How to Be Surveying Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 10, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Surveying technicians use specialized equipment and tools to collect data and measure land, sea, and air surfaces. Their work is essential for the planning, development, and construction of roads, bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure projects. Without surveying technicians, architects and engineers would not be able to accurately plan and design these structures.

The lack of accurate surveying data can lead to costly mistakes and delays in the construction process. Furthermore, surveying technicians also provide important data for cartography and geographic information systems (GIS), which are used to understand the environment and help manage natural resources. Without their expertise, the physical environment would become less safe and less efficient.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. To become a Surveying Technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Consider postsecondary education. Many employers prefer to hire Surveying Technicians who have postsecondary education. Courses in surveying and related subjects such as mathematics, physics, and computer science can be taken at community colleges or technical schools.
Get some on-the-job training. Although not always required, a Surveying Technician can benefit from on-the-job training. Most employers will provide this training if the technician shows interest in learning the ropes.
Earn certification. Certification is not required to become a Surveying Technician, but it can help establish credibility and demonstrate proficiency. The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPE) offers certification programs for surveyors and technicians.
Obtain licensure. Depending on the state, practicing surveyors may need to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state, so its best to check with the local government before attempting to practice surveying.

Being a Surveying Technician requires staying up to date with the latest technology, as well as acquiring and maintaining the necessary skills to be capable. To stay updated, one must take advantage of continuing education opportunities offered by post-secondary institutions, professional organizations, and industry-specific conferences. reading the latest industry magazines and journals, attending seminars, and engaging in conversations with other professionals can help to ensure that one is well informed.

To maintain capability, it is important to practice the skills needed on a regular basis and to keep up with any changes in the field. staying involved in professional organizations can help to ensure that one is informed of any advancements in the field. By taking these steps, a Surveying Technician can remain current and capable.

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Job Description

Prepare survey sites for data collection, including setting up and maintaining surveying equipment and instruments.
Collect survey data, including measurements of distance, angles, elevations, and other related information.
Process and analyze data using surveying software and other tools.
Prepare maps and diagrams illustrating the survey results.
Ensure accuracy of survey data by performing quality control checks.
Maintain survey equipment and records.
Provide technical advice and assistance to other surveyors or engineering staff.
Assist in engineering projects that involve surveying work.
Respond to customer inquiries regarding survey results.
Participate in field research and surveys as required.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and maps.
Knowledge of surveying instruments, methods, and procedures.
Ability to accurately measure distances, angles, and elevations.
Proficiency in the use of computers and related software programs to collect, analyze, and record survey data.
Ability to use advanced surveying technologies, such as global positioning systems (GPS) and geographic information systems (GIS).
Knowledge of local and federal regulations related to surveying.
Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to adhere to safety protocols and regulations.

Surveying technicians play a critical role in the surveying process, as they are responsible for the accuracy of the survey results. They must possess a variety of skills, including accuracy and attention to detail, knowledge of surveying tools and technology, and mathematical and physical skills, as well as strong communication and problem-solving skills. The most important skill for a surveying technician is their ability to accurately measure distances, angles, and other physical characteristics in order to collect precise data.

This data is then used to create maps, boundary surveys, and other surveying products. Without accurate measurements and calculations, survey results can be inaccurate, leading to costly mistakes. surveying technicians must be able to use computers and software to input data and produce necessary reports.

Lastly, surveying technicians must be able to follow safety protocols in order to ensure the safety of themselves and others. Without these skills, surveying technicians would not be able to provide accurate survey results or work safely.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in surveying and mapping?
How familiar are you with using surveying equipment and software?
What techniques do you use to ensure accurate measurements?
What challenges have you faced when interpreting survey data?
How do you stay organized when collecting and analyzing data?
What steps do you take to ensure safety on the job?
How would you handle a situation where the survey results conflict with the clients expectations?
Describe your experience in creating maps and diagrams with survey data.
Do you have any experience in developing survey reports?
What methods do you use to ensure accuracy in your work?

Common Tools in Industry

Total Station. A surveying instrument used to measure angles and distances between points. (eg: Leica Total Station)
Laser Level. A tool used to establish a leveled line for reference in surveying. (eg: Spectra Precision Laser Level)
Theodolite. An instrument used to measure horizontal and vertical angles in land surveying. (eg: Cst/berger Theodolite)
GPS Receiver. A device used to locate and track position using the Global Positioning System. (eg: Trimble GNSS Receiver)
Data Collector. A handheld device used for collecting, storing and transferring digital data in surveying. (eg: Topcon FC-5000 Data Collector)
Tripod. A three-legged stand used to mount surveying instruments for stability. (eg: Stabila Tripod)
Measuring Tape. A flexible measuring instrument used to measure distances and lengths. (eg: Keson Measuring Tape)
Prism Pole. An instrument used to reflect a laser beam from a reflector back to the source. (eg: SOKKIA Prism Pole)
Level Staff. A surveying instrument used to measure height differences between points. (eg: Wild Heerbrugg Level Staff)
Digital Camera. A device used to take pictures to document surveying sites and projects. (eg: Canon EOS Digital Camera)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS)
American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM)
International Federation of Surveyors (FIG)
Association of Land Surveyors of Ontario (ALSO)
American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)
Institute of Professional Land Surveyors (IPLS)
International Institute for Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC)
Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)
International Association of Geodesy (IAG)

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Common Important Terms

Topographic Map. A graphical representation of the physical features of a region, including landforms, bodies of water, and man-made features.
Geodetic Survey. The process of measuring the shape and size of the Earth, as well as its gravitational field.
Leveling. The process of determining the height of a point relative to a known reference point.
GPS Surveying. The use of Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites and receivers to measure the position of points on the Earth.
Photogrammetry. The use of aerial photographs to measure distances, elevations, and other features.
Cadastral Surveying. The process of creating maps of property boundaries and ownership.
Geomatics. The science that applies technology to measure, store, analyze, and present data related to the Earth.
GIS. A computer system used to capture, store, analyze, manage, and present geographic information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Surveying Technician?

A Surveying Technician is a professional who is trained to measure, map and analyze land areas in order to prepare maps, plans and diagrams for engineering, construction and land development projects.

What qualifications are needed to become a Surveying Technician?

To become a Surveying Technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some form of post-secondary education in surveying, mapping or related fields. You must also be registered with the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM).

What skills are needed to be successful as a Surveying Technician?

As a Surveying Technician, you must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as strong technical and problem-solving abilities. You must also be able to work independently and as part of a team, and be proficient in the use of surveying equipment such as total stations, GPS systems and aerial photography.

What type of work environment will a Surveying Technician typically work in?

Surveying Technicians often work outdoors in all types of weather and terrain. The work environment can vary from construction sites to residential and commercial properties.