Surveying technician
Surveying technicians carry out tasks to support chartered surveyors, architects and engineers.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Depending on the field of surveying you work in, you could:
- estimate and draw up project costs
- measure and record data on land, buildings or construction projects
- create plans using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software
- assist with environmental impact assessments
- survey buildings or map land use
- value land, property and machinery
- organise the sale of assets by auction
- visit sites to report on the progress of projects
Working environment
You could work in an office, visit sites or on a construction site.
Your working environment may be at height and outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression
You could become self-employed and work as a freelance surveying technician.
With experience and further training you could become a professional surveyor.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- maths knowledge
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of geography
- analytical thinking skills
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- knowledge of building and construction
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:
- construction
- building surveying
- civil engineering
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
You can take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for the job. This may help you when you apply for a trainee position.
Relevant courses include:
- Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment
- Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Surveying
- Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering for Technicians
- T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
You could do a surveying technician advanced apprenticeship.
After you've completed an apprenticeship, you can become an associate member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) as a student or apprentice member. Once you're qualified, you can be an associate member.
Further information
You can find out more about surveying careers and training from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.