Land surveyor
Land surveyors measure the shape of the land, and gather data for civil engineering and construction projects.
Typical Salary
£20,000 – £50,000
per year
Working Hours
38–40
hours per week
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you will:
- collect and analyse data to map the land for civil engineering and construction projects
- carry out surveys and identify potential effects of construction on the environment
- use GPS and surveying instruments
- use digital images and satellite photos
- collect and analyse data using geographic information systems (GIS)
- monitor land movement as a result of construction and natural processes
- create charts and maps using computer aided design (CAD)
Skills needed
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- knowledge of geography
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to use your initiative
- excellent verbal communication skills
- thinking and reasoning skills
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to get into this role
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- a graduate training scheme
Career progression
With experience, you could move into project management or contract management. You could specialise in an aspect of surveying, or work as a self-employed consultant.
Applying for chartered status through RICScould improve your career prospects.
You may also be able to apply for chartered environmentalist status. You can find out more about being a chartered environmentalist from the Society for the Environment.