Select Surveys has officially signed to the Armed Forces Covenant and been awarded the Bronze Employer Recognition Scheme award to demonstrate our commitment to employing and supporting ex-military personnel moving into the civilian working environment.

We recognise that veterans have developed a wide variety of qualities and transferable skills whilst in the forces, many of these highly applicable to a career in surveying. We already have ex-military personnel working within the business and look forward to welcoming more.

We have roles available including Utility Surveyors and Topographical Surveyors, with full training offered for entry level positions.

Why choose a career in surveying?

Select Surveys Utility Surveyor Jack left the army in 2017 after serving seven years with 59 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers based in North Devon. We spoke with Jack about life after the army and why a career in surveying was the right one for him.

How did you get into surveying?

I got into the job purely by chance. I was actually offered the role of trainee Utility Surveyor after originally applying for a different role within the company. I had no idea what the job would involve but after receiving a job spec I took a leap of faith and began my career in surveying!

What training did you receive?

Luckily, I didn’t need any prior qualifications or knowledge to start my journey to becoming a surveyor, I was out on site and learning on the job from experienced colleagues.

On my first day I was put on my Level 3 in Utility Mapping and Surveying which I needed to gain my CSCS card and be allowed on site. During my career I’ve been through various other courses including Advanced Locating, an official training course with the CAT and GENNY RD8100 and TX-10, and Confined Space which allowed me to enter manholes. Finally I was put on my Level 5 diploma – Utility Mapping surveyor.

What skills did the military equip you with that are transferrable to your job now?

The Army equipped me with a good work ethic and how to work well under pressure. It also made me a team player and excellent communicator which has helped me become a good surveyor and progress in this career

What do you enjoy about being a surveyor?

I enjoy the fact that most days are different, I’m often on different sites in various places and meeting new people. I also enjoy working outside and being hands on.

Would you recommend this career choice to others leaving the forces?

I would. In fact, I recently recommended this job to a friend of mine still in the army who wanted to leave but was unsure about what he would do once he was out. He has now secured himself a role as a trainee Utility Surveyor within Select Surveys once he has served his notice period. So yes, I would highly recommend getting into surveying – it’s a secure career for life.