core responsibilities
the duties of a total station surveyor are vital for ensuring the accuracy and proper positioning of all elements of a construction project:
1. field operations (setting out and data collection)
setup and calibration: set up, calibrate, and operate the total station and associated equipment (like levels, prisms, and gps/gnss) with high precision.
setting out/layout: transfer design coordinates (points, lines, and levels) onto the construction site (staking out) for structures like foundations, columns, roads, pipelines, and boundaries.
topographical surveys: conduct detailed surveys to measure and record the natural and artificial features of a site, creating topographical maps and digital models.
volume measurement: calculate and measure earthwork quantities, material stockpiles, and excavation volumes.
2. data processing and quality control (qc)
data download and processing: download raw field data from the total station and process it using cad software (like autocad or civil 3d) to generate drawings, cross-sections, and reports.
checking and verification: perform rigorous checks and verification surveys to ensure the contractor's work aligns precisely with the design specifications (quality control).
as-built surveys: conduct final surveys of constructed features to create accurate as-built records for project documentation.
3. equipment and site coordination
maintenance: ensure the total station and other surveying instruments are properly maintained, calibrated, and handled according to manufacturer instructions.
coordination: work closely with the site engineer, civil supervisor, and construction crew to address immediate site layout requirements and resolve measurement discrepancies.
record keeping: maintain detailed, legible field notes, digital data logs, and survey reports documenting all measurements and site activities.