An assistant surveyor’s job is to measure the dimensions of a piece of land. An assistant land surveyor determines angles and distances using instruments such as theodolites and total stations, taking into account both natural and man-made obstacles and boundaries. These figures are then manually written down or entered into a computer, and the surveyor can draw a sketch based on the calculations. An assistant surveyor’s duties are almost always performed outside, and someone on the job must be prepared to work in all types of weather.
Survey assistants must also clear the way to ensure that the instrument’s line of sight to the target is not obstructed. They must also know how to adjust instruments for different applications and measurements. Because surveying relies on engineering, geometry, and trigonometry skills, some mathematical ability is required. These skills can be acquired through community college or vocational courses. Some vocational schools and community colleges offer land surveying courses. Some employers will hire people with this level of education, but others will require a bachelor’s degree for entry or advancement.
Private properties, commercial, industrial, and government-owned land parcels are all common places for an assistant surveyor to work. Prior to a construction project, a survey can be conducted along a roadway. The assistant land surveyor aids in the compilation of all the data gathered into useful information on property boundaries, or relays the information to someone higher up on the corporate ladder.
The ability to compute mathematical calculations for surveys, such as addition and subtraction, as well as trigonometry, is one of the requirements of an assistant surveyor, as covered by an entry examination. It’s also necessary to be able to verify actual distances and elevations, as well as decipher aerial photographs. Property and topographical maps must also be comprehended. In addition, a surveyor must be able to link construction project plans to the measurements that must be taken.
It is necessary to have a basic understanding of boundary lines and land ownership. An assistant surveyor’s knowledge of documents commonly used in land acquisition and real estate may be tested before they start working. When an assistant land surveyor encounters a dispute between land owners, they can assist in resolving the issue by understanding the documents that go along with it. During the course of a working day, you will come across a variety of other written materials. Career advancement is more likely for an assistant surveyor who demonstrates the required skills well on the job.