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

Jun 28, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Utility surveying is an important process used by city planners and utility companies to identify the location of underground pipes, cables, and other utilities. By accurately surveying these utilities, planners can avoid costly construction delays and minimize the impact on infrastructure. Utility surveying is carried out using a variety of methods such as geophysical surveys, electromagnetic surveys, or ground penetrating radar.

The results of the survey are then used to generate a map of the area, outlining any existing or planned utilities, which is necessary for any further construction or development. Failure to accurately survey a site before construction can result in high costs due to equipment damage or human injury due to unexpected utility lines. As such, it is essential that utility surveys be conducted before any new construction or development begins.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelors Degree. A utility surveyor must typically have at least a bachelors degree in surveying or a related field. Relevant degrees include civil engineering, geomatics, or geographic information systems.
Get Licensed. Most states require utility surveyors to have a professional license. Requirements vary by state but typically involve passing an exam and having a certain number of years of professional experience.
Obtain On-the-Job Training. Although some formal education is required, most of the skills needed to be a successful utility surveyor are learned on the job. Most employers provide on-the-job training to new hires.
Take Continuing Education Courses. Utility surveyors should take continuing education courses to stay up to date on the latest technologies and advancements in the field.
Join Professional Organizations. Professional organizations such as the National Society of Professional Surveyors are an excellent way to stay connected to the industry, network with other professionals, and stay up to date on industry news and trends.

Utility surveyors are responsible for carrying out a range of tasks to ensure safe, effective and efficient operation of utilities. By accurately measuring and mapping utility networks, they can identify potential issues and plan appropriate solutions. This helps to prevent costly damage and disruption, as well as reduce energy and water wastage.

In addition, they are able to identify areas where new infrastructure is needed, helping to support economic growth. As a result, utility surveyors play a vital role in the development and maintenance of essential utilities, ensuring the smooth running of society.

You may want to check Railroad Surveyor, Building Surveyor, and Mine Surveyor for alternative.

Job Description

Research and analyze survey data to determine the most accurate and efficient survey methods.
Draft survey plans and maps using specialized survey software.
Plan and execute surveys using a variety of equipment such as total stations, GPS receivers, and robotic total stations.
Create survey reports detailing the results of the surveys.
Utilize survey-grade GPS receivers to perform boundary, topographic, and GIS surveys.
Utilize drafting software such as AutoCAD and Civil 3D to create topographic surveys and maps.
Prepare legal documents such as easements, plats, and land descriptions for submission to agencies and recording offices.
Mark and record locations of land features such as buildings, roads, boundaries, and utility lines for mapping purposes.
Monitor construction projects to ensure accuracy of surveys and data collection.
Investigate discrepancies in survey data and recommend corrective measures if needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of survey equipment and tools, including total stations, GPS systems, levels, transits and theodolites
Understanding of modern surveying processes and techniques
Ability to interpret survey data and create accurate maps
Knowledge of geospatial computer systems and software programs
Excellent problem-solving skills
Ability to work in a team environment
Strong attention to detail
Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

A Utility Surveyor plays an important role in ensuring that the infrastructure of a city is running safely and efficiently. One of the most important skills for a Utility Surveyor to have is knowledge of civil engineering standards and practices. This knowledge involves understanding the principles of surveying, mapping, and land development, as well as being aware of applicable laws, regulations and zoning ordinances.

Having a comprehensive understanding of these areas is essential in order to accurately and effectively assess the structural integrity of utility systems and ensure that they are operating in compliance with local and national standards. Another important skill a Utility Surveyor must possess is the ability to effectively communicate with other professionals, such as engineers and architects, to ensure that all aspects of a project are properly addressed. Lastly, having strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think quickly and creatively in order to find solutions to any issues that may arise is also key for a successful Utility Surveyor.

By having these skills, a Utility Surveyor can ensure that all utility systems are performing safely and reliably.

Environmental Surveyor, Land Development Surveyor, and Hydrographic Surveyor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in utility surveying?
How do you ensure precise measurements when surveying utilities?
How do you stay up to date on new surveying technology?
What challenges have you faced while surveying utilities?
Describe a time when you had to work under a tight deadline for a surveying job.
What safety protocols do you follow when surveying utilities?
What methods do you use to ensure accuracy when surveying?
How do you handle difficult customers when surveying utilities?
What experience do you have in interpreting survey data?
How do you handle competing priorities when surveying utilities?

Common Tools in Industry

Total Station. A surveying instrument that combines an electronic theodolite and an electronic distance meter to measure horizontal and vertical angles, as well as distances. (eg: Leica iCON robot 50)
GPS Receiver. A device that receives signals from satellites to accurately pinpoint a location on Earth. (eg: Trimble R10)
Leveling Rod. A rod with a graduated scale used to measure the difference in elevation between two points. (eg: Spectra Precision LR50)
Data Collector. A handheld device used to store survey data, such as coordinates of points. (eg: Trimble Juno 5B)
Prism Pole. A pole with a mounted prism used to reflect laser light for distance measurement. (eg: Leica GPR111)
Dumpy Level. A simple surveying instrument used to measure small differences in elevation. (eg: Topcon DL-103N)
Measuring Tape. A tape that measures horizontal distances. (eg: Stanley Powerlock 25)
Clipboard. A board with a clip used to hold paper in the field while taking notes or measurements. (eg: Rite in the Rain All-Weather Clipboard)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Congress on Surveying and Mapping
National Society of Professional Surveyors
American Association for Geodetic Surveying
International Association of Geodesy
International Federation of Surveyors
American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
American Society of Civil Engineers
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
National Society of Professional Engineers
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

We also have Cadastral Surveyor, GPR Surveyor, and Marine Surveyor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Topographic Survey. A survey that measures and records the elevation of points on the Earth's surface.
Geodetic Survey. A survey that measures and records the shape and size of the Earth, as well as its gravitational field.
Hydrographic Survey. A survey that measures and records the depth and characteristics of bodies of water.
Photogrammetry. The process of obtaining measurements from photographs, usually to create maps or other cartographic products.
Remote Sensing. The use of sensors to measure and record characteristics of the environment from a distance.
GIS. Geographic Information System, a computer system used to store, analyze, and display geographic data.
GPS. Global Positioning System, a satellite-based navigation system used to determine location and track movement.
Cadastral Survey. A survey that records the boundaries and other relevant information about land parcels for use in property management and tax assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Utility Surveyor?

A Utility Surveyor is a professional who is responsible for determining the presence and location of underground utilities, such as gas, water, and electric lines.

What qualifications are necessary to become a Utility Surveyor?

To become a Utility Surveyor, one typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and experience in the industry, such as in surveying or construction.