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Nature of the Job:

Land surveyor usually works in road, tunnel and bridge construction, land redevelopment, mining and quarrying and in the installation of power and water supply networks.  

Basic Tasks:

• Conduct feasibility study to find if the location is accurate spot for the construction
• Create the miniature of the construction plans that would serve as the source of the site plans
• Measure the site using surveying instruments and global positioning system (GPS) to have a graphic presentation with exact coordinates of the site features and create photogrametric records
• Analyze and interpret data using geographic information systems (GIS)
• Drafting 2-D and 3-D charts and maps of an area with the use of computer-aided design (CAD) and other cartographic techniques
• Keep in touch with the engineering and architectural personnel, clients, and others concerned with project.
• Monitor the topography 

For hydrographic surveying or mapping inshore and offshore feature, the following tasks maybe assigned:

• Surveying natural waterways and canals for environmental projects
• Dredging operations
• Navigational charts
• Oil and gas exploration
• Undersea mining
• Locating and salvaging sunken ships 

Education and Training Requirements:

• Must be a graduate of course related to surveying, civil or geodetic engineer
• With two years experience as land surveyor 

Skills and Competency Requirements:

• Knowledge in CAD programs and surveying equipments

• Extensive knowledge in mathematics, science and IT skills, particularly databases
• Can analyze and interpret data
• Can communicate well and present data
• Analytic skills and resourceful in solving problems
• In-depth knowledge in planning environmental regulations, and health and safety
• For hydrographic work, it requires knowledge in navigation and experience of handling small marine craft.
• Can work as part of the team

Work Environment:

Land surveyors usually work both in office and in work site. But most of the time in the field like road, tunnel and bridge construction, land redevelopment, mining and quarrying, they can also work in mapping inshore and offshore features called hydrographic surveying.

Working Hours:

Land surveyor worked 35 to 40 hours a week. The work starts early in the morning and usually ends late. May also work during weekends to meet the deadlines.

Career Advancement:

Land surveyor can be promoted to overall project management, contract management, as self-employed consultant or depending on the type of the company organization.

Land surveyors are highly in demand in the Middle East countries such as Qatar, Saudi and United Arab Emirates.