Geospatial Survey Technician
Careers Explorer:
Map the shape of the land by collecting data for a wide range of uses including the creation of maps and sat navs.
Overview
As a geospatial survey technician, you’ll collect data relating to geographic positions on the earth’s surface for use in the creation of maps, satellite navigation systems, global positioning systems and a range of other purposes.
Using a range of technologies and electronic data capture tools and processes to capture geospatial information, you may yourself involved in the construction of infrastructure including roads, buildings, bridges, offshore construction such as wind turbines and oil rigs and a wide range of other purposes.
You may find yourself in either the public or private sector, for an employer such as a geophysical consultant, civil engineering contractor or the military.
Top 5 Tasks
- Work with scientists, technologists and land-related professionals
- Capture geospatial information
- Take, record and document appropriate geospatial measurements
- Perform calculations and use geospatial data
- Use cartography knowledge.
Salary
Salary is typically around £21,000 to start off with and will rise much higher with experience to up to £36,000.
Salaries typically depend on location, employer and level of responsibility.
Am I Suited?
- Technically minded
- Working with computers
- Like geography and science
- Likes responsibility
- Attention to detail.
The first Navstar satellite was launched in 1978. Out of the ten satellites launched, only nine made it to the orbit. The first fully developed GPS satellite was launched in 1989.
Qualifications
Typically five GCSEs, including maths and English or a Level 2 apprenticeship in a relevant discipline is needed but the final decision is that of each employer.
You will need to provide the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours to apply to become an Associate member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors or an Associate Member of the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors.
