How Do I Become a Land Surveyor?

A land surveyor is a professional who measures distances across land using landmarks or precise measurements. He or she often tries to find property boundaries in preparation for construction projects or to settle border disputes. In order to become a land surveyor, you will first need to graduate from high school or earn an equivalent qualification. You will need to develop adequate math and communications skills as well, as these will be important skills that pertain directly to the job. You will then need to earn a college degree in order to become a land surveyor.

In most cases, you will need to earn a bachelor's degree in surveying, civil engineering, or a related field in order to become a land surveyor. A bachelor's degree program generally takes four years to complete, though many students may take five years or more, especially if attending school part-time. It is a wise decision to seek out internships during the junior or senior year of college; try to find internships with surveying companies, as such internships will help you develop contacts in the field and learn important skills you will need once you become a land surveyor. This internship can also count as valid work experience, which many companies require as part of the hiring process.

Once you finish your degree, you will need to pass various certification exams in order to become a land surveyor. The Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) certification is the first test you will need to take and pass in the United States and in certain other countries; other similar certification tests may exist in other regions of the world. This will qualify you to become a surveying intern or apprentice. You will need to complete this internship or apprenticeship before you can take the next set of exams. Your internship or apprenticeship is a paid position, and it can last up to four years before you are eligible to move on and take the next exams that will certify you to become a land surveyor with appropriate certifications.

You may also have to complete additional certifications with state and local governments. Be sure to do some research to find out if such certifications exist; if they do, find out what you need to do to take the exams and pass them. Once you become a land surveyor, it is likely that you will also have to renew certifications periodically in order to stay current and legal in your region. Research how often you need to renew certifications as well as what certifications will require renewal.