A land surveyor has a number of roles and responsibilities to carry out. From updating boundary lines to preparing sites for construction. The tasks that land surveyors need to carry out are endless. A comprehensive skill set that can be used to address mapping issues and attention to detail are just some of the skills this job demands. Here is a detailed list of all the responsibilities of a land surveyor.
1. Profession Description
A land surveyor is predominantly involved in the measuring of properties and land areas to establish boundaries. Determining boundaries is important because it helps locate sites for road and building construction. It also helps with the development of maps and prevents line disputes by settling properties. The land surveyor creates maps and land descriptions that are legally binding. Sometimes, surveyors are called into courtrooms to present their work and findings. Land surveyors need to have a license in order to work on private and commercial projects since the job is highly legal and precise in nature.
2. General Outline of Responsibilities
The below-mentioned responsibilities are ones you can expect a land surveyor to complete on a regular basis. The tasks are extensive and require high precision so they should never be taken lightly.
- Develop and inspect land surveying projects.
- Conduct legal and historical background checks on properties.
- Assist with field measurement and layout analysis.
- Carry basic calculations to analyze areas of land, elevation, and volumes of field survey notes.
- Understand and use maps for land surveys.
- Conduct in-house mapping projects.
- Produce high-quality survey documents for design and building projects.
- Implement mapping contracts and indefinite quantity surveying.
- Abide by government rules and regulations on land surveying and conduct property evaluations.
3. Land Survey
One of the most important responsibilities of a land surveyor is actually surveying the land. To start with, a land surveyor will first research an area to understand its history, and property details, and gather information about the property’s history. This is done through field work by physically taking a survey of the area to establish boundaries and determine a topography. Surveys are usually carried out in teams. Commonly used during a land survey is Global Positioning System equipment.
Satellite data is compiled to produce an accurate description of space. These systems also allow for high-efficiency work to be carried out. The Calgary RPR provides in-depth insight into the type of work a surveyor takes on. The findings of the survey are reported once it is completed. This is presented in the form of official reports, land and public records, legal documents, maps, etc. There are also different types of surveying such as property boundary survey, site planning survey, topographic survey, ALTA survey, construction survey, location and site planning survey, subdivision survey, etc.
4. Skills of a Land Surveyor
A land surveyor needs to be well-versed with their state’s surveying rules and regulations. They should also be skilled in the execution of certain mathematical concepts that will assist them with plotting and measuring land areas, without these skills, it would be difficult for anyone to do the job correctly. They should be proficient in basic and advanced computer skills such as using various types of technology for data assessment and plotting. They should also be able to use technological equipment on spot to make measurements. A good surveyor can work efficiently both independently and, in a team, and pays attention to detail. Accuracy is particularly important in this job, so someone who completes tasks with extreme focus is perfect for it.
5. Education Requirements
Educational requirements to become a surveyor vary from state to state. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, geography, surveying, engineering, or statistics is preferred. But sometimes, those who are high school graduates without any post-secondary education may be allowed to work with companies as an apprentice. A bachelor’s degree in surveying will well equip a person for their future responsibilities as a surveyor. They will obtain knowledge and skills through a combination of practical skills and theoretical learning of fundamental concepts.
Satellite and remote surveying and sensing, survey research, statistical analysis, land information, and real estate laws are concepts covered in this degree. Once higher education is complete, a surveyor must obtain a surveyor’s license in order to work. There are national-level exams that one must pass before becoming qualified for the position.
The responsibilities of a surveyor don’t end here. There is a multitude of other tasks that they need to complete on a daily basis. This particular profession requires a sharp set of skills and an affinity for legal jargon present in contracts. Land surveyors play a vital role in property development and their skills are always in demand. So, if you are thinking of becoming a land surveyor, then this article will surely provide you with enough information to help you with your decision.