois Professional Land Surveyors Association, in partnership with Parkland College in Champaign, IL, has developed an apprenticeship program to train the next generation of surveyor and mapping technicians.

What's the 411?

  • Two-year program
  • Optional one-week boot camp to kick things off
  • After boot camp, you will begin working full time with your employer

While working, your training will continue with a series of online and in-person labs taught by Parkland College.  This is an “earn and learn” model, meaning you will receive a paycheck from day one, while having educational expenses paid for by your employer.  First year apprentices earn a minimum of $15 per hour; second year apprentices earn a minimum of $16 per hour.  Upon completion of the two-year training, pay increases to a minimum of $17 per hour.  In addition to boot camp, there are 13 weekend training labs.  The remainder of the training will be provided online and on-the-job. 

To successfully complete the program, apprentices will have to pass the Certified Survey Technician Level I or Level II exams.  Apprentices are guaranteed a job with their employer after the program has been successfully completed.


What is Surveying?

Surveying or land surveying is the profession, technique, art, and science of determining terrestrial or three-dimensional position of points and the distances and the angles between them. Surveyors use mathematics, physics, and engineering to determine and establish land boundaries.  Measurements such as dimensions, lengths, and boundary lines are all precisely determined through land surveying.  Surveyors often use technicians to assist in operating instruments, taking measurements, and processing the gathered data into computer-aided design (CAD) drawings either outside or in the office setting.  The benefit of assisting a land surveyor during an apprenticeship would be having additional learning converted into college credit that can be used for a degree in land surveying.
Before applying to the apprenticeship program, all potential apprentices must first secure a position with an employer. 
When uploading a resume, under additional information select "Yes" where it asks "Are you interested in being matched with a company to apply for the Survey Technician Apprenticeship program?"