Surveyors
What is a Surveyor?
A surveyor is a professional responsible for measuring and mapping the environment, land, and properties to determine boundaries, dimensions, and contours. They use advanced technology and tools, such as GPS, total stations, and laser scanning, to gather precise data necessary for various projects, including construction, land development, and real estate transactions. Surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring that projects are compliant with local regulations and codes, providing accurate information for legal documentation, and facilitating the planning and execution of infrastructure developments. Their work involves both fieldwork, where they collect data on-site, and office work, where they analyze and interpret the data, preparing reports and plans that are essential for engineers, architects, and land developers. Surveyors often specialize in different areas, including land surveying, marine surveying, and construction surveying, each requiring specific expertise and knowledge of relevant laws and regulations. Their expertise not only helps define property boundaries but also contributes to the sustainable development of land and resources, making them vital contributors to urban planning and environmental stewardship.
Tasks
- Direct or conduct surveys to establish legal boundaries for properties, based on legal deeds and titles.
- Prepare and maintain sketches, maps, reports, and legal descriptions of surveys to describe, certify, and assume liability for work performed.
- Write descriptions of property boundary surveys for use in deeds, leases, or other legal documents.
- Verify the accuracy of survey data, including measurements and calculations conducted at survey sites.
- Search legal records, survey records, and land titles to obtain information about property boundaries in areas to be surveyed.
Technology Skills
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Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Bentley MicroStation
- Computer aided design and drafting software CADD
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Analytical or scientific software
- HYPACK MAX
- MicroSurvey FieldGenius
- Sokkia Spectrum Survey Suite
- Survey software
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Map creation software
- Bentley Systems InRoads Suite
- Geomechanical design analysis GDA software
- PC-Mapper software
- Sokkia Imap
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Geographic information system
- Cadcorp desktop GIS
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Geographic information system GIS systems
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Project management software
- Crones & Associations Project Tracker Pro
- Project analysis and costing software
- Project data integration software
Tools Used
- Theodolites
- Measuring rods
- Lasers
- Levels
- Laser measuring systems
Knowledge
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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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.
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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.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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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.
Skills
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Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Mathematical Reasoning
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Some college, no degree
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
Work Activities
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Direct surveying activities.
- Create maps.
- Document technical design details.
- Verify mathematical calculations.
- Survey land or bodies of water to measure or determine features.
Work Interests
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$41430.0 - $109660.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.