Survey Crew Chief (Field-Based)Overview We have an immediate opening for an experienced Survey Crew Chief in the Chapel Hill, NC area to lead field surveying operations on a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial projects. This is a hands on, field based rolenot an office positionideal for someone who enjoys being outdoors, leading crews, and taking ownership of high quality survey deliverables.
This is a direct hire opportunity with exceptional benefits, including 100% employer paid medical insurance, a company provided vehicle and fuel card, and consistent overtime opportunities. The right candidate brings strong technical survey knowledge, leadership ability, and a professional, down to earth demeanor. Compensation & Location
Pay Rate: $28.00$40.00 per hour (higher rates available for PLS or 7+ years of experience)
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Benefits: 100% employer paid employee medical benefits + strong retirement and company perks
Vehicle: Company provided truck and fuel card
Location: Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Work Arrangement:
Field-based with minimal office reporting
Typical day: home, job-site, home
Office visits a few times per month for meetings or resupply
Schedule: MondayFriday, day shift
Travel: Primarily within a 50 mile radius; occasional overnight travel
Key Responsibilities
Lead and supervise a survey field crew, assigning tasks, providing guidance, and ensuring safety and quality standards are met.
Perform and oversee field surveys including:
Boundary and ALTA surveys
Topographic and existing conditions surveys
Right of way and transmission line surveys
Transportation surveys
Construction layout and staking
Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and the Director of Surveying to plan survey scope, schedules, and resources.
Conduct field data collection using GPS, total stations, laser scanners, and GNSS equipment.
Establish, verify, and document horizontal and vertical control networks, including benchmarks and TBMs.
Perform construction layout, as built verification, grade checks, and machine control support.
Maintain organized digital records including raw data, field notes, photos, daily reports, and backups.
Provide CAD ready deliverables, including control notes, calibrations, offsets, and documentation tied to project requirements.
Coordinate with engineers, architects, construction teams, and clients to ensure accurate interpretation of survey data.
Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and care of survey equipment and company vehicles.
Promote job site safety through daily awareness, hazard identification, and adherence to safety standards.
Train, mentor, and coach survey technicians on equipment use, surveying methods, safety, and documentation expectations.
Support advanced technologies such as UAV, LiDAR, and laser scanning when required.
Required Skills and Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum 5 years of experience in land surveying and construction layout.
Proven experience leading or assisting with field survey crews.
Valid North Carolina drivers license.
Ability to pass a background check, drug screen, and driving record check.
Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or holidays when required.
Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 50 lbs., bending, climbing, traversing rough terrain, and working in all weather conditions.
Willingness to occasionally travel overnight.
Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. with no sponsorship required.
Preferred Skills
CST (Certified Survey Technician) and/or SIT (Surveyor-in-Training) certification.
Degree in Civil Engineering Technology, Geomatics, or a related field.
Experience with Trimble surveying equipment and software.
Strong understanding of field to office workflows and coordination with CAD teams.
PLS license is a strong plus and commands a higher pay range.
Background working on large-scale residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects.