How to Be Construction Surveyor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 17, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Surveyors play an important role in the construction industry by gauging the size and shape of land being built upon. They use specialized equipment and techniques to measure the exact dimensions of a property, preparing detailed diagrams and drawings that form the basis for engineering plans. Without accurate surveys, it would be impossible to accurately design and construct buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.

In addition, surveyors are responsible for ensuring that land is used in accordance with government regulations, helping to protect the environment from overdevelopment. By providing an accurate assessment of a property, surveyors help make sure that construction projects are completed safely and on time.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. To become a construction surveyor, you must have at least a high school diploma or GED. Most employers prefer that construction surveyors have a college degree in surveying, engineering, or a related field.
Take Courses in Mathematics and Science. You should take courses in mathematics and science in high school to prepare for a career as a construction surveyor. In addition to basic math and science, you should also take courses in trigonometry, physics, and engineering.
Pursue an Associate's Degree in Surveying. After completing high school, you should pursue an associate's degree in surveying. This program will teach you the basics of surveying and provide you with hands-on experience.
Become Licensed. Most states require construction surveyors to be licensed. To become licensed, you must pass a written exam administered by your state's licensing board.
Gain Experience. After becoming licensed, you should seek out internships or entry-level positions with surveying firms. This will give you the experience you need to become an effective construction surveyor.
Obtain Certification. To demonstrate competence and knowledge in the field, you should consider obtaining certification from the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). To become certified, you must pass an exam and meet other requirements set by the NSPS.

Surveying is a critical part of the construction process, and surveyors are essential to the successful completion of any building project. Accurate surveying requires a combination of technical knowledge, physical skill, and experience. To become a surveyor, one must complete an accredited program, pass a licensing exam, and have experience in the field.

This combination of education and work experience can help a surveyor develop a strong understanding of the principles of surveying and the ability to accurately measure and map land. As a result, surveyors are capable of providing the data needed to identify and accurately mark boundaries, determine elevations and distances, and create plans for projects. Furthermore, their expertise allows them to identify potential environmental or safety risks before they become an issue.

having skilled and capable surveyors is essential to successful construction projects.

You may want to check Mine Surveyor, Property Surveyor, and Highway Surveyor for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare survey plans and reports
Research and analyze survey data
Calculate elevations and distances
Establish survey control by setting ground markers
Use remote sensing techniques and GPS equipment to collect data
Monitor construction activities to ensure accuracy of surveys
Operate various survey instruments, such as theodolites, levels, EDMs, total stations, and data collectors
Supervise survey technicians and other personnel
Work with engineers, architects, and other professionals to ensure accuracy of surveys
Manage survey projects to ensure accuracy and timeliness of deliverables
Maintain records and files of survey data

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of land survey techniques and federal, state, and local regulations
Ability to use surveying instruments, such as total stations, levels, and theodolites
Ability to read and interpret maps, blueprints, and other survey-related documents
Knowledge of boundary, topographic, and other specific survey types
Proficiency with computer programs such as AutoCAD, Trimble GPS, and ArcGIS
Ability to calculate area and volume
Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
Ability to work in extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain
Knowledge of safety procedures and regulations

The role of a surveyor is vital in the construction industry, and having the right skills is essential for success. In order to be successful, a surveyor must have a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, excellent communication skills, knowledge of surveying equipment and software, and an understanding of the relevant laws and regulations. Accuracy is key in order to ensure that the measurements taken are precise so that the construction project can be executed correctly from start to finish.

Good communication skills are also important in order to convey information clearly to contractors, engineers, and other stakeholders involved in the project. Knowledge of surveying equipment and software can help a surveyor to accurately measure and map the land, while an understanding of the relevant laws and regulations will ensure that the project is being done in compliance with all applicable codes and standards. All of these skills are necessary for surveyors to be successful in the construction industry.

Geodetic Surveyor, Mining Surveyor, and Environmental Surveyor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What previous experience do you have as a Construction Surveyor?
What challenges have you faced while working on construction surveys?
How do you ensure accuracy when collecting data?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest technology and techniques used in surveying?
Describe your experience with stakeout and boundary surveys?
What methods do you use to ensure safety on a construction site?
What methods do you use to keep accurate records of survey data?
What strategies do you use to keep projects on schedule and on budget?
Describe a difficult situation you faced while working as a Construction Surveyor and how you resolved it?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects at once?

Common Tools in Industry

Total Station. A surveying instrument which combines an electronic theodolite with an electronic distance meter. (eg: Trimble SPS986)
GPS Receiver. A device that receives Global Positioning System signals for surveying and mapping applications. (eg: Trimble R10)
Data Collector. A portable digital device used for collecting data in the field and storing it for future use. (eg: Trimble TDC100)
Levels. An instrument used to measure differences in elevations. (eg: Wild Heerbrugg T2)
Prism Pole. A device used to measure angles between two points. (eg: Leica GLS11)
Survey Software. A computer program used to process survey data and create maps. (eg: Trimble Business Center)
Laser Scanner. A device that uses laser beams to precisely measure distances and angles in three dimensions. (eg: Faro Focus S350)
Drone. An unmanned aerial vehicle that can be used to take aerial photographs or survey larger areas. (eg: DJI Inspire 2)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM)
National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS)
Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)
National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
International Federation of Surveyors (FIG)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)
International Association of Geodetic Surveyors (IAG)
American Association for Geodetic Surveying (AAGS)
American Association of Land Surveyors (AALS)

We also have GIS Surveyor, Land Development Surveyor, and Hydrographic Surveyor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Land Surveying. The practice of measuring and mapping land boundaries, distances, angles, elevations, and other features of the land.
Topography. The study of the physical features of a particular area, including its elevation, slope, and geological formations.
Global Positioning System (GPS). A satellite-based system used to pinpoint the exact location of an object on the earths surface.
Geodetic Datum. A reference point or set of points used in the calculation of a surveyor's measurements.
Horizontal Control. A system of survey measurements used to establish a baseline for the horizontal location of points on a map.
Leveling. A process used to measure the vertical differences between two or more points on the earth's surface.
Trigonometric Leveling. A method of determining elevation differences by measuring angles and distances between two or more points on the earth's surface.
Photogrammetry. The use of aerial photographs to measure distances, angles, and elevations.
Remote Sensing. The collection of data about an object or area using sensors located away from the object or area being studied.
GIS (Geographic Information System). A computer-based system for collecting, storing, analyzing and displaying spatial data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Construction Surveyor?

A Construction Surveyor is a professional who uses measurement and mapping technologies to measure, analyze, and document land and building structures. They are responsible for providing accurate measurements throughout the construction process to ensure safe and efficient construction.

What qualifications do you need to be a Construction Surveyor?

To become a Construction Surveyor, you typically need an associate or bachelor's degree in surveying or a related field, such as civil engineering or mathematics. You may also need to complete an apprenticeship or field experience with a qualified surveyor.

What skills are important for a Construction Surveyor?

A Construction Surveyor needs excellent technical skills and knowledge of mapping technologies as well as strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills. They must also have solid knowledge of relevant building codes and regulations.

What is the job outlook for Construction Surveyors?

The job outlook for Construction Surveyors is good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of surveyors is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029.

What are the typical duties of a Construction Surveyor?

The typical duties of a Construction Surveyor include measuring and mapping land and building structures, analyzing survey data, creating survey plans, preparing legal documents, and monitoring construction progress. They also must ensure that projects meet all safety and legal standards.