Surveying Technician

Job Description:

Surveying technicians carry out tasks to support chartered surveyors, architects and engineers.

Job Category:
Engineering & Construction

What you will do:

Depending on the field of surveying you work in, you could:

  • estimate and draw up project costs
  • measure and record data on land, buildings or construction projects
  • create plans using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software
  • assist with environmental impact assessments
  • survey buildings or map land use
  • value land, property and machinery
  • organise the sale of assets by auction
  • visit sites to report on the progress of projects

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • maths knowledge
  • knowledge of geography
  • design skills and knowledge
  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • knowledge of building and construction
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

As well as:

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship

University

You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

  • construction
  • building surveying
  • civil engineering

College

You can take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for the job. This may help you when you apply for a trainee position.

In the UK, for example, relevant courses include:

  • Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment
  • Diploma in Engineering Surveying
  • Diploma in Civil Engineering for Technicians
  • Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction

Apprenticeship

You could do a surveying technician advanced apprenticeship.

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 45-47 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends flexibly.

You could work in an office, visit sites or on a construction site. Your working environment may be at height and outdoors in all weathers. You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Career Path & Progression:

You could become self-employed and work as a freelance surveying technician.

With experience and further training you could become a professional surveyor.