Geomatics/land surveyor

Geomatics / land surveyor job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Employers of geomatics/land surveyors include private surveying practices, civil engineering contractors/consultancies, rail operators, mining companies, local authorities, central government and utilities. Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• undertaking land surveys/measurements using a variety of specialist technical equipment (including theodolites, laser alignment devices, satellite positioning systems etc.)
• analysing data using plans, maps, charts and computer applications such as CAD and GIS
• presenting data to clients
• advising about technical, financial and legal matters
• writing reports
• managing projects and/or multi-disciplinary teams
• producing and/or advising about construction plans and drawings.

Vacancies are advertised via the internet, by careers services and specialist recruitment agencies, in newspapers and publications such as Civil Engineering Surveyor, Chartered Surveyor, New Civil Engineer, Planning and Opportunities. Other useful publications include Municipal Yearbook, RICS Directory (available via the internet), TARGETjobs Construction, Civil Engineering & QS, and TARGETjobs Property. It is advisable to apply early for all vacancies and to make speculative applications to private sector employers.

Qualifications and training required

Individuals wishing to enter the profession must normally obtain a degree/diploma that is accredited by one of the professional bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors or the Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors. Consequently although graduates from any background can become land surveyors, most have relevant degrees in subjects such as civil/structural engineering, geophysics, geology, geography, geotechnology, land/estate surveying, planning or building.

An appropriate postgraduate qualification is necessary for graduates from other non-accredited degree disciplines. To gain chartered status a minimum of two years' vocational experience is also required (three years for graduates with non-accredited degrees).

Any previous relevant work experience gained via job shadowing, vacation work or placements can be helpful, and can contribute towards vocational experience requirements.

Key skills for geomatics and land surveyors

Candidates must be numerate and technically competent, with excellent IT, problem solving, analytical, negotiation, interpersonal and managerial skills. A full driving licence is also usually needed.