The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing has voluntary certification programs for photogrammetrists and mapping scientists. To qualify for these professional distinctions, individuals must meet work experience standards and pass an oral or written examination. Surveyors should have the ability to visualize objects, distances, sizes, and other abstract forms. They have to work with precision and accuracy because mistakes can be costly. Surveying is a cooperative process, so good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team are important.
Leadership qualities are important for party chief and other supervisory positions.
Members of a survey party must be in good physical condition to work outdoors and carry equipment over difficult terrain. They need good eyesight, coordination, and hearing to communicate via hand and voice signals. Job Outlook Employment of surveyors is expected to decline slightly through the year 2005. The widespread use of GPS and remote sensing technologies is increasing both the accuracy and productivity of surveyors. Job openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force.