Mining surveyors are naturally analytical, observant and resourceful individuals. Below are some of the most important skills necessary for the role:
- Spatial perception and imagination: Mine surveyors often compare and contrast graphic representations of large areas, both above and underground, on plans and blueprints. Strong spatial and imagination skills enable surveyors to identify geographic changes when mapping out potential mine locations.
- Surveying: Surveyors use various tools, technologies and methods to perform surface and underground surveys for mines. Strong surveying skills help them determine potential mineral deposits.
- Organisation: Surveyors tackle different tasks with competing priorities and deadlines. Strong organisational skills enable them to complete survey tasks on time and without too much effort.
- Attention to detail: Accuracy is important when preparing site maps and legal documents with fine details. By being meticulous, surveyors can produce error-free maps, charts, models and plans for their clients.
- Analytical: Surveyors collect a lot of geospatial data which they then analyse and interpret. Having the ability to accurately analyse data and information ensures they reach an objective conclusion.
- Physical stamina: Surveying work can be physically demanding. This role involves walking long distances, standing for many hours in all types of weather and that’s all while carrying heavy packs of surveying instruments.
- Flexibility: Unpredictable schedules and travelling are often part of a mine surveyor’s role. Flexibility ensures they’re able to tackle any kind of work, including resource extraction projects in remote areas.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Surveyors use GIS technology to record and present spatial information such as maps, reports, and charts. GIS skills enable the surveyor to overlay aerial or satellite images with GIS data to create digital maps, which they share with planners and engineers.
- Collaboration: While surveying technology now allows them to perform some tasks alone, other tasks require surveyors to work with landscape architects, cartographers and civil engineers. Having the ability to work with a diverse team enables mine surveyors to develop comprehensive and accurate mine plans.
Text rights:(What Does a Mine Surveyor Do?, n.d.)
Text source: What Does a Mine Surveyor Do? (With Duties and Skills). (n.d.). Indeed Career Guide. Retrieved June 26, 2025, from https://au.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-does-mine-surveyor-do
