Strategy & Consulting

Surveying Manager

SOC 11-9041.00 · ESCO 1349 · OSCA 131931

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Role snapshot

Overview

Leads survey teams that measure land boundaries, elevations, and site features using GPS and laser equipment, ensuring data accuracy for construction, mining, or mapping projects. Responsible for project planning, resource allocation, team supervision, and quality control of geospatial data.

Ensures the accuracy and reliability of geospatial data crucial for safe and efficient construction, infrastructure development, resource extraction, and legal land demarcation.

On the job

  • Plan and oversee surveying projects from conception to completion, including scope definition and resource allocation.
  • Supervise and mentor surveying teams, providing technical guidance and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
  • Review and validate survey data, ensuring accuracy, precision, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
  • Manage project budgets, schedules, and client communications.
  • Implement and maintain quality control procedures for all surveying operations.
Surveying Manager at work

Tools & technology

GPS/GNSS equipmentTotal StationsLiDAR scannersCAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D)GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS)Project Management Software

Average salary

$110K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$80K Bottom 10%
$150K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, civil engineering, or a related field. Professional licensure is often required.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Director of Surveying Operations
Geospatial Department Head

CURRENT ROLE

Surveying Manager

Strategy & Consulting

ADJACENT MOVES

Project Manager (Civil Engineering)
GIS Manager
Surveyor
Junior Surveyor
Geospatial Analyst

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

E

enterprising · EIC

Individuals who enjoy leading technical teams, solving complex problems, and ensuring precision in data management tend to excel as Surveying Managers.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Highly organised and meticulous in planning and executing complex surveying projects, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Engaging

Engages effectively with team members, clients, and stakeholders to communicate project status and resolve issues.

Collaborative

Collaborates well with diverse teams and clients, fostering a productive and respectful working environment.

Inquisitive

Open to adopting new surveying technologies and methods to improve efficiency and data quality.

Composed

Maintains composure and focus when facing project challenges, tight deadlines, or unexpected site conditions.

Best for

  • Professionals who thrive on leading technical operations and ensuring high standards of precision.
  • Individuals who enjoy mentoring teams and managing complex projects from planning to execution.

Watch out for

  • Can involve significant responsibility for project outcomes and team performance.
  • Requires balancing office-based planning and analysis with field-based supervision and problem-solving.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Surveying Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team Briefing & Schedule Review
New Project Planning & Scope Definition
Client Project Kick-off Call
Reviewing Survey Data & QA Checks
Tue
On-site Project Supervision & Problem Solving
Wed
Budget & Resource Allocation Review
Developing Standard Operating Procedures
Internal Department Meeting
Researching New Surveying Technologies
Thu
CAD/GIS Data Processing and Analysis
Project Progress Review with Stakeholders
Preparing Technical Reports and Presentations
Fri
Weekly Team Catch-up & Feedback
Administrative Tasks & Correspondence
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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