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What Is a Surveyor Assistant and How to Become One


What Does a Surveyor Assistant Do?

As a surveyor assistant, you help conduct land surveys. As part of your duties, you may hold equipment as directed, call out readings, write numbers, mark distances, and use measuring devices as needed. Surveyor assistants usually work directly under field surveyors and travel to job sites as part of a larger team. While fulfilling your responsibilities, you may coordinate with other assistants, clear brush and trees, place stakes, and perform other tasks. Some surveyor assistants collect soil and water samples to test in labs. Being a surveyor assistant requires the ability to memorize and follow established guidelines and procedures.

How to Become a Surveyor Assistant

The duties of a surveyor assistant involve taking measurements and mapping an area in advance of an engineering project. In this job, you work under the supervision of a licensed land surveyor to take precise measurements using surveying equipment. The qualifications for beginning a career as a surveyor assistant include the ability to use surveying devices and an understanding of related techniques. You can enhance these skills through experience gained by completing a specialized surveying program offered by a technical or trade school. In addition to trade school, it’s recommended to take a few community college courses to study engineering, forestry, and geometry. Some employers prefer you to have a bachelor’s degree.