Survey Technician

JOB DESCRIPTION

1. Explain what the scope of the work/project is? Project Overview, deliverables (what is this person responsible for).

The contractor will serve as a Survey Crew Chief responsible for performing land survey work supporting distribution electric, gas, electric transmission, and substation projects. Responsibilities include conducting topographic surveys, construction surveys, and other land surveying activities using company-provided GPS, laser scanning, and survey equipment across multiple project locations.

2. What does a typical day look like?

The individual receives assignments from the office survey group, travels to project sites, and independently performs field survey work. Most of the day is spent in the field with limited office time. Travel to various project locations is common.

6. Describe work environment / team culture (supportive/collaborative, teamwork or individual contributor)?

The work is highly independent and field based. The culture is supportive and collaborative, with frequent interaction across multiple project teams while maintaining ownership of assigned survey activities.

7. Can you elaborate on any potential risks or safety considerations associated with this role, particularly if the responsibilities extend beyond a standard desk or office environment?

This is a field-based position involving travel to active project sites. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors, traveling regularly, driving company vehicles, operating survey equipment, working extended days when needed, and occasionally staying overnight near project locations. Standard field safety practices will apply.

9. What are the work hours/shift (standard, evening, full time/part time, OT required, on-call for 24/7 operation)?

Standard schedule is Monday through Friday. Typical work weeks range from 40 to 50 hours with overtime commonly required. Average overtime is approximately 10 hours per week. Some longer days should be expected

1. What are the top 3-5 skills and qualifications (technology/application/software, etc.) required?

Land surveying experience.

Proficiency with survey GPS equipment.

Experience using laser scanners.

Experience with Trimble survey equipment and data collectors.

Strong technology and computer skills.

Ability to travel frequently and work in field environments

2. What non-technical skills are necessary (i.e., such as communication, problem solving, team player)?

Ability to work independently.

Strong problem-solving skills.

Dependability and self-motivation.

Adaptability to travel and longer workdays.

Strong communication skills.

3. Ideal candidate background and how many years required?

The ideal candidate has approximately 10 years of land surveying experience. However, candidates with 4 to 5 years of solid, relevant experience will also be considered. The hiring manager is open to both less experienced candidates with growth potential and highly experienced professionals.

4. Are there any specific companies you like to see on a candidate's resume?

No specific companies were identified.

5. Are there any certifications that the candidate must possess?

A two-year Surveying Technology or Civil Engineering Technician educational background is preferred but not required if the candidate possesses strong relevant experience.

1. What is the location of the contract assignment (Full time onsite, hybrid – percent of time on site/home or, are you open to fully remote)? If the resource is expected to be onsite, can you confirm if the resource can park on Xcel property/in the ramp?

Location is flexible based on the selected candidate. Preferred areas include Minneapolis, Hudson, WI, and Eau Claire, WI, as well as other nearby Xcel service center locations. The position is primarily field-based. Company vehicles and survey equipment will be provided.


Responsible for survey crew field activities including plan and profile surveys, topographic surveys, boundary surveys, and construction staking. Respond to survey requests from various departments and gather accurate data points on property lines, land contours and existing facilities. This position is the office to field liaison between Engineering, Design, and Survey. Accountable for the actual field surveying activities. Record all survey data via electronic data collectors in the field, which can be downloaded to computers in the office. Research land records and identify/resolve physical problems in the field expediently. Download survey points from field data collectors to office computers. Analyze data to ensure integrity of feature codes and line strings. Assist office personnel in completing necessary final documents and/or drawings. Communicate with private land survey companies, engineering firms, government agencies, and the general public. Maintain strong understanding of survey procedures along with staying current on new technologies & instrumentation.