Survey Party Chief - Houston, TX

About the role

This position is based in Houston, TX. Candidates must reside in Houston, TX or be willing to travel/relocate. The Survey Party Chief is responsible for leading and coordinating the activities of a field survey team, overseeing complex field surveying tasks, and ensuring team safety and performance. This advanced role requires expertise in land surveying practices, a solid understanding of the Subdivision Map Act, and knowledge of relevant federal and state laws. The Party Chief also provides training and guidance to team members while ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead a field survey crew conducting surveys for construction, topographic, right-of-way, and control projects
• Participate in pre-survey meetings, assign tasks, evaluate performance, and provide training on survey methods, equipment uses, and field safety
• Collect field data using conventional and GPS methods, operate and maintain survey equipment (e.g., total stations, GPS), and conduct surveys for roadway, bridge, and flood control projects
• Establish control points and locate boundaries and property lines
• Perform complex surveying calculations using tools like AutoCAD and coordinate geometry software, analyze data for accuracy, and prepare survey reports such as topographic maps, records of survey, and grade sheets
• Research and review existing records (maps, deeds, easements), and maintain detailed project files and survey data records
• Ensure proper operation, maintenance, and inventory of survey equipment
• Supervise and train team members, ensuring safety and effective performance
• Complete tasks with attention to detail, including field calculations and survey documentation
• Ensure timely and efficient project completion within deadlines and budget constraints
• Carry out all duties with a focus on safety and team efficiency

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid driver's license
• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Land surveying experience is a plus
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Ability to read instructions, plans, and specifications for accurate survey data collection
• Must be capable of setting up equipment and clearing topography when necessary
• Ability to perform fieldwork for extended periods, sometimes in adverse weather conditions
• Must understand and follow oral and written instructions

Skills & Competencies

• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities
• Problem-solving and analytical skills
• Attention to detail and precision in all tasks
• Ability to collaborate and function effectively in a team setting
• Adaptability within a fast-paced organization
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant tools
• GPS experience (preferred)
• Technical report writing and computer-assisted surveying applications (preferred)

Supervisory Responsibility

In charge of field survey party that includes Instrument Technician (ITech).

Work Environment

Work is performed both outdoors and in an office environment. Outdoor work may be conducted at landfills, construction sites, and in traffic.

Physical Demands

To perform the essential functions of the job, incumbents may be required to perform moderately strenuous tasks, such as lifting and carrying instruments weighing up to 75 pounds over rough terrain. Incumbents may also be required to clear vegetation, dig holes, and pound stakes with hand tools.

Schedule

This is a full-time position. Standard working hours are Monday through Saturday and some Sundays (time varies).

Travel

Overnight travel can be anticipated. Local day travel is required to meet project and client demands. This position includes a mix of local fieldwork and travel to out-of-town project sites. Travel may involve overnight stays and extended time away, depending on project location and duration. Employees must be flexible and willing to travel as needed to meet project demands.