How to Become a Professional Land Surveyor
A land surveyor takes topographical measurements and determines exactly where boundary lines should fall. By utilizing technology such as the Global Positioning System (GPS), surveyors make precise distance and directional measurements between two points. This data is recorded and compiled to create maps and reports. Surveyors must possess good physical conditioning and strong attention to detail, as even the slightest miscalculation may have far-reaching ramifications. Surveyors must also be able to conceptualize objects, distances, sizes and other abstract concepts.
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Instructions
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Graduate from high school having taken classes in algebra, computer science, drafting and geography. It helps to take any survey courses that are available. Maintain good physical conditioning, as you will likely walk long distances and climb hills, all while lugging heavy instruments.
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Earn a bachelor of science degree in surveying or engineering from an accredited college or university. The school must be recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Take electives in calculus, physics and statistics. Alternatively, there are surveying programs offered at community colleges, technical institutes and vocational schools.
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Gain practical experience through a summer job with a survey crew, internship or surveying class. Without formalized training, prospective surveyors will likely begin as apprentices, technicians or assistants.
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Become certified by passing two licensing exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. Successful completion of the first exam, Fundamentals of Surveying, results in the title of surveying intern. Surveyors must then gain four years of supervised work experience before attempting the second exam, Principles and Practice of Surveying. Passing this exam will likely satisfy your state's requirement for licensure. Visit the NCEES website for a list of state licensing boards to determine if your state has any additional education or experience requirements.
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Consider enrolling in a volunteer certification program by the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). Successful completion of this program could lead to advancement in the field of surveying. It will also expand your knowledge and training in the fields of geodetic and geophysical surveying. This certification calls for experience as well as successful passage of the NSPS Certified Survey Technician (CST) exam, which is offered every two years.
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References
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- Photo Credit surveying team image by DXfoto.com from Fotolia.com
