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Trainee Surveyor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Effectively supervises surveying technician and surveying trainee personnel * Coordinates surveying activities with the assigned engineer to meet the construction requirements * Communicates and ...

Effectively supervises surveying technician and surveying trainee personnel * Coordinates surveying activities with the assigned engineer to meet the construction requirements * Communicates and ...

Effectively supervises surveying technician and surveying trainee personnel * Coordinates surveying activities with the assigned engineer to meet the construction requirements * Communicates and ...

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Trainee Surveyor information

Is AI going to replace surveyors?

AI is unlikely to fully replace trainee surveyors, as the role requires on-site judgment, interpretation of complex environments, and professional certification. AI tools can assist with data analysis and mapping, but human expertise remains essential for accurate surveying and decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Surveyor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Surveyor, you typically need a relevant degree or equivalent qualification in surveying, construction, or a related field, along with strong analytical and numerical skills. Familiarity with surveying tools, CAD software, and geographic information systems (GIS) is valuable, as is working toward professional accreditation such as RICS. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with clients and team members. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate data collection, efficient project delivery, and a solid foundation for career progression in the surveying industry.

What are trainee surveyors?

Trainee surveyors are entry-level professionals who are learning the skills and gaining the experience required to become qualified surveyors. They typically assist with land, property, or construction surveys under the supervision of experienced surveyors while studying for relevant qualifications. Their duties often include data collection, site visits, report preparation, and supporting senior surveyors in various tasks. Over time, trainee surveyors gain hands-on experience and may work toward professional accreditation. This role is ideal for those interested in a career in surveying, offering a pathway to becoming a chartered surveyor.

How to become a trainee surveyor?

To become a trainee surveyor, candidates typically need a relevant qualification such as a degree or diploma in surveying, civil engineering, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships and developing skills in measurement, mapping, and report writing are also important steps. Some employers may require professional accreditation or membership in surveying bodies as part of career progression.

What is the difference between Trainee Surveyor vs Junior Surveyor?

AspectTrainee SurveyorJunior Surveyor
QualificationsTypically studying or recent graduate, may hold relevant certificationsOften has completed some training or certification, with some practical experience
Work EnvironmentAssists senior surveyors on-site or office-based tasksPerforms survey tasks under supervision, involved in site inspections
Industry UsageEntry-level role in construction, civil engineering, or property sectorsEarly career position, progressing towards full surveyor responsibilities

The main difference is that a Trainee Surveyor is usually in the early stages of their career, often still studying or gaining initial certifications, while a Junior Surveyor has some practical experience and performs more defined survey tasks under supervision. Both roles serve as stepping stones toward becoming a fully qualified surveyor.

How much does a trainee surveyor make?

A trainee surveyor typically earns between $20,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of experience. As they gain skills and certifications, their salary can increase significantly. Entry-level positions often include on-the-job training and mentorship to develop surveying skills using tools like total stations and GPS equipment.

What does a trainee surveyor do?

A trainee surveyor assists experienced surveyors in measuring and mapping land, buildings, and construction sites. They learn to use tools like total stations and GPS devices, and often support tasks such as site inspections, data collection, and report preparation under supervision.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Surveyors during their initial months, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee Surveyors often face challenges such as adapting to technical surveying equipment, understanding complex regulations, and handling the physical demands of site visits. Working closely with experienced surveyors, seeking regular feedback, and proactively asking questions can help overcome these hurdles. Additionally, dedicating time to study industry standards and participating in team discussions will build both confidence and competence in the role.
More about Trainee Surveyor jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Surveyor jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Surveyor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surveyor jobs? The most popular types of Surveyor jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Surveyor jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Surveyor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Surveyor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Land Surveyor Trainee/Assistant Land Surveyor (NYHELPS)

Land Surveyor Trainee/Assistant Land Surveyor (NYHELPS)

New York State

Albany, NY

$66K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description The duties of this position will include but are not limited to the following: The Real Property Bureau within DESP (Division of Environmental Stewardship & Planning) develops and implements policy for the acquisition of lands and properties and negotiates the actual purchase/exchange by first establishing a property's market value. Under the direction and supervision of a Licensed Land Surveyor, the incumbent will: Assist in maintenance of department survey and land records. Search internal and public records for survey and title information.

Supervise and train field crews in the operation of modern terrestrial, geodetic surveying, geographic positioning system instruments, proper field survey procedures, and work zone safety. Plan and schedule work assignments for projects. Maintain and perform basic maintenance on survey equipment.

Conduct reconnaissance and field surveys of State Park property lines. Prepare deed plots and review consultant derived boundary maps for accuracy. Process, balance, and transform data derived from Optical and GPS observations.

