Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Originates, maintains, verifies and revises all campus maps and provides horizontal and vertical survey control on the real property of the University of Utah. Prepares and approves utility easements and rights of way. Coordinates with federal, state, local and private entities in all aspects of land surveying and utilities within and adjacent to the University of Utah.

Qualifications

State of Utah Land Surveyor's license; five years full-time experience in surveying, drafting and construction or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); and demonstrated effective communication and human relation skills required. A thorough knowledge and experience in plats, technical drawing and mapping on paper and CAD, legal descriptions, easements and accompanying drawings; a working knowledge of surveying math, e.g. Algebra, Trigonometry, and Geometry; and a knowledge of and the ability to use various surveying instruments and equipment are also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Plans, organizes and conducts surveys of University property to determine precise location and measurements of points, elevations, lines, areas, and contours for construction, mapmaking, or other purposes.
2. Researches previous survey evidence maps, deeds, physical evidence and other records to obtain data needed for surveys.
3. Keeps accurate notes, records, and sketches to describe and certify work performed.
4. Prepares new or updated maps of the campus, from survey data, showing changes in boundary lines, changes in utilities, new buildings, parking structures and lots, roads, etc.
5. Using sophisticated electronic instruments, locates and maps existing utility lines.
6. Assists in designing new walkways, new entry ways for existing buildings to meet federal regulations, sewer lines, surface water drainage schemes, etc.
7. Coordinates smaller civil engineering projects from inception through to completion.
8. Drafts blueprints, new plats, and updates existing maps as needed.
9. Converts hand drawn maps to electronic computer aided design and drafting (CADD) documents and enters them into the geographic information system (GIS) and maintains changes as necessary.
10. Prepares legal descriptions, right of ways, and easements of University property and certifies the accuracy of each document.
11. Issues digging permits for excavation on University property and assists in issuing utilities shutdowns as needed.
12. Purchases surveying supplies and equipment on an as needed bases.

Problem Solving

This position has the authority to settle property line/lease line disputes to the satisfaction of both parties by performing surveys and presenting the results to the parties involved. The incumbent also has the authority to make minor design decisions in the field on utilities and civil engineering problems. The position updates existing maps of the campus as new buildings and utilities are added or existing utilities and buildings are modified. The incumbent provides targets for aerial surveys requested by federal and state agencies and decides where these targets will be placed. Authority has been given for the incumbent to take information on the Fort Douglas property and convert it to the University system to be included and maintained.

One problem encountered in this position is the resolution of property line disputes with neighboring properties which may involve surveying property lines and researching deeds and other documents for answers to the problem. Another problem that is a constant concern is educating the students, faculty, staff, and the public as to the importance of surveying monuments. A third problem is locating utilities for emergency shut downs and repairs.

Comments

State of Utah Land Surveyor licensure requires graduation with an Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a land surveying program, equivalent program, or equivalency and completion of a program of qualifying experience in land surveying. For additional information, contact the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.