Land/geomatics surveyors use state-of-the-art equipment, such as global positioning systems (GPS), global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and spatial imaging devices to accumulate, interpret and analyse data on specific areas of land.
These guys are vital to the construction, cartography and mineral exploration industries. Without their expertise, land would never be redeveloped, maps would never be made, and mining operations would never be given the go-ahead.
Essentially, land/geomatics surveyors measure terrain on behalf of their clients, gathering data on everything from elevation to distance. Once the data has been amassed, it’s a land/geomatics surveyor’s job to process the data and interpret it using computer-aided design (CAD) and digital mapping software.
Finally, land/geomatics surveyors are responsible for analysing and evaluating the information they’ve formatted, drawing conclusions, and then presenting that information to clients in a clear and concise manner.
Salary & benefits
At entry-level, land/geomatics surveyors tend to earn between £20,000 and £25,000 per annum. The annual salaries of chartered surveyors who have recently qualified typically range from £25,000 to £35,000.
Senior land/geomatics surveyors can earn up to £70,000 and beyond.
Working hours
Land/geomatics surveyors typically work five days a week, nine-to-five. However, weekend work may be required from time to time.
Travelling around the country is a regular occurrence for most land/geomatics surveyors. A lot of your professional life will also be spent in the great outdoors.
Consequently, investing in a decent raincoat is a good idea. After all, a little bit of drizzle shouldn’t stop you from fulfilling your duties.
Entry
The majority of employers look for graduates with a degree in surveying or another relevant subject, such as geography, geology, environmental geoscience, maths, physics, civil engineering or earth science.
If you do not have a relevant degree, you can always complete a postgraduate qualification in surveying to boost your chances of securing an entry-level position.
School leavers can also enter this line of work via a surveying apprenticeship.
Training & progression
The majority of your training will be done whilst on the job. However, you may occasionally be required to attend training courses run by external organisations to keep up-to-date with all the latest advances in surveying technology.
Becoming a chartered surveyor, courtesy of a professional body such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, can be vital for career progression.
As you progress, you will most likely move into a managerial position, where you’ll be responsible for the training and supervision of junior staff members. Freelance work is another option.
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