Rural or Land Surveyor Jobs
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Are you passionate about the countryside, land management, and sustainable development? Rural Surveyor jobs offer a rewarding career that combines property expertise with a deep understanding of the rural environment.
At Stafffinders, we work with leading rural estates, property consultancies, and land management firms across Scotland, recruiting skilled and motivated professionals for permanent and contract roles. Whether you’re newly qualified or an experienced surveyor seeking a fresh challenge, we’ll help you find the right opportunity to grow your career in the property and surveying sector.
What Does a Rural Surveyor Do?
A Rural Surveyor is responsible for managing, valuing, and advising on rural land and property. From farms and estates to forests and leisure businesses, you’ll work closely with landowners, farmers, and rural enterprises to ensure land is used effectively and efficiently, balancing commercial success with environmental and regulatory considerations. Typical responsibilities include:
Managing rural estates, including farmland, tenanted dwellings, and agricultural businesses.
Advising clients on land use, diversification, and development opportunities.
Valuing rural properties, land, livestock, machinery, and crops.
Supporting the sale, purchase, and leasing of rural assets.
Advising clients on planning applications, environmental regulations, and renewable energy projects.
Ensuring compliance with UK and EU legislation on land use, agriculture, and sustainability.
Liaising with local authorities, landowners, and public agencies.
Preparing contracts, reports, and financial documents related to rural property management.
As a Rural Surveyor, you’ll play a key role in helping clients manage land efficiently and sustainably, whether that means introducing renewable energy schemes, repurposing redundant buildings, or protecting valuable natural assets.
Areas of Specialisation in Rural Surveying
Many professionals choose to specialise in a specific aspect of rural surveying, depending on their interests and expertise. These can include:
Agriculture – advising on farming operations, land tenancy, and agri-business management.
Auctioneering and Valuation – valuing and selling rural properties, land, and livestock.
Environmental Regulation Practices – ensuring compliance with environmental and sustainability laws.
Forestry and Estate Management – managing woodlands, conservation areas, and estate portfolios.
Each area provides unique opportunities to make a positive impact on the future of rural Scotland.
Qualifications and Experience Required for Rural Surveyor Jobs
There are several routes into a career as a Rural Surveyor, including university degrees, apprenticeships, and graduate training schemes.
Typical entry requirements include:
A degree or postgraduate qualification accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Relevant subjects such as Rural Business Management, Land Use and Environmental Management, Surveying, or Geography.
For apprenticeship or graduate schemes, 4–5 GCSEs/National 5s (grades A*–C or 9–4) and A Levels/Highers are generally required.
Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
Excellent knowledge of agricultural and environmental regulations.
A valid driving licence, as travel between rural sites is often necessary.
Professionals can also work towards chartered status with RICS, which enhances credibility and career prospects within the surveying profession.
Career Progression and Opportunities
Rural Surveying is a varied and dynamic field with excellent career prospects. With experience, you could progress into roles such as:
Senior Rural Surveyor
Estate Manager
Rural Practice Consultant
Director of Land Management
Head of Rural Property
You may also move into advisory positions within government bodies, environmental organisations, or national estate management companies.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your Rural Surveying career, explore Rural Surveyor jobs with Stafffinders today.