Survey Assistant in Peterborough

Recruiting Today: Seeking Remote Survey Assistant in Peterborough

Job Description: Survey Assistant in Peterborough

Main responsibilities:

• Assist in conducting surveys and collecting data in Peterborough and surrounding areas
• Accurately record survey responses using appropriate tools and methods
• Ensure data quality by following established survey protocols and guidelines
• Communicate effectively with survey participants to obtain accurate and complete responses
• Maintain confidentiality of all survey data and participant information
• Collaborate with survey team members to meet project deadlines and objectives
• Travel to various survey locations within Peterborough as required

Required skills & qualifications:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficient in using electronic devices for data collection (e.g., tablets, smartphones)
• Comfortable approaching and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends if needed
• Reliable transportation to reach survey locations within Peterborough

Experience:

• Previous experience in conducting surveys or data collection is preferred but not required
• Familiarity with Peterborough and its various communities is a plus
• Customer service or public-facing experience is beneficial

Pay rates for Survey Assistants in Peterborough:

• Entry-level Survey Assistants typically earn between £11.50 to £12 per hour
• Experienced Survey Assistants with specialized skills or certifications can earn up to £15 to £18 per hour
• Some positions may offer additional benefits, such as mileage reimbursement for travel within Peterborough

Various Survey Assistant roles in Peterborough may include:

• Market Research Survey Assistant
• Public Opinion Poll Survey Assistant
• Health and Wellness Survey Assistant
• Social Science Research Survey Assistant
• Customer Satisfaction Survey Assistant
• Political Campaign Survey Assistant

What is a Survey Assistant?

A survey assistant is a vital role that supports land surveyors and civil engineers in collecting and recording data for mapping, construction, and land development projects. Survey assistants help with tasks like measuring distances and angles, marking boundaries, recording survey data, and operating surveying equipment. The job of a survey assistant is hands-on and involves both fieldwork at outdoor sites and office work processing and organizing the collected data.

Survey assistants typically work under the supervision and guidance of a licensed land surveyor. The surveyor is responsible for planning the survey, determining what data needs to be collected, and ensuring the accuracy and quality of the information. The survey assistant helps carry out the surveyor’s plans by performing much of the actual fieldwork and data collection. Assistants also help maintain, calibrate, and transport the expensive surveying equipment used on the job.

Survey Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

The exact duties of a survey assistant can vary depending on the specific project, but the job generally involves the following key responsibilities:

• Fieldwork: Survey assistants spend much of their time in the field at the locations being surveyed. This can involve traveling to the site, walking the terrain, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. In the field, survey assistants use tools like measuring tapes, prisms, electronic distance measurement devices, GPS receivers, and surveying software to precisely measure distances, angles, and elevations. They place markers, stakes, and monuments to indicate boundaries and key points. Fieldwork is usually done in teams, with assistants working under a lead surveyor.
• Data Collection and Recording: As measurements are taken in the field, survey assistants carefully record all the collected data either with handwritten notes or by entering information into handheld electronic data collectors. Assistants need to be diligent about recording data clearly and accurately, as errors can invalidate the entire survey. The data typically includes location coordinates, distances, angles, elevations, field sketches, and site conditions. Additional information may be gathered from research of land records, deeds, easements, and existing maps.
• Equipment Operation and Care: Surveying utilizes specialized equipment that survey assistants need to be able to competently use and maintain. Core tools include levels, theodolites, robotic total stations, 3D scanners, and GPS receivers. Assistants set up tripods and equipment at the site, ensure devices are properly calibrated, and troubleshoot any malfunctions. They are responsible for safely packing, unpacking, cleaning, and transporting gear between the office, vehicles, and field sites.
• Data Processing and Drafting: After field data is collected, survey assistants help process it back at the office. This involves transferring data from field notes and data collectors into computer databases and CAD (computer-aided design) files. Assistants may help generate plots, maps, and drawings from the data. Some may also assist with basic computations and analysis of the measurements under the direction of the surveyor.

Skills and Qualifications

Becoming a survey assistant does not necessarily require extensive specialized education, as much training occurs on the job. However, the position does demand a combination of technical and physical competencies:

• Math and Technology Fundamentals: A foundational understanding of geometry, trigonometry, and technology is very helpful for survey assistants. Basic knowledge of drafting, CAD software, and GIS (geographic information systems) is a plus. Most survey assistants are expected to be proficient with computers and able to pick up industry-specific software packages relatively quickly on the job.
• Physical Stamina and Outdoor Skills: Survey assistant work is physically demanding, especially the fieldwork component. Assistants need to be able to walk long distances, sometimes over uneven terrain, while carrying equipment. Comfort with working outdoors in all weather conditions is essential. Fieldwork may require some early mornings, as teams try to get measurements completed before heat and humidity build later in the day. Experience with orienteering, using compasses, and reading maps is very useful.
• Detail Orientation and Accuracy: Surveys and engineering plans depend on extremely precise and accurate measurements and data. Survey assistants must have strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in collecting and recording data. Mismeasurements or transcription errors can invalidate surveys and undermine entire projects. Assistants need to be diligent and meticulous in their work.
• Teamwork and Communication: Survey assistants work as part of a team and must be able to communicate and coordinate effectively with colleagues. Cooperating with other team members is critical to efficiently collecting data and safely operating in the field. Following instructions carefully and providing clear updates to supervisors are also important. Some survey assistants may need to interact with clients, landowners, government officials, or the public in the course of their work, so professionalism and courtesy are valuable traits.

