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

Jun 8, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increased use of technology in the field of Exploration Surveyor has caused a shift in the way surveyors operate. This has been beneficial to surveyors as it has enabled them to work faster, more accurately and with greater efficiency. Furthermore, the use of GPS, drones and other technology has allowed for a more precise mapping of land and terrain.

Consequently, this has led to a reduction in cost and time spent on projects, and an increase in the quality of data obtained. the use of these technologies has allowed for greater collaboration between surveyors, leading to more efficient and accurate results.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field such as geography, surveying, geomatics, or civil engineering.
Become certified in your state as a surveyor by completing an approved surveyor-in-training program, passing the Fundamentals of Surveying exam, and completing a two-year surveyor-in-training program.
Submit your application to the state board of registration for surveyors.
Get a job as an exploratory surveyor with a surveying firm.
Participate in fieldwork to collect data and observations that will be used to create maps and plans.
Use specialized tools to measure distances and angles, and record the data on a computer or in written form.
Analyze the data collected and create maps and plans accordingly.
Work with other professionals such as engineers and architects to plan projects.
Maintain records of the surveys and maps created.
Keep abreast of new technologies and techniques used in surveying and mapping.

The development of skilled and capable Exploratory Surveyors requires a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge. Proper training and experience are vital to learning the right techniques, methods, and tools for properly collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. This often involves attending specialized courses, seminars, and workshops to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter, as well as developing the necessary skills to carry out the task effectively.

regular practice in the field and honing already acquired skills is essential to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field, as well as being able to effectively handle more complex assignments. All of these elements combined will ensure that Exploratory Surveyors are able to deliver accurate results that meet the highest standards.

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Job Description

Design and develop survey instruments for use in research projects.
Collect and analyze data from surveys.
Develop survey questions to capture relevant information.
Identify and recommend appropriate sampling techniques to ensure reliable survey results.
Develop procedures for data collection and validation.
Interpret survey results and develop reports for stakeholders.
Utilize statistical software to analyze data and present results.
Create models to test hypotheses and determine trends in survey data.
Monitor survey progress and provide timely updates to stakeholders.
Understand research objectives and develop appropriate survey designs.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent communication skills
Strong knowledge of the geographic area
Ability to read and interpret maps
Knowledge of surveying methodologies
Proficiency in the use of surveying tools and equipment
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Attention to detail
Problem-solving skills
Technical analysis skills
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Good physical fitness
Creativity and resourcefulness
Ability to communicate with clients and colleagues

The ability to accurately map and survey an area is an essential skill for an exploratory surveyor. Good mapping and surveying skills require knowledge of mathematics, engineering, and geography. Without strong math skills, surveyors are unable to accurately measure distances, angles, elevations, and other important considerations when surveying an area.

Engineering knowledge allows surveyors to use the latest technology and methods in mapping and surveying. A thorough understanding of geography gives surveyors the ability to accurately interpret features of the terrain, vegetation, soil, and other factors that can affect the accuracy of a survey. All of these skills combined enable an exploratory surveyor to accurately map and survey an area, providing the necessary data for engineering, construction, and land management projects.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What motivated you to pursue a career in exploratory surveying?
How would you describe your experience in exploratory surveying?
What techniques do you use when carrying out an exploration survey?
How do you ensure accuracy when conducting an exploration survey?
What challenges have you faced when conducting exploration surveys?
What kind of geophysical instruments do you use for exploratory surveying?
What types of data analysis do you employ when interpreting the results of an exploration survey?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in exploration surveying?
Describe a difficult situation that you have faced while conducting an exploration survey and how you overcame it.
What safety protocols do you follow when conducting an exploration survey?

Common Tools in Industry

Geographic Information System (GIS). A system that combines hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying geographically-referenced information. Eg: ArcGIS
Mapping Software. Software used to develop maps and other graphic displays of geographic information. Eg: QGIS
Data Collection Software. Software used to capture data from the field to create digital maps and datasets. Eg: Survey123
Remote Sensing Software. Software used to analyze imagery captured from spacecraft and aircraft to map the Earths surface. Eg: ENVI
Global Positioning System (GPS). A system of satellites and receivers used to determine an objects geographic coordinates. Eg: Garmin GPS
Total Station. An instrument used to measure distances and angles in the field for surveying purposes. Eg: Trimble Total Station

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of American Surveyors (AAS)
National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS)
International Federation of Surveyors (FIG)
International Association of Geodesy (IAG)
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems International (UAVSI)
Cartography and Geographic Information Society (CaGIS)
American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM)
Institute of Navigation (ION)
American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry Society (RSPSoc)

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Common Important Terms

Cartography. The art and science of producing maps.
Geodesy. The study of the size and shape of the Earth, as well as its gravitational and magnetic fields.
Surveying. The process of measuring and collecting data about the Earth's surface, including its boundaries and features.
Topography. The study of the physical features of an area, usually shown on a map.
Remote Sensing. The use of aerial photography, satellite imagery and other methods to collect information about an area.
GIS (Geographic Information Systems). Software used to analyze and visualize geographic data in order to make informed decisions or gain insights into patterns and trends.
Geomatics. The science of collecting, storing, processing and analyzing geographical information.
Geographic Coordinate System. A system used to locate points on the Earths surface using coordinates such as latitude and longitude.
GPS (Global Positioning System). A satellite-based navigation system used to determine the location of a user on the Earths surface.
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). A network of satellites that provide positioning, navigation and timing services to users worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Exploratory Surveyor?

An Exploratory Surveyor is a professional that evaluates land, mineral, and water resources. They conduct surveys to identify the location, boundaries, and characteristics of land, water and mineral resources, and to evaluate their potential for development.

What qualifications does an Exploratory Surveyor need?

An Exploratory Surveyor needs a degree in surveying or a related field such as geography, engineering or geology. They also need to be certified by a professional association such as the Association of British Geomatics or the International Association of Land Surveyors.

What methods do Exploratory Surveyors use?

Exploratory Surveyors use a variety of methods, including aerial photography, remote sensing, ground penetrating radar, and geophysical surveys. They also use traditional surveying techniques such as traversing and triangulation.

What equipment do Exploratory Surveyors use?

Exploratory Surveyors use specialized equipment such as drones, Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, theodolites, total stations, levelers and tripods. They may also use computers and software to analyze data and create maps.

What applications do Exploratory Surveys have?

Exploratory Surveys are used for a variety of applications, such as mapping land boundaries, locating water resources, identifying mineral deposits and assessing land for development projects. They are also used to monitor environmental changes and provide evidence for legal disputes.