Planning & Development Surveyor
Job Description:Planning and development surveyors assess, design and manage development projects in towns, cities and rural areas.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could:
- research market data, like land and property records
- analyse figures using computer software
- assess whether plans are workable
- present your recommendations to clients
- oversee planning applications
- raise finances from funding bodies, investment
- companies and development agencies
- negotiate contracts and tenders
- advise clients about financial and legal matters, like compulsory purchases
- work out the likely economic, social and environmental impact of a development
Skills:
You’ll need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of geography
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- leadership skills
- customer service skills
- organisational skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Planning & Development Surveyor, you typically need a strong educational background in a relevant field, as well as relevant work experience. While there are no specific subjects required, certain subjects and skills can be advantageous for pursuing a career in this field. Below is a list of subjects and skills that can be helpful:
- Mathematics: A solid foundation in mathematics is essential for many aspects of surveying, including calculations related to land measurements, property values, and project budgets.
- English: Strong written and verbal communication skills are important for preparing reports, interacting with clients, and presenting findings.
- Geography: Geography can provide you with a basic understanding of landforms, geography, and spatial relationships, which are relevant to surveying and land development.
- Science: Science subjects like physics and environmental science can be beneficial for understanding the natural environment, including factors like soil composition and environmental impact assessments.
- Information Technology (IT): Proficiency in using computer software for data analysis, mapping, and project management is important in the modern surveying profession.
- Design and Technology: Courses related to design and technology can provide insights into architectural concepts and construction methods.
- Business Studies or Economics: These subjects can be helpful for understanding economic factors that influence property development and real estate markets.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a graduate training scheme
University
You’ll usually need a degree or professional qualification approved by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, in the UK, or equivalent in your country.
Relevant subjects include:
- surveying
- business studies
- economics
- estate management
- land and property development
If your degree is in a different subject, you could take an accredited postgraduate qualification in surveying.
College
You could take a college course and enter the profession at technician or higher technician level and then take further professional qualifications or a degree apprenticeship.
Courses include:
- Diploma in Construction (Level 3 in the UK)
- Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction (T Level in the UK)
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships relevant to this role include:
- Chartered surveyor degree apprenticeship (level 6 in the UK)
- Land referencer (Level 4 in the UK)
Work
If you have a higher national diploma or foundation degree in surveying or construction, you may be able to work as a surveying technician, and take further training on the job to qualify as a surveyor.
Other Routes
You could get a postgraduate qualification through a graduate trainee scheme with a company or through distance learning with the UK University College of Estate Management.
Registration
you can register with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors to become a chartered surveyor through the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) scheme
Working Hours and Environment:
Your typical working hours could be variable.
You could work at a client’s business, in an office or visit sites.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could be promoted to project or senior management roles, go into partnership in private practice, or become self-employed as a consultant.
You could also move into other areas of surveying or town planning.