Principal Land Surveyor

The Survey Association; Birmingham, Leeds; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading surveying consultancy in Birmingham is looking for a Principal Land Surveyor to deliver major projects and provide technical support to the Geomatics team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in geomatics, excellent communication skills, and a bachelor's degree in a related field. Responsibilities include project management, quality assurance, and mentoring junior staff. This role offers the opportunity for professional development and involvement in innovative surveying techniques.

Benefits

Professional development support

Mentoring schemes

Qualifications

• Strong technical delivery and advice in geomatics.
• Experience in leadership and project management.
• Proficient in safety and compliance in surveying.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery on major survey projects.
• Manage and mentor junior team members.
• Ensure quality compliance with industry standards.

Skills

Communication skills

Problem analysis

Commercial awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Geomatics, Surveying, Geography, GIS, or related discipline

Chartered in CICES or RICS or working towards

Tools

AutoCAD

GIS platforms

Total Stations

Laser scanners

UAVs

Job description

Job opportunity with Freedom Surveys & Inspections

Principal Land Surveyor

Job Description

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE: To provide technical delivery, advice and support to the Geomatics (Surveying & Inspections) team, as appropriate, and support the Senior Partner. Leading on delivery across major survey projects and providing advice to Senior Land Surveyors in management of their projects. Line management responsibilities of staff and playing a key role in the development of new and repeat business.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Lead on delivery of projects to clients including on major frameworks and complex projects
• Drive health and safety performance and SHEQ compliance within the geomatics function
• Deliver accurate and high-quality geospatial services, including LiDAR, and UAV surveys, spatial data management, and GIS analysis
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and industry standards
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, planning, environmental, and consenting to align geomatics deliverables with overall project objectives
• Develop and/or mentor junior members of staff
• Programme work activities and delegate, where appropriate
• Support on bids and tenders
• Ensure quality delivery to programme and cost
• Strategic communication with clients and management

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL

• Technical and Professional knowledge and experience associated with the role
• Good communication skills, both written and oral at all levels of hierarchy
• Able to analyse problems and identify solutions
• Commercial awareness

EXPERIENCE DESIRABLE

• Experience in Energy, Highways and Rail sectors
• Line management experience

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS

Experience and qualifications normally associated with successful performance of role. Please specify if any qualifications or professional memberships are essential, e.g. for contractual or legal reasons.

QUALIFICATIONS & PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS – ESSENTIAL

• Chartered in CICES or RICS or working towards
• Bachelor’s degree in Geomatics, Surveying, Geography, GIS, or a related discipline (QCF Level 6 or equivalent)

QUALIFICATIONS & PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS – DESIRABLE

• Masters Degree in relevant discipline

TRAINING

Refer to Training Matrix

Notes

• Travel Requirements: Occasional travel may be required to project sites or client meetings. A full UK driving licence is essential.
• Equipment Use: Familiarity with a wide range of surveying tools and software is expected, including GNSS, Total Stations, laser scanners, UAVs, and software such as AutoCAD, n4ce, and GIS platforms.
• Flexibility: The role may require occasional evening or weekend work to meet project deadlines or access restricted sites.
• Team Environment: This is a senior leadership role within the Geomatics team. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to team culture, knowledge sharing, and staff mentoring.
• Innovation: A proactive approach to adopting emerging technologies and improving workflows is encouraged. Experience with BIM integration, mobile mapping, or AI-assisted data processing is highly valued.
• Health & Safety: Adherence to and promotion of the company’s SHEQ procedures is mandatory. The role includes a responsibility to report near misses and actively participate in toolbox talks and audits.
• Professional Development: The company supports continued professional development through CPD programs, mentorship schemes, and support for chartership applications.