Assist in determination of park boundaries through survey field measurements and research. Prepare survey maps for acquiring and managing state interest in real property in a computer aided drafting system. Perform field inspections of land and prepare reports of physical inspections.

Perform property boundary surveys utilizing applicable survey principles and practices to determine the State's title boundaries. Minimum Qualifications NY HELPS or 55-b/c Qualifications: This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).* To be considered for appointment through NY HELPS, or 55-b/c, candidates must meet the open-competitive minimum qualifications for this position. The qualifications are: Land Surveyor Trainee, NS (Equated to a SG-18): A bachelor's degree program in surveying or surveying technology from an Engineering Accreditation Commission, Engineering Technology Accreditation, or Commission Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology accredited; or Eligibility to sit for the Fundamentals of Surveying examination through the National Council for Examiners of Engineering and Surveying via letter issued by the New York State Board for Engineering and Land Surveying (proof of eligibility required)

Assistant Land Surveyor SG-20: Proof of passing the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Surveying Examination (FS) or successful completion of 52 weeks of service as a Land Surveyor Trainee and successful completion of the FS examination**. ** Individuals appointed to the two-year Land Surveyor traineeship are required to complete a minimum of one year of successful performance as a Land Surveyor Trainee and pass the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam in order to advance to Assistant Land Surveyor. If you obtain your FS by the end of the first year you will advance to the title of Assistant Land Surveyor SG-20.

Failure to obtain the FS during the two-year traineeship will result in termination from the position. **Your degree must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by a regional, national, or specialized agency recognized as an accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education/U.S

Secretary of Education (https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home). If your degree was awarded by an educational institution outside the United States or its territories, you must provide independent verification of equivalency. This information can be found athttp://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/degrees.cfm

Candidates are responsible for the evaluation fee. If you are a veteran or an individual with a disability and would like to apply for the Department of Civil Service's 55-b/c Program, please visit https://www.cs.ny.gov/rp55/ for more information. Subsequent 55-b/c Qualifications: A subsequent 55-b/c appointment may be considered if you have at least one year of permanent or contingent-permanent qualifying service and have a current Civil Service 55-b/c letter of eligibility

Provisional Qualifications: In the absence of an eligible list(s) with three or more candidates willing to accept a position, a temporary provisional appointment may be considered. For provisional appointment, candidates must be meet the following minimum qualifications: Land Surveyor Trainee, NS (Equated to a SG-18): A bachelor's degree program in surveying or surveying technology from an Engineering Accreditation Commission, Engineering Technology Accreditation, or Commission Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology accredited; or Eligibility to sit for the Fundamentals of Surveying examination through the National Council for Examiners of Engineering and Surveying via letter issued by the New York State Board for Engineering and Land Surveying (proof of eligibility required). Assistant Land Surveyor, SG-20: Proof of passing the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Surveying Examination (FS) or successful completion of 52 weeks of service as a Land Surveyor Trainee and successful completion of the FS examination**.

** Individuals appointed to the two-year Land Surveyor traineeship are required to complete a minimum of one year of successful performance as a Land Surveyor Trainee and pass the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam in order to advance to Assistant Land Surveyor. If you obtain your FS by the end of the first year you will advance to the title of Assistant Land Surveyor SG 20. Failure to obtain the FS during the two-year traineeship will result in termination from the position.

**Your degree must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by a regional, national, or specialized agency recognized as an accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education/U.S. Secretary of Education (https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home)

If your degree was awarded by an educational institution outside the United States or its territories, you must provide independent verification of equivalency. This information can be found athttp://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/degrees.cfm. Candidates are responsible for the evaluation fee

The appointed candidate would have to take, pass and be reachable on the next holding of the examination to be appointed permanently. 70.1 Transfer Qualifications for Land Surveyor Trainee, NS title: At least one year of permanent or contingent-permanent qualifying service as a Land Surveyor Technician 2, SG-16. Only the title listed are eligible for 70.1 transfer

Note: The transfer cannot be a second consecutive transfer resulting in an advancement of more than two salary grades. For all transfers noted, a comprehensive list of titles approved for transfer is available through Civil Service GOT-IT at https://careermobilityoffice.cs.ny.gov/cmo/gotit/. Additional Comments OPERATING NEEDS: Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license that allows the candidate to legally operate a motor vehicle in New York State as a term and condition of employment

Must be able to work in remote areas, negotiate difficult terrain, and work in adverse weather conditions. Travel may be required. Overtime may be required.

Overnight travel may be required. Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview. Additional Comments: Approved Salary Ranges: Land Surveyor Trainee Equated to SG-18 - $66,951/yr - $85,138/yr Assistant Land Surveyor, SG-20 - $74,193/yr - $94,121/yr Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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