Education and Qualifications
In general, survey engineers enter the profession with either a minimum college qualification gained in an electrical and electronic engineering discipline, or through relevant qualifications gained in military service. However, relevant industrial experience would also be considered.
Skills and Training
The survey engineer requires many skills - the key academic skills are acquired through specialist courses while others, such as seamanship and instrument handling, are acquired on-the-job or from in-house training courses. Ongoing training and assessment of offshore personnel has been enhanced with the introduction of the IMCA guidance on competence assurance and assessment that was launched in January 1999. The framework sets out competence criteria for specific survey roles in the offshore construction industry. These roles include:
- Survey Engineer Grade II
- Survey Engineer Grade I
- Senior Survey Engineer
- Party Chief
To work offshore in any capacity it is usually necessary to complete a basic offshore safety induction and emergency training (BOSIET) course. This generally includes first aid, safety at sea, the basics of fire and fire fighting and helicopter underwater escape training (HUET). In many regions, someone who has not successfully completed a course of this nature will not be permitted to work offshore.
Medical Fitness
In many areas of the world, potential offshore workers must undergo and pass a special medical examination. These requirements may vary from country to country, but usually involve a medical leading to a certificate which may be valid for one or more years. The requirements are not unduly onerous for fit and active people but certain common conditions, or previous injuries, can be a cause for failure. If in any doubt, interested persons should seek out a doctor knowledgeable about offshore standards before they seek work or embark on a course of training.
Working Conditions and Prospects
Survey engineers can expect to travel overseas. They have to be resourceful, resilient and be able to work in a team environment. Due to the nature of the survey engineer's role within the industry they also have to be self-motivated and good communicators. Survey engineering is not a profession for the introverted or the faint hearted, but it is a job providing much personal satisfaction as well as good companionship.
After 5-7 years' field experience it is possible for a survey engineer to become a party chief (supervisor of a multi-disciplined offshore team). After several years' offshore experience, many move into managerial and technical support roles onshore. Prospects for moving up through the ranks are good and, for the ambitious, there is no limit to what can be achieved.
Further Information
For details on survey-related courses available at establishments around the world, visit our online Course Directory
For further information and contact details of offshore survey contractors in IMCA membership, contact IMCA or visit www.imca-int.com/members
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