Survey Crew Chief/Survey Party Chief
About the role
SAM is seeking an experienced Land Survey Crew Chief to lead a team of surveyors in gathering and documenting data for various surveys.
Responsibilities
- Supervise daily field operations for land surveys including boundary, topographic, and construction layout
- Determine the most efficient plan of action for data acquisition, covering primary control through construction layout and as-built surveys
- Read and interpret construction drawings and understand project specifications and tolerances
- Communicate with project managers, engineers, and technicians about the land survey project schedule and work progress
- Interact professionally with client representatives and landowners
- Anticipate, prevent, and solve problems within authority
- Collect and interpret survey data, document field notes, sketches, and communications
- Document all phases of land survey operations neatly and orderly
- Prepare daily reports, time sheets, and other required paperwork
- Maintain land surveying vehicle and field equipment
- Follow company safety procedures, policies, and practices
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements
- 5+ years of industry experience; prior crew chief experience preferred
- Valid, current driver’s license required
- Competent operating robotic total stations, GNSS receivers, data radios/modems, terrestrial 3D laser scanners, automatic and digital levels, tablet PCs
- Experience with Trimble equipment preferred
- Strong computer, technical, and mathematical skills
- Strong communication skills (listening, writing, and verbal)
- Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-player attitude
- Able to work outdoors year-round in all types of weather conditions and environments and carry up to 80lbs
- Able to work weekends and travel/stay out of town for work as needed
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid, current driver’s license required
- 5+ years of industry experience; prior crew chief experience preferred
- Valid, current driver’s license required
- Competent operating robotic total stations, GNSS receivers, data radios/modems, terrestrial 3D laser scanners, automatic and digital levels, tablet PCs
- Experience with Trimble equipment preferred
- Strong computer, technical, and mathematical skills
- Strong communication skills (listening, writing, and verbal)
- Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-player attitude
- Able to work outdoors year-round in all types of weather conditions and environments and carry up to 80lbs
- Able to work weekends and travel/stay out of town for work as needed
Skills
- Leadership and supervision skills
- Data collection and interpretation
- Project management
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Field equipment operation
- Technical proficiency with survey instruments
Benefits
Health and Wellness Benefits: BlueCross BlueShield health insurance coverage, Free Vision + Dental plans, company-paid premiums for Long-term disability/Life Insurance (with HSA + FSA plans), SAM Cares program
Financial Benefits: Employee Referral Rewards Program, Fidelity retirement plans with a 5% company match, tuition reimbursement, optional cellphone stipend
Work-Life Balance: Paid time off including vacation/sick/holidays, parental leave
Professional Development: Customized career development plan for licensing and certifications, Project Manager Business Academy, CAD Training Program, Individual Development Plans/Career Check-Ins, SAM WINS - our initiative for women-focused leadership and development, Milestone Anniversary Recognition, SAMbassador mentorship program
Perks and Discounts: Access to “Perks at Work” for discounts on wellness + travel + leisure and everyday purchases, company-sponsored events, free office snacks
Culture and Awards/Achievements: SAM Named 2026 Top Workplace USA for the fourth Year; 2026 SAM Ranks No. 92 on ENR Top 500 Design Firms