What does a Survey Technician do?

Survey Technicians provide front-line data collection and initial analysis of topographic and other land-related information for businesses. They work on projects ranging from construction to conservation and are generally instrumental in gathering the data required for public works products, such as roads. Survey Technicians help support planning teams as they make early decisions regarding projects.

Survey Technician skills and qualifications

You may select a Survey Technician who has strong math skills, is detail-oriented and works well in a team environment. Other skills you might consider listing on your job description for a Survey Technician include:

• Proficiency with CAD software and other programs your teams use to render data into visual formats

• Experience using GPS mapping and topography tools and software

• Knowledge of traditional survey tools, including tripods, cameras and compasses

• Spatial awareness that can translate into a natural understanding of the landscape

• Strong organizational and analytical skills

• Knowledge of legal regulations related to accessing and surveying land

Survey Technician experience requirements

Survey Technicians generally don’t need to be licensed or have years of experience if they work under a Licensed Surveyor who can certify documents related to the survey. Depending on your business needs, you might hire a Survey Technician with little experience if their academic background demonstrates the right knowledge. However, if you’re filling a Lead Survey Technician role or you don’t provide much on-the-job training, you may look for a Survey Technician with several years of experience.

Survey Technician education and training requirements

Survey Technician jobs don’t necessarily require formal education, but candidates may need strong math skills. You might prefer a candidate with an associate’s degree in geomatics, surveying, math or another field with transferable skills, such as CAD design or engineering. If you’re hiring a candidate for a higher-level position, you might consider requiring a relevant bachelor’s degree or the equivalent time in the field plus certifications, such as the Certified Survey Technician (CST) credential from the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).

Job description samples for similar positions

If the Survey Technician job description above isn’t what you’re looking for, consider these alternative job titles:

• Surveyor

• Landscape Architect

• Construction Project Manager

• Strategic Planner

Survey Technician job description FAQs

Who does a Survey Technician report to?

Depending on how you set up your teams, a Survey Technician might report to a Tech Supervisor, a Field Supervisor or the Lead Surveyor. Smaller businesses might only have a few survey-related employees who report to a Manager or whoever directs research, operations or planning.

What makes for a good Survey Technician candidate?

In addition to knowledge and experience with survey tools, strong Survey Technician candidates tend to have a mix of technical and interpersonal skills. They may need to be able to take apart and repair tools in the field while conveying details about surveys or timelines to business partners or clients.

What types of questions should you ask Survey Technician candidates in interviews?

To determine whether someone meets the requirements in your job description, consider asking questions that create hypothetical situations and require the candidate to come up with answers to common survey challenges. You can also ask candidates to describe how they have used survey tools and technologies to gather data in a difficult situation.