Land surveyor

Entry Requirements:

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:

• 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

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could do a geospatial and mapping science degree apprenticeship.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

OtherRoutes

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 College of Estate Management , if you're working for a surveying practice.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• 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
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to read English
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• active listening skills
• knowledge of physics
• design skills and knowledge
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with others
• complex problem-solving skills
• excellent written communication skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Land surveyors measure the shape of the land, and gather data for civil engineering and construction projects.

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)

Location : You could work in an office or on a construction site.
Uniform : You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £50,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends away from home

Career Path:

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 .