What are the different types of surveying jobs and their career paths?

Surveying is a diverse profession critical to construction, engineering, and land development, offering numerous specialized career paths with competitive salaries. From managing project finances as a quantity surveyor to determining property boundaries as a land surveyor, these roles are essential for shaping our built environment. This guide explores 11 key surveying roles, their average national salaries, and the qualifications needed to succeed, providing a clear roadmap for anyone considering this field.

What is a quantity surveyor and what do they do?

A quantity surveyor acts as the financial manager for construction projects, focusing on costing, valuation, and estimation. Their primary duties involve analyzing commercial risks, allocating work to subcontractors, conducting feasibility studies, and managing payments. With a national average salary of £47,218 per year, this is one of the higher-paying specializations. Based on industry standards, organizations typically require a degree in quantity surveying or commercial management, with accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) being highly valued. RICS accreditation is a globally recognized standard that ensures professional competence and ethical practice.

What are the technical roles in surveying, like survey engineers and technicians?

Technical surveying roles require a strong grasp of engineering principles and geospatial technology. A survey engineer (£34,073 per year) uses engineering knowledge and tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS)—digital systems for capturing and analyzing spatial data—to assess infrastructure. They typically hold a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or geology. In support, a survey technician (£24,835 per year) collects field data, manages equipment, and creates maps, often with post-secondary training in specific survey tools. These roles are foundational for accurate data collection on any project site.

What does a land surveyor and general surveyor do?

Land surveyors (£30,208 per year) are experts in measuring and evaluating land to determine precise property boundaries. They prepare legal descriptions, maps, and reports by researching land titles and historical records. A general surveyor (£40,014 per year) has a broader role, making precise measurements for mapping and construction, often requiring a degree in geomatics or geospatial services. Both paths emphasize accuracy and are governed by legal standards, making RICS membership a significant advantage for career progression.

What are the management and specialist surveying careers?

For those inclined towards leadership, a survey manager (£45,173 per year) oversees construction crews, prepares contracts, and directs projects. Meanwhile, specialist roles include property management surveyors (£39,502 per year), who enhance real estate value through appraisals and lease management, and asset surveyors (£40,014 per year), who focus on improving asset cash flow. These positions often require a relevant degree and RICS accreditation, blending technical skill with strategic business acumen. Other vital roles include estimators (£37,457 per year), who calculate project costs, and site engineers (£38,306 per year), who provide on-site technical oversight.

To build a successful career in surveying, focus on obtaining RICS-accredited qualifications, gain hands-on experience with modern geospatial technologies, and consider specializing in high-demand areas like quantity surveying or property management. The field offers stable prospects across government, construction, and engineering sectors, with salaries reflecting the level of expertise and responsibility.