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Where do I start?

There are a number of ways to get into surveying.
Why not find out how you can begin your exciting career today!

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Open up a world of opportunity

There are a number of routes you can take to become a Surveyor.
Pick the one that fits you, and discover how to get started!

I have...

I have left school...

Great, so you want a career in Surveying!

You will ideally have GCSEs in Maths, English and Geography (not essential).  You will probably be employed as a trainee surveyor and your employer will commence your basic survey training.

Become a Trainee

I have A Levels...

...either

Start as a trainee surveyor

You will ideally have A Levels in Maths, a science based subject and/or Geography (although not essential). You will probably be employed as a trainee surveyor and your employer will commence your basic survey training.

Become a Trainee

...or

Study a Geospatial Related Science

The number of relevant University courses offering survey related degrees are limited.  However the following Universities run approved geospatial courses.

Additionally some Universities offer surveying modules as part of another degree course.

With your degree

I have a degree...

Join the Graduate Development programme

Some major employers have their own in-house development programme.  However, most survey companies will not and would expect a graduate to start as an assistant surveyor.

Become an Assistant

I have experience...

...either

Get a BSc or MSc in Geospatial related Science

Find out more about a degree

...or

Go straight into ‘in house’ work experience

If you are looking for a career change, working in a survey company may offer this.  There are many roles within a survey company, some of which are office based.  So if you have IT skills you may find a job in a survey office will suit you.

Become an Assistant

It's time to begin your training

Trainee Surveyor

The Trainee Land Surveyor will generally support the survey team which would consist of one or a number of surveyors / survey technicians in the undertaking of surveying tasks both in the field and office environments.  Flexibility and the willingness to travel are essential requirements of this role as is the ability to learn a multitude of skills.

The Trainee Surveyor will ideally have grade C or above in Maths and English GCSE. Knowledge of basic surveying principles and clean driving licence would also be an asset. It is expected that the Trainee Surveyor will undertake ‘on the job training’ in relation to all areas of site operations and this may include attending the TSA Surveying Course run at Worcester.

The TSA Surveying Course has been created specifically for the development of new entrants into the Geomatics Industry, or those with experience but no formal training. View short courses

What's Next?

Now you're ready to become an Assistant

Assistant Surveyor

The Assistant Land Surveyor will generally support the survey team which would consist of one or a number of surveyors / survey technicians in the undertaking of surveying tasks both in the field and office environments.  Flexibility and the willingness to travel are essential requirements of this role as is the ability to learn a multitude of skills.

The Assistant Surveyor will ideally have two years relevant surveying experience. Knowledge of basic surveying principles and a clean driving licence would also be an asset. It is expected that the Assistant Surveyor will undertake ‘on the job training’ in relation to all areas of site operations.

What's Next?

Well done, you're now a surveyor

Surveyor

The Surveyor will generally lead a team or teams in both the field and office operations. Ideally, he/she will have a minimum of four years relevant surveying experience. On occasions, liaising with the client may be required. The Surveyor must be able to work on his/her own initiative and liaise with clients when necessary. A clean driving licence is usually required and the willingness to travel extensively is essential.

A professional qualification or the intention to acquire one would be a distinct advantage. Many companies will assist in the pursuance of a qualification.

Then on to...

You've made it, you're a Senior Surveyor

Senior Surveyor

The Senior Surveyor will generally have a minimum of six years relevant survey experience and be capable of running a team or teams. A thorough knowledge and understanding of major survey software is a pre-requisite for this role. Extensive travel will be required as will job estimating and client liaison.

A professional qualification or the intention to acquire one would be a distinct advantage. Many companies will assist in the pursuance of a qualification whilst for others the qualification is essential for the role.

And finally...

Become a Member of RICS, CICES.

A professional qualification opens up a world of opportunities both at home and abroad. The two most appropriate Institutions to join for a land surveyor in the UK is either the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES). There is a wide range of membership categories to suit almost any age and experience.

Now get started