Chief of Survey, PLS

AI Engineers, Inc. (AIE) is seeking a Chief of Survey to lead our Survey Department in Middletown, CT, supporting projects in surrounding areas. This role is ideal for a licensed land survey professional with senior-level leadership experience and a proactive attitude.

About the Role

AIE is a multi-disciplinary, ENR-500 engineering consulting firm with 13 offices across the U.S. and over 350 employees. We specialize in Bridge, Transportation, Construction Engineering, Water/Wastewater, Site/Civil, Building Systems, Design-Build, Survey/Mapping, and Technology services for public and private clients nationwide. Our firm integrates advanced technology, including drones, laser scanning, artificial intelligence, and point-cloud mapping, to deliver high-quality infrastructure engineering services.

Responsibilities

• Lead survey projects and manage cost estimating for bids or potential projects.
• Manage and mentor junior staff in field and office survey procedures, best practices, and quality expectations.
• Perform boundary, topographic, construction, and control surveys for state, municipal, and private infrastructure projects, including buildings, roadways, bridges, and development sites.
• Process and analyze GPS survey data (Static, RTK, and RTN) to support accurate project deliverables.
• Conduct land records research and analysis, including boundary analysis, resolution of discrepancies, and interpretation of deed and right-of-way information.
• Prepare and develop survey deliverables, including mapping, exhibits, reports, and record drawings, using compiled field and office data.
• Review project information with a forward-looking mindset to identify missing data, conflicts, or future survey requirements.
• Apply a working understanding of construction documents and project delivery methods, including Design-Build, to support survey scope and execution.
• Process and analyze survey data derived from 3D scanning and photogrammetry, as required by project scope.
• Anticipate field and office challenges by thinking several steps ahead and addressing issues before they affect project schedule, quality, or cost.
• Collaborate closely with engineers, architects, construction professionals, and project managers to support coordinated project delivery.
• Adapt to and apply multiple CAD standards and client requirements across a variety of projects.
• Support cost estimating, task planning, and efficient execution of survey assignments.

Requirements

• Certified Professional Land Surveyor (PLS).
• 10+ years of survey experience.
• Experience with Carlson Survey, Leica Infinity, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Bentley/MicroStation OpenRoads Designer, or similar software.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with cost estimating is required.
• Experience leading teams for boundary and topographic surveys, bridge and road surveys, and construction surveying for layout and contractor checks (strongly preferred).
• Familiarity with CT DOT and CT DEEP survey practices and procedures (preferred).

Skills & Abilities

• Self-starter with the ability to lead survey crew teams and manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Proficient in the use of survey equipment, field procedures, and development of final mapping, reports, and survey data records.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate issues, evaluate alternatives, and make sound decisions in the field and office.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to coordinate effectively with project teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrates sound professional judgment and attention to detail to ensure quality, accuracy, and completeness of survey work.

Benefits

• Company-paid HSA contributions.
• 401k match.
• Competitive PTO package.
• ESOP program.
• Mentorship and advancement opportunities.
• Flexible work environment.