Technical surveyor
You’ll gather precise measurements and data on-site, turning real-world details into actionable plans and help bring ambitious building projects to life.
Also known as: surveying technician
About the job
What it's like
Technical surveyors play a key role in gathering and analysing data about land, buildings or infrastructure. You'll use specialist equipment and software to provide accurate measurements and reports for a range of projects.
Youll focus on collecting detailed information that helps engineers, architects and planners make informed decisions. It’s rewarding because your work directly influences how projects are designed, built and maintained.
You might be out on site using laser scanners, drones or GPS or back in the office turning your findings into digital maps and technical drawings.
You could work in industries such as construction, civil engineering, utilities, transport and property. You could specialise in land surveying or focus on building surveys, quantity surveying or geospatial analysis.
There’s plenty of variety and you’ll often work as part of a team on projects that can range from new roads to historic building renovations.
Your tasks might include:
using GPS and laser equipment to measure land and structures
creating detailed site plans and technical drawings
inspecting buildings for structural issues or defects
analysing survey data with specialist software
preparing reports for engineers, architects or clients
checking construction work matches design specifications
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
survey land for renewable energy projects such as wind farms or solar parks
assess sites for environmental impact and sustainable development
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Related industries
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Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking responsibility
- negotiating
- time management
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- observation
- problem solving
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- supporting
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
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Geography
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Graphic Communication
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Practical Craft Skills
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Applications of Mathematics
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are different routes into this role:
A Modern Apprenticeship within a surveying or construction firm
A Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7), a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) or a degree (SCQF level 9/10) in construction, surveying or civil engineering. Courses should be accredited by Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). If the degree is not RICS-accredited you can do an accredited postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11).
You could enter directly a job with some subjects at Standard Grade, National 5 (SCQF level 5) and Highers (SCQF level 6) and be trained by your employer.
Entry requirements for a Modern Apprenticeship vary but employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF levels 4 to 6.
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
To enter a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of four Highers or a relevant HNC/HND.
To work on a construction site, you'll also need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
For some jobs, you may need to have a full UK driving licence to travel to sites.
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