*Job
Description:
Surveyors use their training and skills to measure distances,
directions, and angles whenever there are roads, bridges, dams or
residential areas to be built. They establish land maps and mark
boundaries to determine ownership and rights in properties (land,
water, right-of-ways) to resolve boundary disputes between neighbors
and for any subdivision of land, building developments, etc.
Surveyors research legal
records such as land deeds and survey ground markings (stakes, pegs,
steel rods) that are used to mark previous boundary lines. They also
prepare plots and maps.
Advanced technology has
replaced the old measuring method of chains and plumb lines to GPS
(Global Positioning System), laptops, and robotic total stations.
Another valuable tool used by Surveyors is a computer software known as
GIS (Geographic Information Systems). Surveyors use GPS to locate
reference points with a higher degree of precision.
Surveying
technicians and helpers work out in the field
and gather the information needed by the surveyor. Surveying
Technicians measures and records distances, angles and elevations. They
make sketches and acquire data to enter into computers either in the
field or at the office.
*Land
Surveying Training & Education:
Surveyors
must have a thorough knowledge of Algebra, Drafting, Mechanical
Drawing, and Trigonometry. They also must know the laws that deal with
surveys, property, and contracts. Surveyors are required to get a
license which may vary by state. Many states require a Bachelor of
Science in Civil Engineering with additional courses in surveying.
After graduating the individual may be eligible to sit for the
Fundamentals of Land Surveying exam, to be certified upon passing and
meeting all other requirements as a Surveyor In Training (SIT). When
certified as an SIT the individual then needs to get additional
experience to become eligible to take the Principles and Practice of
Land Surveying exam along with a state-specific exam.
*Job
Outlook:
Overall employment for
Surveyors and Technicians is projected to grow 9% to 17% through 2014.
As technologies become more advanced job opportunities will be greater
for Surveyors who have a Bachelors degree and strong technical skills.
With new technologies, such as GPS and GIS will improve job
opportunities for Surveyors and for Surveying Technicians who have
acquired the technical skills that enable them to work with the new
systems.
*Working
Conditions:
Surveyors and Surveying
Technicians generally work a typical 40 hour week with most of that
time working out in the field. During the summer with longer daylight
hours they often work longer hours in the field. Work may be limited
and delayed during inclement weather. Sometimes the job can be
strenuous work climbing hills and walking considerable distances with
heavy instruments and other equipment.
*Estimated
Average Annual Earnings:
Licensed
Land Surveyor $43,000 depending on location.
Survey Technician $31,000.
