Career Geodetic Surveyors
Career Counselling

Geodetic Surveyors are professionals who use advanced technology and mathematical principles to accurately measure and map the Earth’s surface. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, engineering, mining, and environmental management.
Education and Training:
To become a Geodetic Surveyor in Nigeria, one must have a Bachelor’s degree in Surveying and Geoinformatics or a related field. After obtaining a degree, a candidate must complete a mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. Additionally, they must register with the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON) to be recognized as a professional surveyor.
Typical Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Geodetic Surveyors use specialized equipment to measure and map the Earth’s surface, including GPS technology, laser range finders, and digital levels. They analyze data and create maps, charts, and reports that are used in a variety of industries. They also work with other professionals, such as engineers and architects, to ensure that construction projects are built to the correct specifications.
Earning Potential:
The earning potential for Geodetic Surveyors in Nigeria varies depending on the level of experience and the industry they work in. Entry-level positions typically pay around ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 per month, while experienced professionals can earn upwards of ₦500,000 per month.
Opportunities for Career Advancement:
Geodetic Surveyors can advance their careers by taking on management roles or specializing in a particular area, such as environmental management or construction. They can also pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master’s degree in Surveying and Geoinformatics or a related field.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them:
One of the biggest challenges facing Geodetic Surveyors is the need to keep up with rapidly changing technology. To overcome this challenge, professionals in this field must stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in equipment and software.
Gaining Experience and Building a Network:
One of the best ways to gain experience and build a network in this field is to participate in internships or apprenticeships with established surveying firms. Additionally, attending professional conferences and joining industry associations can help professionals build valuable connections.
Job Prospects and Future Outlook:
The job prospects for Geodetic Surveyors in Nigeria are generally good, as there is a growing demand for professionals with this skill set. As technology continues to advance, the need for accurate mapping and measurement will only increase, creating new

Education and Training

Geodetic surveyors typically require a bachelor’s degree in surveying, geomatics, or a related field. Coursework may include math, physics, geography, and computer science. In addition to formal education, geodetic surveyors may also need to complete on-the-job training to gain experience with specialized equipment and software. Some states also require licensure for surveyors, which typically involves passing an exam and meeting other requirements such as education and experience. Continuing education may also be necessary to stay up-to-date with new technology and techniques in the field.

Job duties and Responsibilities

Geodetic surveyors are professionals who use advanced technology to measure and map the earth’s surface and features. Their job duties and responsibilities may include:
1. Conducting fieldwork to collect data using specialized surveying equipment such as GPS, laser scanners, and total stations.
2. Analyzing data to determine the precise location and elevation of natural and man-made features such as buildings, roads, and bodies of water.
3. Creating detailed maps, charts, and reports based on the collected data.
4. Providing accurate and up-to-date information to government agencies, construction companies, and other clients.
5. Collaborating with other professionals such as engineers, architects, and environmental scientists to ensure that survey data is used effectively in planning and construction projects.
6. Maintaining surveying equipment and ensuring that it is calibrated and in good working condition.
7. Keeping up-to-date with new surveying technologies and techniques.
8. Ensuring that all work complies with legal and regulatory requirements.
Overall, geodetic surveyors play a critical role in ensuring that construction projects are carried out safely and efficiently, and that accurate information is available to support decision-making in a range of industries.

Earning potential in this career

Geodetic Surveyors are professionals who measure and map the earth’s surface. They use specialized equipment to determine the exact locations of natural and man-made features on the earth’s surface, such as mountains, rivers, buildings, and roads.
In the short term, the earning potential for Geodetic Surveyors varies depending on their level of education and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surveying and mapping technicians, which includes Geodetic Surveyors, was $45,010 as of May 2020.
In the long term, the earning potential for Geodetic Surveyors can be quite lucrative. With experience and additional education, Geodetic Surveyors can advance to supervisory or managerial positions, which can lead to higher salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surveyors was $65,860 as of May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $108,230.
Overall, Geodetic Surveying can be a rewarding and financially stable career choice for those interested in the field.

Opportunities for career advancement

Geodetic surveying is a specialized field that deals with the measurement and mapping of the earth’s surface. Geodetic surveyors use advanced technology such as satellite positioning systems, lasers, and digital imaging to accurately measure and map the earth’s surface.
The opportunities for career advancement in geodetic surveying are quite good. With experience and further education, geodetic surveyors can advance to higher-level positions such as project manager, team leader, or department head. They can also specialize in a particular area of geodetic surveying, such as aerial surveying, hydrographic surveying, or land surveying.
Geodetic surveyors can also pursue further education and training to become licensed professional surveyors. This can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries. Additionally, geodetic surveyors can work in a variety of industries, including construction, mining, oil and gas, and environmental management, providing diverse career opportunities. Overall, geodetic surveying offers a promising career with opportunities for growth and advancement.

