Land surveyor
Land surveyors measure the shape of the land, and gather data for civil engineering and construction projects.
Also known as: Geographic information systems (GIS) surveyor, geomatics surveyor
- Starter salary£20,000 a year
- Experienced£50,000 a year
- Typical hours38 to 40 a week
What you'll do
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)
Working environment
You could work in an office or on a construction site.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- 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 become a land surveyor
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- a graduate training scheme
University
You'll usually need a relevant degree or postgraduate qualification, accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors .
Relevant subjects include:
- surveying
- civil engineering
- geomatics
- geographical information science
You may be able to do a postgraduate conversion course if your first degree is not related to surveying.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do Geospatial and Mapping Science Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, or a Spatial Data Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Other routes
You could get a postgraduate qualification through a graduate trainee scheme.
You could also get a graduate diploma in surveying by distance learning, with the University of the Built Environment , if you're working for a surveying practice.
Career path and 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 RICS could 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 .
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Registration
- you can register with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors to become a chartered surveyor through the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) scheme
Guides for this industry
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