Surveying technician

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

Entry requirements:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

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.

Relevant courses include:

• Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment
• Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Surveying
• Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering for Technicians
• T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level

Apprenticeship

You could do a surveying technician advanced apprenticeship.

After you've completed an apprenticeship, you can become an associate member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors .

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• maths knowledge
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of geography
• analytical thinking skills
• design skills and knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• knowledge of building and construction
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• 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
• the ability to work well with your hands
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• active listening skills
• excellent written communication skills
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

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

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

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

Salary:

Starter : £18,000
Experienced : £28,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

45 - 47 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends flexibly

Career Path:

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

With experience and further training you could become a professional surveyor. You can get support to do this from the Chartered Surveyor's Training Trust .