Biggest challenges facing people in this career

Geodetic surveyors are professionals who measure and map the earth’s surface to determine precise locations and measurements. Some of the biggest challenges facing people in this career include:
1. Technological Advancements: With the rapid pace of technological advancements, geodetic surveyors need to stay updated with the latest tools and techniques to remain competitive in the job market.
2. Physical Demands: Geodetic surveying can be physically demanding, requiring long hours of standing, walking, and carrying heavy equipment. It can also involve working in remote and challenging environments such as mountains, forests, and deserts.
3. Accuracy and Precision: Geodetic surveying requires a high level of accuracy and precision in measurements. A small error can result in significant inaccuracies in mapping, which can have serious consequences in construction, engineering, and other industries.
To overcome these challenges, aspiring geodetic surveyors can take the following steps:
1. Continuous Learning: To stay competitive in the job market, geodetic surveyors need to keep themselves updated with the latest technological advancements and techniques. They can attend conferences, workshops, and training programs to enhance their skills.
2. Physical Fitness: Geodetic surveying can be physically demanding, and it is essential to maintain a good level of physical fitness to perform the job effectively. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest can help maintain physical fitness.
3. Attention to Detail: Geodetic surveying requires a high level of accuracy and precision. Aspiring geodetic surveyors need to develop a keen eye for detail and an ability to work with precision.
4. Collaborative Work: Geodetic surveying often involves working in teams. Aspiring geodetic surveyors need to develop strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with colleagues and clients.
Overall, geodetic surveying is a challenging but rewarding career that requires a combination of technical skills, physical fitness, attention to detail, and collaborative work. With the right mindset and preparation, aspiring geodetic surveyors can overcome these challenges and succeed in this field.

Best ways to gain experience

1. Internships: Look for internships with geodetic surveying firms or government agencies. This will allow you to gain hands-on experience and build your skills in the field.
2. Volunteer work: Volunteer with organizations that work in geodetic surveying. This will provide you with experience and help you build your network.
3. Attend conferences and events: Attend conferences and events related to geodetic surveying. This will allow you to meet professionals in the field and learn about new developments and technologies.
4. Join professional organizations: Join professional organizations related to geodetic surveying, such as the National Society of Professional Surveyors. This will provide you with access to resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.
5. Seek out mentors: Seek out mentors who are experienced geodetic surveyors. They can provide you with guidance and advice as you build your career.
6. Build a portfolio: Build a portfolio of your work, including maps, reports, and other materials. This will demonstrate your skills and experience to potential employers and clients.
7. Stay up-to-date: Stay up-to-date with new technologies and techniques in geodetic surveying. This will help you remain competitive in the field and provide better services to clients.

Job prospects for this career

Geodetic surveyors are professionals who use specialized equipment to measure and map the Earth’s surface. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, mining, and oil and gas exploration.
The job prospects for geodetic surveyors are currently good, with a projected job growth rate of 11% from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. This growth is due to increased demand for accurate mapping and surveying in various industries, including infrastructure development and environmental monitoring.
In the future, the job prospects for geodetic surveyors are expected to remain strong due to the continued need for accurate mapping and surveying services. Additionally, advancements in technology are expected to create new opportunities for geodetic surveyors, such as the use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles for mapping and surveying.
Overall, geodetic surveying is a promising career choice with good job prospects now and in the future.

Important skills

Geodetic Surveyors are professionals who measure and map the earth’s surface to determine precise locations and measurements of points, elevations, distances, and contours. To succeed in this career, one needs to have the following skills and qualities:
1. Strong Mathematical and Analytical Skills: Geodetic Surveyors use advanced mathematical concepts and formulas to calculate distances, angles, and elevations. They must have a solid understanding of geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.
2. Attention to Detail: Geodetic Surveyors must be meticulous and accurate in their work. They must be able to identify and correct errors in measurements and data.
3. Technical Skills: Geodetic Surveyors use a variety of technical equipment such as GPS receivers, total stations, and digital levels. They must have the ability to operate and maintain these instruments.
4. Communication Skills: Geodetic Surveyors work in teams and must be able to communicate effectively with other members of the team. They must also be able to communicate their findings to clients and stakeholders.
5. Physical Stamina: Geodetic Surveyors often work outdoors in different weather conditions and terrains. They must have the physical ability to walk long distances, climb hills, and carry heavy equipment.
6. Problem-Solving Skills: Geodetic Surveyors must be able to think critically and solve problems that arise during fieldwork or data analysis.
7. Time Management Skills: Geodetic Surveyors must be able to manage their time effectively to meet project deadlines.
Overall, Geodetic Surveyors must have a strong work ethic, be detail-oriented, and have a passion for accuracy and precision.

Career demand

Geodetic Surveyors are in demand in various sectors or industries, including:
1. Construction and Engineering: Geodetic Surveyors play a crucial role in construction and engineering projects, providing accurate measurements and data to ensure that structures are built to exact specifications.
2. Mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Geodetic Surveyors are also in demand in the mapping and GIS industry, where they use their skills to collect and analyze data for mapping purposes.
3. Natural Resource Management: Geodetic Surveyors are involved in natural resource management, such as in forestry, mining, and oil and gas exploration. They help to identify and map natural resource deposits, as well as monitor environmental impacts.
4. Government and Public Service: Geodetic Surveyors are employed by government agencies and public service organizations to conduct surveys and provide accurate data for a range of purposes, including land management, infrastructure planning, and disaster management.
5. Transportation and Logistics: Geodetic Surveyors are also in demand in the transportation and logistics industry, where they help to plan and design transportation routes and infrastructure, such as highways, railways, and airports.

Common misconceptions people have about this career

Misconception: Geodetic Surveyors only work outdoors and in remote locations.
Reality: While Geodetic Surveyors do spend a significant amount of time outdoors, they also spend a lot of time in offices and using computer software to analyze data and create maps. They may work on construction sites, in cities, and in other urban areas.
Misconception: Geodetic Surveying is an outdated field that doesn’t use modern technology.
Reality: Geodetic Surveying is a highly technical and advanced field that uses modern technology such as GPS, laser scanning, and drones to collect and analyze data. Geodetic Surveyors use this technology to create highly accurate maps and models of the Earth’s surface.
Misconception: Geodetic Surveying is a low-paying job.
Reality: Geodetic Surveying is a highly skilled profession that requires a significant amount of education and training. As a result, Geodetic Surveyors are typically well-compensated for their work, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 or more depending on experience and location.