Top 10 Questions for Surveyor Helper Interview

1. What are the different types of surveying equipment?

As a Surveyor Helper, you will be required to work with various types of surveying equipment. It is important to have knowledge of the different types of equipment and their uses. Please describe some of the most common types of surveying equipment and their functions.

• Total Station: A total station is an electronic surveying instrument that measures angles and distances. It is used for topographic surveys, construction stakeout, and other surveying tasks.
• Level: A level is a surveying instrument used to establish and maintain horizontal planes or level surfaces. It is used for leveling operations, such as determining the elevation of a point or setting up a level surface for construction.
• Theodolite: A theodolite is a surveying instrument used to measure horizontal and vertical angles. It is used for surveying tasks such as triangulation, traversing, and leveling.
• GPS (Global Positioning System): GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information. It is used for surveying tasks such as boundary surveys, topographic surveys, and construction stakeout.
• Drone: A drone is an unmanned aerial vehicle that can be used for surveying tasks such as aerial photography, mapping, and data collection.

2. What are the different methods of surveying?

There are various methods of surveying, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. As a Surveyor Helper, you should be familiar with the different methods of surveying and when to use each method.

• Plane surveying: This method assumes that the earth is a flat plane and ignores the curvature of the earth. It is used for small-scale surveys, such as topographic surveys.
• Geodetic surveying: This method takes into account the curvature of the earth and is used for large-scale surveys, such as boundary surveys and topographic surveys of large areas.
• Photogrammetric surveying: This method uses aerial photographs to create maps and terrain models. It is used for topographic surveys, land use planning, and other mapping applications.
• Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging): This method uses laser pulses to measure distances and create 3D models of the terrain. It is used for topographic surveys, forestry surveys, and other mapping applications.

3. What are the different types of errors that can occur in surveying?

Surveying is a complex process and errors can occur at any stage. As a Surveyor Helper, you should be aware of the different types of errors that can occur in surveying and how to minimize them.

• Instrumental errors: These errors are caused by imperfections in the surveying equipment, such as calibration errors or mechanical errors.
• Human errors: These errors are caused by mistakes made by the surveyor, such as reading errors or recording errors.
• Natural errors: These errors are caused by natural phenomena, such as atmospheric conditions or earth movements.

4. How do you calibrate a total station?

Calibrating a total station is an important task that ensures the accuracy of the instrument. As a Surveyor Helper, you will be responsible for calibrating the total station before each use.

• Set up the total station over a known control point.
• Center the instrument over the control point and level it.
• Sight the target and focus the telescope.
• Read the horizontal and vertical angles.
• Compare the readings to the known values for the control point.
• Adjust the instrument’s calibration settings until the readings match the known values.

5. How do you set up a level?

Setting up a level is a critical task in surveying. As a Surveyor Helper, you will be responsible for setting up the level before each use.

• Set up the level over the desired location.
• Level the instrument using the leveling screws.
• Center the bubble in the level vial.
• Adjust the height of the level using the leveling rod.
• Check the level of the instrument again.

6. How do you measure a distance using a tape measure?

Measuring distances using a tape measure is a fundamental task in surveying. As a Surveyor Helper, you will be required to measure distances accurately and efficiently.

• Stretch the tape measure between the two points to be measured.
• Hold the zero end of the tape measure at the starting point.
• Pull the tape measure taut and read the distance at the end point.
• Record the distance in the field book.

7. How do you calculate the area of a triangle?

Calculating the area of a triangle is a common task in surveying. As a Surveyor Helper, you should be familiar with the formula for calculating the area of a triangle.

• Measure the length of the base of the triangle.
• Measure the height of the triangle.
• Calculate the area of the triangle using the formula: Area = 1/2 * base * height.

8. What is the difference between a bearing and an azimuth?

Bearings and azimuths are both used to describe the direction of a line. As a Surveyor Helper, you should be familiar with the difference between bearings and azimuths.

• Bearing: A bearing is an angle measured clockwise from north or south. It is typically expressed in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
• Azimuth: An azimuth is an angle measured clockwise from true north. It is typically expressed in degrees.

9. What is a traverse?

A traverse is a series of connected lines that form a closed loop. As a Surveyor Helper, you will be involved in traversing to establish control points.

• Start at a known control point.
• Measure the distance and direction of each line in the traverse.
• Close the traverse by measuring the distance and direction of the final line back to the starting point.
• Calculate the error of closure and adjust the traverse if necessary.

10. What is a topographic survey?

A topographic survey is a survey that shows the topography of a land area. As a Surveyor Helper, you will be involved in topographic surveys to create maps and other documents.

• Establish control points around the area to be surveyed.
• Measure the elevation of the land at various points.
• Create a contour map showing the topography of the land.

As a Surveyor Helper, you will play a vital role in supporting surveying operations, ensuring accurate and detailed measurements.

1. Fieldwork Assistance

Provide assistance to surveyors in setting up and operating surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS receivers, and levels.

• Carry and position surveying rods, prisms, and other accessories.
• Record field measurements and observations using data collectors or notebooks.

2. Equipment Maintenance

Maintain and calibrate surveying equipment to ensure accuracy and functionality.

• Clean and inspect equipment regularly.
• Report any equipment problems or malfunctions to the surveyor.
• Assist in minor equipment repairs under the guidance of the surveyor.

3. Site Preparation

Prepare and clear survey sites for data collection.

• Remove obstacles, vegetation, or debris that may interfere with surveys.
• Establish and mark survey control points and reference points.

4. Data Processing

Assist in processing and organizing survey data.

• Transfer field measurements to digital formats.
• Create and maintain survey drawings, maps, and reports.

Preparing thoroughly for your Surveyor Helper interview will significantly increase your chances of success.

1. Research the Company and Position

Gather as much information as possible about the survey company and the specific role you are applying for. This demonstrates your interest and dedication.

• Visit the company website and read their mission statement, services offered, and any recent news or projects.
• Review the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and qualifications.

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Emphasize your skills and experience that are directly applicable to the Surveyor Helper role. Provide specific examples to support your claims.

• Describe any prior experience in surveying, construction, or field operations.
• Mention your proficiency in operating surveying equipment or using data collection software.

3. Demonstrate a Strong Work Ethic

Surveyor Helpers often work in challenging outdoor conditions. Emphasize your ability to work hard, stay focused, and pay attention to detail.

• Provide examples of situations where you overcame challenges or demonstrated perseverance.
• Explain how your physical fitness and endurance make you suitable for the role.

4. Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview shows your engagement and interest in the position.

• Inquire about the company’s ongoing projects and the role of the Surveyor Helper in those projects.
• Ask about opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company.