Career Outlook and Advancement

The job outlook for survey assistants is generally positive, driven by ongoing needs for land surveying to support construction, infrastructure, and resource management. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% growth in surveying and mapping technician jobs between 2021 and 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Survey assistant positions can be a great entry point into the surveying and engineering fields. Many survey assistants are students or recent graduates in geomatics, civil engineering, or construction management programs looking to gain practical experience. Others are professionals from adjacent industries like construction or landscaping.

With experience and demonstrated aptitude, survey assistants can advance their careers in multiple directions. Some progress to become instrument operators, party chiefs (lead surveyors), or specialists in specific types of surveys. Acquiring professional certifications from organizations like the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) can enhance advancement opportunities.

Motivated survey assistants may decide to pursue additional education and licensure to become professional land surveyors. This usually requires a bachelor’s degree in surveying, geomatics, or a related field, plus several years of experience and passing licensure exams. Others may choose to leverage their surveying experience into other areas like civil engineering, construction management, or geographic information systems (GIS) analysis.

Survey Assistant Jobs in Peterborough

For those interested in survey assistant jobs, Peterborough presents some appealing opportunities. As a growing city, Peterborough and the surrounding region have ongoing development, construction, and infrastructure projects that require land surveying services. Some major local employers of survey assistants include:

• City of Peterborough: The municipal government employs survey assistants in its Engineering & Construction department to support infrastructure and public works projects. Assistants may work on road construction, utilities, parks, and municipal building initiatives.
• Private Surveying Firms: Peterborough has several private surveying companies, such as Elliott and Parr, that provide land surveying services to residential, commercial, and government clients. These firms employ survey assistants to support their licensed surveyors on a variety of projects.
• Engineering Consultancies: Some larger engineering firms in Peterborough, such as Kirkland Engineering Ltd, hire survey assistants to work within their surveying and geomatics divisions. These positions support the firm’s civil engineering and construction projects.
• Construction Companies: Larger construction firms may have in-house surveying teams that include survey assistant positions. PCL Construction and Black & McDonald are examples of major construction companies with offices in Peterborough that could employ survey assistants to support their building projects.

Becoming a survey assistant can be a rewarding career choice for someone who enjoys hands-on work, being outdoors, and contributing to impactful development projects. With opportunities for advancement and transferable skills, it can be an appealing option for Peterborough job seekers to consider.

Conclusion

Survey assistants play a crucial role in collecting the accurate data and measurements that form the basis for mapping, engineering, and construction projects. Working under the guidance of licensed surveyors, survey assistants perform vital fieldwork, operate surveying equipment, and help process data to support development initiatives.

While being a survey assistant is physically demanding and involves outdoor work in various conditions, it can be a fulfilling job for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy hands-on work in the field. Peterborough and the surrounding region offer good opportunities for survey assistant jobs, thanks to ongoing municipal infrastructure projects, private development, and the needs of local surveying and engineering firms.

For job seekers in Peterborough looking to enter the surveying and engineering fields, build practical experience, or pivot into a new career path, exploring survey assistant positions can be a promising option to consider. With focused effort and continued development, a start as a survey assistant can lead to a satisfying and high-impact career in geomatics, construction, or engineering.

FAQs – Find Survey Assistant in Peterborough with Team Recruiting Today

What services does Survey Assistant offer in Peterborough?

Survey Assistant provides comprehensive land surveying services in Peterborough, including boundary surveys, topographic surveys, construction staking, and as-built surveys. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results.

How can I request a survey from Survey Assistant in Peterborough?

To request a survey, simply contact our Peterborough office by phone or email. Our friendly staff will gather the necessary information about your project and provide you with a detailed quote. Once you approve the quote, we’ll schedule a convenient time to conduct the survey.

What is the turnaround time for a survey in Peterborough?

The turnaround time for a survey depends on the complexity of the project and our current workload. However, we strive to complete most surveys within 1-2 weeks of receiving the request. If your project is time-sensitive, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your timeline.

How much does a survey cost in Peterborough?

The cost of a survey varies depending on factors such as the size of the property, the type of survey required, and the terrain. We provide competitive pricing and will give you a detailed quote before starting any work. Our goal is to offer high-quality surveying services at a fair price.

Is Survey Assistant licensed and insured in Peterborough?

Yes, Survey Assistant is fully licensed and insured to operate in Peterborough. Our surveyors are members of the Association of Ontario Land Surveyors and adhere to strict professional standards. We also carry comprehensive liability insurance for your peace of mind.