Professional Land Surveyor

Roles and responsibilities

1. Conducting Land Surveys

• Boundary Surveys: One of the primary tasks of a land surveyor is to determine property boundaries, which often involves using historical records, maps, deeds, and physical markers to accurately define the perimeter of a property.
• Topographic Surveys: Surveyors map out the physical features of a piece of land, including elevations, contours, trees, rivers, and existing structures. This information is critical for architects and engineers when designing new buildings, roads, or utilities.
• Construction Surveys: Land surveyors ensure that construction projects are built in the correct location and to the correct specifications by providing precise measurements and markers for foundations, building corners, and other critical elements of a structure.
• Geodetic Surveys: These surveys are used to measure large areas of land and account for the curvature of the Earth. Geodetic surveyors use highly accurate equipment to measure very long distances and create global positioning systems (GPS)-based surveys.

2. Mapping and Documentation

• Creating Detailed Maps: Surveyors generate maps and drawings based on the data they collect during their fieldwork. These maps might include topographic, boundary, utility, and construction plans.
• Survey Reports: Surveyors write detailed reports that summarize their findings, including boundary lines, elevations, measurements, and any discrepancies with existing records. These reports are often used in legal proceedings or to support development applications.
• GIS Data Collection: Many surveyors also collect data for Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which is used for mapping and spatial analysis. This can include creating digital terrain models, environmental monitoring maps, or other geospatial data needed for urban planning.

3. Equipment Use and Technology

• Surveying Instruments: Land surveyors use various instruments to measure land features accurately. This includes:
  • Total Stations: Used for measuring angles and distances, these instruments combine an electronic theodolite with an electronic distance measuring device (EDM).
  • GPS/GNSS Systems: High-precision GPS systems are used for large-scale land surveying and geodetic measurements. These systems are able to give real-time positioning data with centimeter-level accuracy.
  • Laser Scanners: Some land surveyors use laser scanners (LiDAR) for detailed and accurate 3D mapping of topography and built environments.
  • Drones: Drones equipped with cameras and GPS can be used for aerial surveying, providing an efficient way to map large or inaccessible areas.
• Surveying Software: Surveyors use specialized software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MicroStation, ArcGIS, and Trimble Business Center for analyzing, processing, and presenting data collected in the field.

4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

• Property Disputes and Boundary Issues: Land surveyors are often called upon to resolve boundary disputes between property owners. They work with legal teams to provide expert testimony in court and support the resolution of land ownership disputes.
• Land Development Approvals: Surveyors play a role in ensuring that new developments comply with zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations. They often assist in preparing land subdivision and land-use applications.
• Public Infrastructure Projects: Surveyors ensure that public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and utilities, is designed and built according to legal standards, including compliance with environmental protection guidelines.

Desired candidate profile

• Performs a variety of tasks in support of survey or construction activities.
• Duties may differ depending on the specialty area.
• Activities may include setting up and operating equipment; inspecting equipment; inspection of engineering installations for compliance with specifications; maintaining project documentation; assisting with the building, repair, or maintenance of a structure or roadway.
• Relies on basic understanding of procedures and company policies to plan and accomplish basic goals.
• Performs a variety of routine tasks and works under close supervision.
• Entry-level position; may not require previous experience.
• Aware of Civil Infrastructure works including roads, wet utilities and drry utilities in UAE.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualification

• Bachelor Degree/Diploma in relevant Engineering field (i.e. Civil , Geodetic or related field.)

Experience

• The ideal candidate to be Civil Engineering graduate with minimum 7+ years’ experience in land surveying field and setting out of works of similar nature or Diploma holder with minimum 10+ years’ experience in the land surveying field in similar works.