Mining meter

What does a Mining Surveyor do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Mining Surveyor is responsible for measuring, mapping, and documenting underground and surface mining environments. Tasks include using advanced measurement equipment and geodata to ensure safe and efficient mining operations. The surveyor plans measurements, inspects shafts and tunnels, and analyzes results to support production and safety efforts. The work environment can range from office work to fieldwork deep underground, where precision, safety awareness, and teamwork are essential.

Salary development over time

The salary for Mining Surveyors has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,700 SEK per month, rising to 44 400 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued upward to 47 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 11% over the period. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for technical expertise in the mining industry and higher requirements for digitalization and safety. The market's need for qualified surveyors, combined with technological advances and increased investments in the mining sector, has driven up salaries. At the same time, the development reflects a general shortage of specialized engineers and technicians in the field.

Mining Surveyor Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 47 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (male, private sector)
• Hourly wage: 285 SEK/hour (average for hourly workers, 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 44 900 SEK/month (93% of men's salary), men earn 48,500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Significant variations may occur, especially in regions with extensive mining activity

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Mining Surveyor usually involves a technical university degree in geoscience, surveying technology, or mining engineering. The education is often combined with internships and specialized courses in geodata and safety. To work independently, solid knowledge in mathematics, engineering, and data processing is required. Many employers also value experience from fieldwork or previous employment in the mining industry.

• Formal degree: Bachelor or Master of Science (3–5 years), preferably in geoscience or surveying technology
• Certifications/courses: Specialized courses in geodata, GIS, and safety are advantageous
• Internships: Workplace-based internships or trainee programs are recommended
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics, engineering, and IT
• Tips for choosing: Select programs closely linked to the mining industry with opportunities for collaboration with companies

Common Benefits and Compensation

Mining Surveyors are often offered collective pension schemes, wellness allowances, and insurance coverage for work-related injuries and illnesses. Other common benefits include extra vacation, flexible working hours, and access to further training and professional development. In some cases, bonus schemes or compensation for work during unsociable hours are also available.

Competition and Challenges

The demand for Mining Surveyors is generally stable but influenced by economic cycles and investments in the mining industry. Competition may be low in regions with extensive mining activity but higher where job opportunities are limited. Technological changes, such as increased use of digital tools and automation, impose new requirements for skill development. Safety considerations are also a challenge, as work often occurs in environments where precision and risk awareness are critical. For those wanting to establish themselves in the profession, flexibility and staying updated on new techniques and methods are important.

Tips for aspiring Mining Surveyors

To succeed as a Mining Surveyor, it helps to have an analytical mindset and a strong attention to detail, as accuracy is crucial in measurements and documentation. A technical interest facilitates understanding of advanced tools and software used in the work, enabling quick adoption of new methods. Collaboration skills are important because surveyors often work in teams with other professionals, while initiative makes it easier to take responsibility for projects and solve problems independently. Being flexible and adaptable is a significant advantage, as the work environment can vary from office to underground mines. Finally, a willingness to continuously develop your skills is valuable, as the industry constantly changes and technology evolves rapidly.

Key facts about Mining Surveyors

• Education level: Bachelor or Master of Science (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Alternates between office and underground fieldwork
• Demand: Approximately 564 available jobs in 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn 93% of men's salaries
• Employment form: Often full-time, sometimes shift work at larger mines

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a Mining Surveyor can advance to leadership roles such as project manager, supervisor, or specialist in geodata and surveying technology. Opportunities also exist to work on developing new measurement methods or training new colleagues. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but with 564 available jobs, demand remains good. Future prospects are influenced by economic cycles and investments in the mining sector. For those wishing to broaden their careers, international work or related fields such as geotechnics and environmental measurement are possible options.

Frequently asked questions about Mining Surveyors

• What does a Mining Surveyor earn?
  - The average salary is 47 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a Mining Surveyor?
  - Usually, a university or engineering degree in geoscience or surveying technology is necessary.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for Mining Surveyors?
  - There are approximately 564 available jobs, but forecasts are lacking due to limited data.
• In what environments do Mining Surveyors work?
  - The work environment varies between offices and underground mines, often emphasizing safety and teamwork.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Mining Surveyor?
  - The highest salary is 48,500 SEK/month (male, private sector), and the lowest is 36,900 SEK/month (female, public sector).
• What benefits are offered to Mining Surveyors?
  - Common benefits include collective pension schemes, wellness allowances, insurance, and further training.