Traverse

Term from Geological Surveying industry explained for recruiters

A traverse is a basic method used in land surveying to map and measure areas. Think of it like drawing a connect-the-dots pattern across the land, where surveyors measure distances and angles between points to create accurate maps. This technique is essential for construction projects, property boundaries, and geological studies. When you see this term in resumes, it usually means the candidate has experience in field surveying and can accurately measure and document land features. It's similar to creating a detailed roadmap, but for precise land measurements.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted traverse surveys across 500-acre mining sites to establish control points

Led team of 3 surveyors performing traverse measurements for highway construction

Utilized GPS and total station equipment to complete traverse surveys for environmental assessment

Typical job title: "Land Surveyors"

Also try searching for:

Surveyor Land Surveyor Survey Technician Geomatics Technician Survey Party Chief Geological Surveyor Field Surveyor

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure accuracy when performing a large-scale traverse survey?

Expected Answer: A senior surveyor should discuss methods of error checking, GPS integration, equipment calibration, and proper documentation procedures. They should mention the importance of closing the traverse and calculating adjustments.

Q: How would you manage a complex surveying project with multiple traverse points?

Expected Answer: Should explain project planning, team coordination, quality control measures, and how to handle challenging terrain or conditions. Should discuss documentation and data management strategies.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to correct traverse errors?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common types of measurement errors and standard correction procedures. Should mention compass rule adjustments and angular balancing.

Q: How do you coordinate traverse surveys with GPS measurements?

Expected Answer: Should describe the integration of traditional traverse methods with modern GPS technology, including when to use each method and how to combine data from both sources.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a traverse and why is it important in surveying?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a traverse is a series of connected points used to establish position and measurements, and its basic importance in creating accurate land surveys.

Q: What basic equipment is used in traverse surveying?

Expected Answer: Should list and describe basic surveying tools like total stations, tripods, measuring tapes, and prisms, and explain their basic functions.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic equipment operation
  • Simple traverse measurements
  • Field note taking
  • Basic math calculations

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex traverse planning
  • Error adjustment techniques
  • GPS integration
  • Team coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Advanced error analysis
  • Quality control procedures
  • Training and supervision

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No field experience with actual traverse surveys
  • Unfamiliarity with basic surveying equipment
  • Poor understanding of measurement accuracy
  • Lack of knowledge about safety procedures
  • No experience with modern surveying technology