Is a Career In Surveying Right For You?

A career in land surveying can be both rewarding and challenging – it’s an occupation that requires a range of skills, from technical expertise to problem-solving. But is it right for you?

Land surveying is more than just mapping and measuring land boundaries; it involves a broad range of activities involving the transfer of physical real-world data into computerised formats, giving the data meaning, providing legal advice, creating maps and diagrams, carrying out technical calculations, and ensuring accuracy in all aspects of your work.

Surveying is also one of the few professions in the world that allow you to enjoy the benefits of working both in an office environment and outdoors in the field; often in new and interesting places. As the profession advances with the introduction of new technology (LiDAR, drones, photogrammetry, 3D scanning, etc) the role of the surveyor is also evolving and becoming even more exciting. 

As the cornerstone of the entire civil and engineering construction industries, surveyors are in very high demand. Due to the tertiary qualifications and ongoing professional development requirements, new surveying graduates are able to earn salaries close to six-figures straight out of university. A registered surveyor with a few years experience and a consulting endorsement can command salaries around $150k p/a. All of which is easily achievable under the age of 30.

If you're considering becoming a surveyor, these are some of the key qualities you will need to possess or be able to develop:

1. Technical Ability. Surveying requires a high level of precision and accuracy when collecting data or interpreting measurements. You'll need to understand mathematical concepts such as trigonometry, geometry and cartography in order to accurately and efficiently carry out various tasks such as plotting boundaries on plans or setting up topographical surveys.
   
   
2. Attention To Detail. Being able to pay attention to small details is essential when making decisions related to the accuracy of survey results or drawings. You must be methodical and have strong observational skills in order to identify any potential problems or errors before they become an issue.
   
   
3. Problem Solving Skills. As a surveyor, you will often come across complex problems which require innovative solutions; this means having the ability to assess potential answers quickly and being able to think on your feet when necessary. It's also important that you are comfortable with working through uncertainties while remaining calm under pressure; sometimes there is no perfect answer, only the best answer which might come with compromises. Dealing with difficult situations is part and parcel of working within the surveying profession!
   
   
4. Clear Communication. In order for the work you do to be successful, you'll need excellent communication skills; this includes knowing how to effectively explain technical terms or procedures in easy-to-understand language for clients or colleagues who may not have the same knowledge as yourself. Being able to build professional relationships with other parties involved in any project is also paramount for success within this field.

A career in land surveying can provide many opportunities for those interested in exploring new environments as well as developing their technical abilities. However, it's important that you carefully consider whether these are qualities which best suit your own personal traits. If so, then there's no doubt that pursuing a career in land surveying will be an incredibly rewarding experience both professionally and personally!

If you believe that a career in surveying is right for you and you’re looking for the next steps to break into the profession, we recommend the following:

1. Apply for an entry level position such as a Survey Assistant or Junior Draftsperson with a reputable surveying firm. This will give you a taste for the work and a support network to help you learn.
   
   At Hillocc, we have an excellent team of experienced surveying professionals to do just that. You can view Hillocc’s entry-level positions on our careers page.
   
   
2. Apply to undertake an undergraduate Surveying degree at your local university. To help you with your search, we’ve compiled a list of Australian Universities offering Surveying degrees.

If you’ve still got any unanswered questions about pursuing a career in surveying, please feel free to call or email us via our contact page.

We can put you in contact with one of our younger team members who are just a few years ahead of where you are now, so you can see what a career in surveying is really like.

Either way, we’d love the opportunity to help you make the right decision for your future.