Boston is growing fast. New buildings are popping up in almost every neighborhood, and construction seems to be everywhere. But there’s one big problem slowing things down—there just aren’t enough skilled workers. One group especially feeling the pressure? Construction surveyors.
These professionals play a huge role in making sure buildings go up in the right place, at the right angle, and with the right measurements. Without them, even the best construction crews can’t move forward. Now, with a massive labor shortage hitting Boston hard, the demand for construction surveyors is climbing—and fast.
What’s Causing the Shortage?
On July 26, 2025, a new report revealed that 92% of construction companies in Boston are having a hard time finding enough skilled workers. That’s nearly every company. From general contractors to engineers, everyone is feeling the crunch.
But this shortage didn’t happen overnight. For years, fewer young people have been entering the trades. Many were pushed toward college instead of hands-on careers like surveying or construction. As older workers retire, not enough new ones are stepping in to replace them. It’s a simple math problem—and it’s catching up with the industry fast.
Why Construction Surveyors Matter More Than Ever
Let’s say you’re building a home, office, or even a public school. Before the foundation is poured, construction surveyors rely on detailed land surveys to provide the critical information needed to prepare the site. They mark where everything should go, measure boundaries, set markers for excavation, and ensure the land is ready.
If they’re not available, everything gets delayed.
Real Problems Clients Are Facing
Over the past year, more homeowners, developers, and lenders have been asking the same questions:
- “Why is it taking weeks to get a surveyor on-site?”
- “Why did the quote for a simple property line survey double?”
- “Why did our mortgage closing get delayed because the survey wasn’t ready?”
These delays are real—and costly. When a surveyor is booked out for weeks, your contractor can’t start. When a loan closing survey is late, your deal may fall through. And when you’re dealing with flood zones or elevation certificates, every day counts.
The Solution? Grow the Workforce Through Apprenticeships
There’s no quick fix, but some companies are doing something smart: building apprenticeship programs to train the next generation of surveyors and construction workers.
For example, Sleeping Dog Properties, a Boston-based firm, is working with groups like YouthBuild Boston and Building Pathways. These programs give young people—especially from underrepresented communities—a chance to learn on the job. They don’t just sit in a classroom; they get hands-on experience with real projects.
This matters for the future of construction surveyors. Right now, there simply aren’t enough licensed professionals to meet demand. But by investing in apprenticeships, companies can grow their own teams from the ground up.
What This Means for Surveying Firms
Surveying firms need to take this seriously. The firms that adapt will be the ones who thrive.
That means partnering with local training programs, mentoring younger workers, and even changing how they recruit. Instead of only looking for fully licensed surveyors, smart firms are now bringing in apprentices, training them in the field, and helping them become licensed over time.
Some are also turning to tech—using tools like drones for aerial surveys or 3D mapping software—to help do more with smaller teams. But even with technology, skilled people are still essential.
What Smart Clients Should Do
If you’re a homeowner, developer, or lender, this labor shortage might feel frustrating. But there’s good news: by choosing firms that offer reliable construction surveying solutions, you can avoid costly delays and keep your project moving smoothly. Planning ahead and working with experienced teams makes all the difference.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Book early. Don’t wait until the last minute to hire a surveyor.
- Ask about capacity. Does the firm have the team to meet your timeline?
- Support firms that train. Working with companies that invest in apprentices helps strengthen the whole industry—and speeds up future projects.
Looking Ahead: A Chance to Rebuild Smarter
Boston’s labor shortage is a serious challenge, but it’s also a turning point. If more companies invest in training programs and apprenticeships now, we could see a stronger, more diverse, and more prepared workforce within just a few years.
For construction surveyors, this is a chance to raise their profile and attract new talent. For clients, it’s a reminder to value and support the professionals who make every project possible.
As the city grows, we’ll need surveyors more than ever. Let’s make sure we’re ready—not just for today’s builds, but for the future of the skyline.
