Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Surveyor
What surveyors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a surveyor?
Review deeds for a boundary survey. From there, the day usually includes research deeds and records, measure land with GPS and total stations, and set boundary markers. Most work full-time, with long days in good weather.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a surveyor working full time.
- Review deeds for a boundary survey.
- Drive to the site with the crew.
- Search for old property corners.
- Measure with GPS and a total station.
- Set new boundary monuments.
- Process data in CAD.
- Draft the plat and legal description.
Where surveyors work
Surveyors split time between field work in all terrain and weather and office work.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time, with long days in good weather.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Research deeds and records
- Measure land with GPS and total stations
- Set boundary markers
- Prepare plats and legal descriptions
- Stake out construction
- Lead survey crews
- Testify in boundary disputes
Tools you’ll use every day
- GNSS receivers
- Total stations
- Data collectors
- Drones and LiDAR
- AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Deed records
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Licensed professional career
- Outdoor and office mix
- Retirements create openings
- Technology-driven
What’s hard
- Weather and terrain
- Licensing takes years
- Legal liability
- Travel
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like working outdoors
- I’m precise
- I enjoy math
- I like technology
- I’m willing to earn a license
- I like history and records
Not sure? Take the free Surveyor fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Watch for traffic on roadside surveys
- Prepare for terrain and wildlife
- Wear high-visibility gear
- Follow drone rules