Land Surveyor

Job Description:

Verify the accuracy of survey data, including measurements and calculations conducted at survey sites.

Direct or conduct surveys to establish legal boundaries for properties, based on legal deeds and titles.

Prepare, or supervise preparation of, all data, charts, plots, maps, records, and documents related to surveys.

Prepare and maintain sketches, maps, reports, and legal descriptions of surveys to describe, certify, and assume liability for work performed.

Write descriptions of property boundary surveys for use in deeds, leases, or other legal documents.

Search legal records, survey records, and land titles to obtain information about property boundaries in areas to be surveyed.

Coordinate findings with the work of engineering personnel, clients, and others concerned with projects.

Establish fixed points for use in making maps, using geodetic and engineering instruments.

Calculate heights, depths, relative positions, property lines, and other characteristics of terrain.

Adjust surveying instruments to maintain their accuracy.

Train assistants and helpers, and direct their work in such activities as performing surveys or drafting maps.

Record the results of surveys, including the shape, contour, location, elevation, and dimensions of land or land features.

Determine longitudes and latitudes of important features and boundaries in survey areas, using theodolites, transits, levels, and satellite-based global positioning systems (GPS).

Compute geodetic measurements and interpret survey data to determine positions, shapes, and elevations of geomorphic and topographic features.

Analyze survey objectives and specifications to prepare survey proposals or to direct.

Plan and conduct ground surveys designed to establish baselines, elevations, and other geodetic measurements.

Develop criteria for survey methods and procedures.

Conduct research in surveying and mapping methods, using knowledge of photogrammetric map compilation and electronic data processing.

Develop criteria for the design and modification of survey instruments.

Locate and mark sites selected for geophysical prospecting activities, such as efforts to locate petroleum or other mineral products.