What Does A Land Surveyor Do & What Does It Take To Become One?

What Does A Land Surveyor Do?

Land surveyors are able to complete a variety of tasks. This includes updating boundary lines and preparing sites for construction so that any legal disputes can be avoided. They can produce plots of surveys as well as describe the property.

Land surveyors are involved with measuring properties and pieces of land in order to determine their boundaries. Information about boundaries is important and necessary for many different reasons. It is useful for helping determine construction locations for roads and buildings. It can settle property line disputes and it leads to the creation of mapping.

Maps and legal survey plans made by a land surveyor are typically signed and sealed and can be considered a legal document. A surveyor can be called on to present their findings in a courtroom. Because of the legal and precise nature of work, an individual needs to be licensed before they commence work as a land surveyor.

In order to complete a land survey, a land surveyor will need to perform research about the area or assignment. This can include finding out the history of the property or gathering information by going into the field and making observations about the property. They will gather information by field work by entering the area, which will determine boundaries or topography.

During the process of a land survey, Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment might be used. This equipment uses satellite data to gather accurate information at a high efficiency. Once a land survey is finished, the findings are recorded usually by creating official reports and maps. In most cases, survey work is done with a team.

A land surveyor must know the laws and history of surveying in the area, they will also need to understand the mathematical concepts used to plot and measure. They must have computer skills adequate enough to use different types of technological equipment. They should also be able to focus on detail and complete tasks efficiently and in a timely manner.

What Does It Take To Become A Licensed Land Surveyor?

Depending on where you live, requirements can range from a high school diploma to a Bachelor’s degree.

Taking high school courses in algebra, trigonometry, geometry and drafting and computers will help to prepare you for land survey work. A bachelor’s degree is typically required but high school grades without post-secondary education might be enough for an apprenticeship with certain companies.

Many universities will offer programs in cartography, surveying and geography. Completing a program in engineering and computer science may also be useful for the land surveyor occupation. Getting a bachelor’s degree in surveying will teach you a mix of practical skills, fundamental concepts and theory. Courses can include GPS surveying, remote sensing, land information systems, or survey research. Technical schools and community colleges will offer surveying programs if you are looking for a two year diploma or degree.

Lastly, you will need to obtain a land surveyor’s license with your local area’s official governing body for land surveying. This can involve the passing of exams and assessment, along with articling time, that will allow you to become a professional surveyor on your own.