Surveying technician
Level 3 · AdvancedConstruction and the built environment 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship trains surveying technicians to provide technical support across disciplines such as quantity surveying, building surveying, or geomatics, working within construction, property, or land sectors. Apprentices carry out measurements, surveys, and data collection to support professional surveyors. It can lead to progression onto a degree apprenticeship in surveying or RICS Associate membership.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Surveying principles across quantity, building, or geomatics disciplines
Taking and recording measurements accurately using surveying equipment
Reading and interpreting drawings, plans, and specifications
Producing basic cost estimates, schedules, or survey reports
Health and safety on construction sites and in field surveying
Using computer-aided design (CAD) or surveying software tools
Professional conduct and RICS ethics in surveying practice
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Assist surveyors in conducting site surveys and inspections
Take accurate measurements using tapes, levels, or total stations
Prepare and check drawings, schedules, and reports
Research property data and collate information for senior surveyors
Attend site visits and record observations or defects
Use surveying software to process and present data
Maintain accurate records and filing for surveying projects
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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