81A Career Guide
81A: Topographic Operations Sergeant
Career transition guide for Army Topographic Operations Sergeant (81A)
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Top civilian roles for 81A veterans, with average salary and market demand data.
Drafter
Skills to develop:
Surveying and Mapping Technician
Skills to develop:
Geospatial Analyst
Skills to develop:
Civil Engineering Technician
Skills to develop:
Technical Writer
Skills to develop:
Salary estimates from VWC career data
Hidden Strengths
Cognitive skills your 81A training built — and where they transfer.
Procedural Compliance
The role requires strict adherence to drafting standards, military regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure accuracy and uniformity in map production and documentation.
This translates to a meticulous approach to following established protocols and guidelines, crucial in regulated industries or roles requiring precision and consistency.
Situational Awareness
Understanding the operational environment and how maps and visual aids support mission objectives is critical. This includes anticipating needs, understanding the impact of terrain, and integrating information from various sources to create relevant products.
This demonstrates the ability to perceive and understand your environment, predict potential challenges, and proactively respond to changing conditions, which is valuable in project management, logistics, and risk assessment roles.
Resource Optimization
Managing drafting supplies, equipment, and personnel efficiently to meet deadlines and project requirements. This includes prioritizing tasks, allocating resources, and troubleshooting technical issues to maintain productivity.
This shows proficiency in maximizing resources, streamlining workflows, and solving problems creatively to achieve optimal outcomes, essential for operations management, procurement, and process improvement.
Team Synchronization
Coordinating with map compilers, model makers, and other specialists to integrate different elements into a cohesive final product. The role requires communicating effectively, sharing information, and collaborating to achieve shared goals.
The ability to work effectively within a team, contribute to shared objectives, and coordinate with others to reach goals. This is applicable in any role that requires close collaboration, like product development or marketing teams.
Non-Obvious Career Matches
Technical Writer
SOC 27-3042.00You've been meticulously creating maps and visual aids, demanding precision and attention to detail. Technical writing requires these same skills to translate complex information into clear, concise documentation for technical audiences.
Geospatial Data Analyst
SOC 15-1131.00Your expertise in cartographic drafting and map interpretation gives you a solid foundation for geospatial analysis. You can leverage your knowledge of spatial data, mapping software, and analytical techniques to extract insights and solve problems for various industries.
Urban and Regional Planner
SOC 19-3051.00Your background in topographic operations, combined with your drafting skills, provides a unique perspective for urban and regional planning. You understand how to analyze spatial data, visualize concepts, and communicate planning ideas effectively to stakeholders.
Museum Exhibit Designer
SOC 27-1027.00Your drafting and visual communication skills, combined with your understanding of spatial concepts, make you well-suited for museum exhibit design. You can create engaging and informative exhibits that tell compelling stories using maps, diagrams, and other visual elements.
Training & Education Equivalencies
Geospatial Engineer Basic Course, Fort Leonard Wood, MO
Topics Covered
- •Map Reading and Interpretation
- •Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Fundamentals
- •Cartographic Principles and Techniques
- •Terrain Analysis
- •Supervisory Leadership and Management
- •Military Map Production
- •Drafting and Scribing Techniques
Certification Pathways
Partial Coverage
Requires study of SolidWorks software, CAD principles, and engineering drawing standards not explicitly covered in the military description.
Requires specific training and experience using AutoCAD software. The military role covers drafting principles but not necessarily this specific software.
Requires broader GIS knowledge, including spatial analysis, database management, and GIS software proficiency beyond basic map drafting.
Recommended Next Certifications
Technical Systems Translation
Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.
| Military System | Civilian Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) | Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software like ArcGIS or QGIS |
| Digital Topographic Support System (DTSS) | Digital mapping and cartography software such as AutoCAD Map 3D or Global Mapper |
| Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver (PLGR) | Handheld GPS devices like Garmin or surveying-grade GPS equipment |
| AN/USQ-90(V) Topographic Support System | High-end commercial plotting and large format printing solutions |
| Tactical Communication Systems (SINCGARS) | Two-way radio communication systems or satellite communication devices |
| Joint Automated Deep Operations System (JADOCS) | Command and control software with mapping and visualization capabilities |
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