Geomatic engineers are professionals who measure the surface of the Earth to determine suitable areas in which construction can take place. These individuals should enjoy working with computers and have strong problem-solving ability. A person who would like to become a geomatic engineer needs to complete four years of college as well as gain experience through an internship. Completing licensure and certification requirements also makes him or her more attractive to employers in this field.
If you desire to become a geomatic engineer, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree in engineering, which typically requires four years of study. Enrollment in this type of program involves turning in your latest standardized test scores as well as your high school diploma or the equivalent certification. Schools also will ask to see your high school transcript and require you to fill out their admission forms.
Geography and math courses prepare you to succeed in this career area. For instance, you have to study how to produce maps based on measurements that you take of different points of the Earth’s surface, as this is a key duty of someone who aims to become a geomatic engineer. In addition, classes cover mathematical concepts because you will also use math formulas when analyzing land surfaces to determine the best areas in which buildings and other structures should be erected.
Even if your training program does not make completing an internship mandatory prior to graduation, you should look for hands-on training opportunities at firms in your area. As an intern, you must practice working with civil engineers to pinpoint appropriate sites for construction projects. This on-the-job training opportunity gives you the chance to sharpen your skills with verbal communication and analysis as you strive to become a geomatic engineer. You also need to get used to working both independently and in a team environment. If you can prove to your supervisor that you have mastered industry instruments and computer software, the company might be willing to hire you permanently or refer you to another hiring company.
Pursuing industry licensure and certification is necessary to further your work opportunities in this field as well. You should be prepared to pass an exam offered by an industry council to obtain a license, which often is required to practice in this vocational area. Other organizations then offer tests that lead to voluntary certification, which allows a person who plans to become a geomatic engineer to confirm to prospective employers that he or she is extremely knowledgeable about this line of work.