A Day in the Life of a Trainee Surveyor
My journey to becoming a surveyor began in college, where I pursued a further diploma in construction management. I was initially drawn to the field by my fascination, and I loved the idea of working outdoors while also being engaged.
A Typical Day
A day in the life of a trainee surveyor is a dynamic mix of fieldwork, office tasks, and hands-on learning. The day typically begins around 8:30 AM with preparation for site visits, which involves gathering equipment and reviewing project plans. By 9:00 AM, I am often on-site, where I measure electrical equipment, take photographs, and collect data. Attention to detail and accurate record-keeping are essential.
Midday includes a lunch break and some time to review notes or discuss findings. The afternoon is spent analysing the collected data, drafting maps or reports using specialised software like GIS, and participating in team meetings to discuss progress and receive feedback.
The workday concludes around 4 PM, with final tasks, equipment organisation, and data backup before heading home, the day usually wraps up with a review of the work with their supervisor. The role involves a balance of physical outdoor work and technical office tasks, providing trainees with valuable skills and experience under the guidance of experienced surveyors.
Skills of a Surveyor
A trainee Surveyor needs a range of essential skills to succeed in both technical tasks and professional development. Technical competence is crucial, in terms of tools, trainees must be proficient in using GIS, and other design and mapping tools for processing data and creating plans. Mastering these skills and tools provides the foundation needed for professional growth and progression towards becoming a fully qualified Surveyor. Attention to detail is vital for accurate data collection and ensuring that measurements and reports are error-free. Strong numeracy and analytical thinking help with the complex calculations and problem-solving that are often needed in the field.
Communication skills, both verbal and written, are key for working with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders, and for producing clear reports. Project management abilities, such as organising tasks, prioritising deadlines, and working in teams, are also important. Knowledge of property law, compliance, and health and safety regulations is essential for ensuring legal and safe site work. A strong sense of commercial awareness helps trainees understand market trends, property values, and client needs, while adaptability and a willingness to learn ensure they stay updated with evolving technology and industry standards. These skills together provide a strong foundation for progressing.
Surveyor Opportunities
As a surveyor, you have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of interesting and impactful projects across different sectors. These projects can vary from individual residential properties and small developments to working on behalf of housing associations and on large infrastructure projects or urban extension developments each offering unique challenges and rewards. Surveying on site offers a unique and engaging experience, filled with varied landscapes and unique challenges.
Additionally, being outdoors allows surveyors to connect with nature, encounter wildlife, and enjoy physical activity through walking or hiking. Working in historical areas can lead to unexpected discoveries, while seeing the tangible results of your efforts like new roads and buildings adds purpose to the job. Each site visit is also an opportunity for continuous learning, whether about local geology or construction techniques, and the need for creative problem-solving keeps the work dynamic and intellectually stimulating. Overall, site surveying combines adventure, technology, and teamwork, making it a rewarding profession.
As a trainee surveyor, my journey has been both challenging and rewarding, offering invaluable experiences that shape my professional growth. Each day on site brings new learning opportunities, whether I’m mastering the use of surveying equipment or navigating complex project requirements. I’ve developed a greater appreciation for the intricate balance between technical precision and creative problem-solving, especially when faced with unexpected site conditions.
Working alongside experienced colleagues has been particularly enlightening. Their insights and mentorship have not only enhanced my technical skills but also instilled in me the importance of effective communication and teamwork. I’ve learned that surveying is as much about collaboration as it is about measurements, and building strong relationships is essential for successful projects.
Additionally, being outdoors has fostered my connection to the environment and the communities we serve. Witnessing the tangible impact of our work whether it’s a newly constructed road or a revitalised public space fills me with a sense of purpose and pride. Overall, this experience has deepened my passion for the field, reinforcing my commitment to becoming a RICS Accredited Surveyor and contributing meaningfully to future developments.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post was accurate at the time of publishing. However, laws, regulations, and best practices may change over time. We do our best to keep our content up to date, but we cannot guarantee that all information remains current or correct. This blog post is for general information only and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. If you are unsure about anything, please contact us or seek professional guidance before making any decisions.
