Geodetic Surveyors
Geodetic surveyors measure large areas of the Earth's surface using satellite observations, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), light detection and ranging (LIDAR), or related sources.
A geodetic surveyor's job is to identify the exact position of distant points on the surface of the earth to get survey information and preliminary data required by engineers for selecting suitable routes and sites. Geodetic engineering is a professional and orderly act of gathering physical data on the surface of the earth with the use of precision instruments and involves the scientific and methodical handling of data while presenting them on maps, charts, plans, graphs or documents.
The position of engineer surveyor involves specialising in the lifting equipment and crane discipline to undertake the thorough inspection, of various types of lifts, lifting machinery, cranes and materials handling equipment. This ensures compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements.
How to be a geodetic surveyor? They normally hold a degree in civil engineering or a pertinent field and a surveyor certificate. They have an impressive mathematical and problem-solving aptitude and collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines, such as architects or engineers. Engineer surveyors should know how to work with a global positioning system and be familiar with computer-aided design software.
With experience and internships, geodetic surveyors find jobs in the private sector for multidisciplinary engineering consulting. Many geotechnical engineers work for state, federal, or local governments for public works and utility improvement.
For a successful career as a geodetic engineer, always keep the 'can-do' attitude; be detail-orientated to make correct judgements.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- B.Sc. Land Surveying
- B.Tech Civil Engineering
- Diploma Land Surveying
Tasks
- Review existing standards, controls, or equipment used, recommending changes or upgrades as needed.
- Provide training and interpretation in the use of methods or procedures for observing and checking controls for geodetic and plane coordinates.
- Plan or direct the work of geodetic surveying staff, providing technical consultation as needed.
- Distribute compiled geodetic data to government agencies or the general public.
- Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in technology, equipment, or systems.
- Verify the mathematical correctness of newly collected survey data.
- Request additional survey data when field collection errors occur or engineering surveying specifications are not maintained.
- Prepare progress or technical reports.
- Maintain databases of geodetic and related information, including coordinate, descriptive, or quality assurance data.
- Compute, retrace, or adjust existing surveys of features such as highway alignments, property boundaries, utilities, control and other surveys to match the ground elevation-dependent grids, geodetic grids, or property boundaries and to ensure accuracy and continuity of data used in engineering, surveying, or construction projects.
Progression Routes
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