Land & Measured Building Surveyor and Drone Pilot, Maltby Surveys

Started with: Level 6 Geospatial Mapping and Science Specialist Degree Apprenticeship

Working as: Land and Measured Building Surveyor and Drone Pilot, Maltby Surveys

How did your interest in surveying as a career develop?

When I first started surveying, I had very little knowledge of what surveying was however after working on various projects my interest grew as I realised how important the role of a surveyor can be for a project to be successful.

What did you study?

I studied Geospatial Surveying and Mapping Science on a five year degree apprenticeship program at the University of East London. This was extremely helpful as it allowed me to work 4 days a week and gain valuable work experience whilst also studying to understand the theory behind what I was doing at work. It allowed me to get a good qualification which is helpful for my professional development.

What is it about your current role that you enjoy and value most?

In my current role, I am trusted to carry out complex surveys by myself and to use high tech pieces of equipment. I enjoy getting to use drones to capture large amounts of data in a quick time, this is enjoyable as it can save days and days of walking and condense it down to just a few hours of flying for the same results.

What does a typical day and week look like for you?

Being a land surveyor means that you never had the same day twice, you are always working in a variety of different places, and the mix of site work and office processing means that every week is different.

What skills does someone need to do your job?

Problem solving, determination, attention to detail,

If you could give your younger self career advice now, what would it be?

Stick with surveying, as it becomes even more enjoyable when you get to lead your own jobs from start to finish and see the final outcome.

What does a land surveyor do?

A land surveyor measures and maps out the physical features of land. This includes showing boundary features, buildings, roads, drains and inspection covers and anything else of significant interest. These maps are used to help with construction development, boundary disputes and for legal documentation.

What has been your most memorable project to work on?

Getting to drive through Europe and to work in Austria in the alps at an amazing mansion, not only was it a great location but the whole experience in travelling for work was very memorable as there aren’t many professions that would get to do something like this. It was hard work when we were there, however seeing the final 3d models that were produced was a great feeling.

What has been your proudest career moment?

My proudest career moment would be when I completed my degree, achieving a first-class honour. I was proud of this as it took a lot of hard work to balance University study and work at the same time, but it was worth it as I came out of the degree apprenticeship with 5 years work experience, a degree and no student debt.