SURVEY TECHNICIAN (GRADE A-C)

This vacancy is for a Survey Technician at Grade A to C level, based in East London within the Eastern Cape. The position sits in the Examination, State and Land Reform Surveys Services directorate, a component of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development responsible for the technical oversight of survey work, land reform surveys, and the management of survey records. The role is an OSD-graded technical post, meaning the salary is set according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation and linked to the technician's experience and grade. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing a broad range of technical survey services that support the department's land reform and state land management objectives, including performing field surveys, computations, and the examination of survey documentation.

Applicants wishing to be considered must hold a Grade 12 certificate and a National Diploma in Survey or Cartography at NQF Level 6. Compulsory registration with the South African Geomatics Council as a Survey Technician or Surveyor is required, along with at least three years of post-qualification technical survey experience. A valid driver's licence is essential. The role demands a solid blend of technical knowledge and management capability, including programme and project management, survey design and analysis, research and development, computer-aided survey applications, legal compliance, and technical report writing. In addition, candidates must demonstrate skills such as decision-making, team leadership, analytical thinking, self-management, financial management, customer focus, communication, computer literacy, planning, conflict management, problem solving, people management, and innovation.

The core duties are varied and encompassing. The technician will render technical survey services and support, carry out surveys and computations, and provide technical services related to the examination, maintenance, archiving, and supply of survey documents, submitting them for evaluation or approval by the relevant authority. They will also evaluate plans, technical manuals, standard drawings, and procedures to integrate new technology. The role includes providing Geographic Information System, mapping, and information supply services, as well as performing administrative functions, contributing inputs to the budgeting process, compiling reports, and assisting with the technical survey operational plan. Database development, implementation, and maintenance are also key responsibilities. The post carries supervisory duties, including overseeing and controlling Candidate Survey Technicians, other related personnel, and assets. The incumbent will conduct research and development, undertake literature studies to stay current with technical survey technology, and participate in continuous professional development. Liaising with relevant bodies and councils on survey matters is an important part of the position, ensuring compliance and alignment with professional standards.

Notably, the department has set employment equity targets for this post, specifically seeking African, Coloured, Indian and White males, Coloured, Indian and White females, and persons with disabilities. This underscores the department’s commitment to transformation and inclusive representation. Applicants should take note of the special conditions, including the need for a valid driver's licence and the requirement for active SAGC registration. The closing date and detailed submission instructions are provided in the circular, and all interested candidates are encouraged to review the full advertisement carefully before applying. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified technical surveyor in the Eastern Cape to contribute meaningfully to South Africa's land reform and state land surveying services while developing a professional career within the public sector.