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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a GIS Surveyor

💰 $55,000 - $95,000

GeospatialSurveyingEngineeringData AnalysisGISLand Development

🎯 Role Definition

A GIS Surveyor is a specialized professional who bridges the gap between traditional land surveying and modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This role is pivotal in capturing precise spatial data from the physical world and transforming it into intelligent, actionable information within a digital environment. The GIS Surveyor is responsible for the entire data lifecycle, from planning and executing field surveys using advanced technology like GPS, drones, and laser scanners, to processing, analyzing, and visualizing the data to create detailed maps, models, and reports. They are the go-to experts for ensuring geospatial data accuracy, integrity, and utility, supporting critical decisions for engineers, planners, project managers, and clients.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Survey Technician / Field Technician
  • GIS Technician / Analyst
  • Recent Graduate (Geomatics, Surveying, Geography)

Advancement To:

  • Senior GIS Surveyor / Lead Surveyor
  • GIS Manager / Geospatial Manager
  • Survey Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • GIS Analyst / Specialist
  • Cartographer
  • Remote Sensing Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Plan, coordinate, and execute a wide range of field surveys, including topographic, boundary, construction stakeout, and as-built surveys, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment.
  • Operate and maintain advanced surveying instruments such as robotic total stations, RTK/GNSS GPS receivers, and terrestrial 3D laser scanners to ensure precise data collection.
  • Conduct pre-flight planning and execute aerial mapping missions using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs/drones) for photogrammetric data acquisition.
  • Process raw field survey data, including point clouds and drone imagery, performing necessary calculations, adjustments, and quality control checks.
  • Integrate diverse geospatial datasets, including survey data, LiDAR, aerial imagery, and existing vector data, into a unified enterprise geodatabase.
  • Develop and maintain complex and accurate GIS databases, ensuring data integrity, metadata documentation, and adherence to established data standards.
  • Perform sophisticated spatial analysis, such as network analysis, suitability modeling, and change detection, to derive insights and support project objectives.
  • Design and produce high-quality cartographic products, including detailed survey plats, topographic maps, thematic maps, and 3D visualizations for client deliverables and public presentations.
  • Manage coordinate systems and projections, performing transformations and ensuring geometric accuracy across all project data.
  • Translate engineering plans and CAD designs into field-ready data for construction layout and staking activities.
  • Perform thorough quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) on all field and office-generated data to verify it meets project specifications and industry accuracy standards.
  • Prepare comprehensive survey reports, legal descriptions for properties, and other technical documentation required for project records and regulatory submissions.
  • Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including civil engineers, urban planners, environmental scientists, and project managers, to provide critical geospatial support.
  • Research and interpret historical survey records, deeds, and land title documents to establish boundary lines and property rights.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to survey equipment, GIS software, and data discrepancies.
  • Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in the surveying and geospatial industries, recommending new tools and workflows to enhance efficiency and capability.
  • Manage and organize large volumes of project data using structured file systems and database management best practices.
  • Create and edit geospatial data, including digitizing features, attributing data, and performing geodatabase topology corrections.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior surveyors and technicians on data collection techniques and software usage.
  • Ensure all survey activities comply with company safety protocols, industry regulations, and professional standards of practice.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis for various internal departments.
  • Contribute to the organization's geospatial data strategy and long-term technology roadmap.
  • Collaborate with IT and business units to translate complex data needs into tangible engineering and workflow requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and other agile ceremonies within the project team.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Survey Equipment Proficiency: Mastery of Trimble or Leica total stations, GNSS/GPS receivers, and digital levels.
  • GIS Software Expertise: Advanced proficiency in the Esri ArcGIS suite (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Enterprise) and strong competency in QGIS.
  • CAD Software: Strong skills in AutoCAD Civil 3D for processing survey data, creating surfaces, and drafting.
  • Remote Sensing & Photogrammetry: Experience with drone data processing software (e.g., Pix4D, Agisoft Metashape) and managing point cloud data (e.g., Trimble RealWorks, CloudCompare).
  • Database Management: Competency in managing Esri geodatabases and a working knowledge of SQL for data querying and manipulation.
  • Geodetic Principles: Deep understanding of map projections, coordinate systems, datums, and geodetic calculations.
  • Data Conversion: Skill in converting and transforming data between various formats (e.g., DWG, DGN, SHP, KML).
  • 3D Visualization: Ability to create 3D models, surfaces, and visualizations from survey and GIS data.
  • Legal & Boundary Knowledge: Familiarity with reading and interpreting deeds, plats, and legal descriptions for boundary analysis.
  • GPS Post-Processing: Experience with post-processing static GPS data using software like Trimble Business Center (TBC).

Soft Skills

  • Meticulous Attention to Detail: An unwavering commitment to accuracy and precision in both field measurements and data analysis.
  • Problem-Solving: The ability to logically and creatively solve complex technical and logistical challenges.
  • Effective Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with team members and explaining technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: A cooperative spirit and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary project team.
  • Time Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to work in varying outdoor conditions and adapt to new technologies and changing project requirements.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

An Associate's degree in a relevant field combined with significant professional experience.

Preferred Education:

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree from an accredited university.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Geomatics / Geomatics Engineering
  • Surveying and Mapping
  • Geography with a GIS concentration
  • Civil Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-7 years of progressive experience that includes a combination of field surveying, data processing, and GIS analysis.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a professional services environment (e.g., engineering, surveying, or environmental consulting).
  • Professional licensure as a Land Surveyor in Training (LSIT) or Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) is highly desirable.
  • Certification as a GIS Professional (GISP) is a significant asset.
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