Discover rewarding Licensed Surveyor jobs and build a career defining the physical world with precision and expertise. A Licensed Surveyor, often holding the title of Professional Land Surveyor (PLS), is a highly skilled and state-certified professional responsible for measuring, mapping, and legally defining land boundaries and topography. This critical role sits at the intersection of law, engineering, geography, and technology, ensuring the accurate and lawful use of land for development, construction, legal transactions, and public works. If you are detail-oriented, enjoy a mix of office and field work, and seek a profession with tangible impact, exploring Licensed Surveyor jobs offers a stable and respected career path. Professionals in these roles typically manage the entire surveying process. Common responsibilities begin with research, examining historical deeds, titles, and previous survey records to understand existing land rights. They then plan and oversee field crews who use advanced tools like GPS/GNSS systems, robotic total stations, and 3D laser scanners to collect precise measurements of angles, distances, and elevations. Back in the office, Licensed Surveyors analyze this field data using specialized software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D or Trimble Business Center to create detailed maps, plats, and legal descriptions. A core duty is the preparation and certification (sealing/signing) of official documents like boundary surveys, ALTA/NSPS land title surveys for commercial transactions, subdivision plats, and topographic maps for engineering design. They also stake out proposed construction projects, marking the precise locations for buildings, roads, and utilities. Beyond technical execution, Licensed Surveyor jobs often involve significant project management and client interaction. Surveyors frequently prepare project proposals and estimates, manage budgets and timelines, schedule personnel and resources, and ensure quality control on all deliverables. Collaboration is key, as they regularly work with civil engineers, architects, developers, government agencies, and attorneys to resolve boundary disputes, facilitate land development, and ensure regulatory compliance. A strong emphasis on safety protocols for field crews is a universal standard in the profession. Typical skills and requirements for Licensed Surveyor jobs include a bachelor’s degree in surveying, geomatics, civil engineering, or a related field, followed by several years of progressive experience under a licensed surveyor. Passing rigorous state-specific licensing exams is mandatory to earn the Professional Land Surveyor credential. Essential technical skills include proficiency with surveying instrumentation, CAD software, and geospatial data processing. Successful surveyors possess strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, excellent written and verbal communication skills for report writing and client consultation, and a solid understanding of property law and mathematics. A valid driver’s license is commonly required for site visits. For those with the right blend of technical aptitude and professional integrity, Licensed Surveyor jobs provide a foundational and fulfilling career shaping the built environment.
