What Does a Land Surveyor Do?
A land surveyor is a licensed professional who measures and maps the Earth's surface to determine legal boundaries, elevations, and spatial relationships. Their work supports construction, real estate, engineering, and environmental management.
Core Responsibilities
- Define property lines and resolve boundary disputes
- Map topography and physical features for development projects
- Stake construction sites for roads, buildings, and bridges
- Conduct ALTA/NSPS land title surveys for commercial transactions
- Use GPS, drones, and 3D scanning to gather precise geospatial data
Land surveying isn't just about measuring — it's about interpreting data, understanding laws, and ensuring projects align with both science and property rights.
Learn more: What Is Land Surveying and Why It Matters
How to Become a Land Surveyor: The "Three E's" of Licensure
Every U.S. state has its own licensing requirements, but the process follows the same three pillars — known as the Three E's: Education, Experience, Examination.
Step 1: Get the Right Education
Education lays the foundation for your surveying career. Most states require at least a bachelor's degree in land surveying, geomatics, or a related field, accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
Recommended High School Courses
- Mathematics: Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus
- Science: Physics and Earth science
- Technology: Computer-Aided Design (CAD), GIS tools, and basic programming
- Communication: Report writing and technical presentation skills
Land Surveying & Geomatics Degree Courses
- Boundary and Property Law
- Photogrammetry & Remote Sensing
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- GPS & Geodetic Surveying
- Construction Surveying
- Data Analysis and Least Squares Adjustment
Explore our curated list of the Best Land Surveying Schools in the U.S.
Step 2: Build Experience
Gain supervised field and office experience under a licensed PLS. Most states require documented hours before you can sit for licensure exams. Use internships, entry-level roles, and mentoring to build competency in boundary, construction, and geodetic work.
Step 3: Pass the Exams
- FS (Fundamentals of Surveying): Entry-level exam validating core knowledge
- PS (Principles and Practice of Surveying): Professional competency exam
- State-specific exams: Local laws, regulations, and standards
Tools of the Trade
Modern surveyors use GNSS/GPS receivers, total stations, LiDAR, UAVs, and robust software (CAD, GIS, least squares). Understanding tool selection and calibration is key to data integrity.
See our Land Surveying Equipment Guide
Salary and Career Outlook
Compensation varies by specialty and region. Licensed PLS professionals and geomatics managers typically earn higher salaries. Experience with UAV mapping, laser scanning, and GIS integration is in demand.
Read the Land Surveyor Salary Guide
Jobs, Networking, and Community
Join professional networks, attend conferences, and participate in community forums to grow your career and keep skills current.
Land Surveying Jobs Board • Land Surveying Forums
FAQs
Is a geomatics degree required?
Many states accept geomatics, civil engineering with surveying coursework, or ABET-accredited surveying degrees. Check your state board.
How long does licensure take?
Typically 4–6 years including education, supervised experience, and exams.
What certifications help?
NCEES FS/PS, UAV Part 107 for drone operations, and vendor-specific software certificates.