UAV and aerial surveyor
Operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to collect data and images for surveying and mapping purposes.
About the job
What it's like
You could be doing anything from protecting the environment by measuring sea ice and the pace of climate change, to mapping out the foundations for the world’s latest architectural masterpiece.
You could be working in various industries such as agriculture or construction. UAVs surveys are cost-effective, efficient and allow for better decision-making through accurate mapping and analysis.
Your tasks might include:
piloting drones equipped with cameras and LiDAR (which stands for Light Detection and Ranging) to collect data
creating 3D image models to better understand the surveyed environment
assisting architects with the development of new infrastructure
maintaining and repairing UAV equipment
ensuring compliance with safety regulations and airspace restrictions
Hours
Environment
Travel
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- time management
- resourceful
- problem solving
- networking
- innovative
- analysing
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Geography
Maths (Mathematics)
Computing Science
Physics
Photography
Design and Technology
There are a number of skills needed for this role which can you gain through various routes such as further education and practical work experience.
It’s likely you’ll need a highly-specialised degree for this role. This could be an honours degree accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in subjects such as:
surveying
construction
civil engineering
building engineering
If you have a non-RICS accredited degree, you’ll need to take a postgraduate course in surveying.
Useful subjects you can take at HNC and HND level include:
geomatics
surveying and mapping science
You might consider an apprenticeship that’ll allow you to study while gain practical work experience at the same time. Some relevant apprenticeships include:
Memberships of an industry organisation such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) can also be a valuable way to build contacts within the industry and land a suitable role.
You’ll usually need a driving licence.
Staff on construction sites must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent. You’ll need to pass a health and safety test to qualify for this scheme.
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