Survey Party Chief

Field Survey Crew Leader

Leads and manages field survey crews in performing a wide range of land surveying tasks. Ensures accurate collection, documentation, and transfer of survey data while maintaining compliance with project specifications, safety standards, and company procedures. Serves as the primary field representative and provides technical direction, equipment oversight, and quality control throughout survey operations.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities included but not limited to:

• Performs various types of surveys such as ALTA Surveys, property boundaries, route surveys, topographic surveys, project controls surveys and reading plats and deeds.
• Provide direction, training, and mentoring to survey crew members to support skill development and performance.
• Operate and maintain survey instruments and measuring devices, including levels, robotic total stations, GPS/GNSS equipment, and data collectors.
• Recommend improvements to surveying methods, equipment usage, and workflow processes to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
• Assist in preparing survey drawings using AutoCAD Civil 3D software.
• Conduct field data collection and perform necessary field calculations using established survey procedures.
• Maintain accurate, clear, and professionally prepared field notes.
• Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for project managers, contractors, clients, and other stakeholders regarding survey-related inquiries.
• Ensure the safe operation, cleanliness, and proper maintenance of vehicles, tools, and survey equipment.
• Transfer survey data to appropriate project files and prepare data for field and office use.
• Perform periodic reviews and audits of survey procedures, records, and deliverables to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and professional standards are met.
• Ensure all work practices follow federal, state, local, and company safety regulations and protocols.
• Out-of-area work requiring overnight stays may be necessary depending on project location and scheduling needs.

Qualifications/Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to plan, organize, prioritize tasks, and meet project deadlines.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, plats, schematics, and related documents.
• Proven ability to lead, direct, and mentor a field crew.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing site conditions.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize, understand, and apply safe working practices.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of Total Station and GNSS/RTK equipment.

Education/Experience:

• 2+ years of Survey Party Chief experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Degree in Surveying or related field preferred; equivalent surveying field experience may be considered

Certifications/Licenses Required:

• CST Level II or III preferred
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license

Physical Demands:

This position requires frequent standing, walking, and movement across uneven, sloped, or rough terrain, including wooded areas, roadways, and active construction sites. The Survey Technician must regularly lift, carry, and transport surveying equipment and materials typically ranging from 25–50 pounds, with occasional lifting up to 75 pounds. The role involves frequent bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching to set up and operate survey instruments, place stakes, and collect field data. Manual dexterity is required for operating GPS units, total stations, tripods, and hand tools, as well as for writing field notes and using tablets or mobile devices. The employee must have sufficient visual and auditory awareness to safely navigate field environments, operate equipment, and communicate with team members.

Work is primarily performed outdoors and requires the ability to tolerate exposure to all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, wind, and direct sunlight. Fieldwork may involve walking long distances, standing for extended periods, and working near traffic, heavy machinery, and other potential hazards typical of construction sites. The position may require early start times, extended hours, or occasional travel depending on project needs.