Data Prep Technician

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc in Kansas City seeks a Civil Construction CAD / Data Prep Specialist to support heavy civil projects. The role involves creating accurate 3D models and GPS files, translating civil plans into usable field data.

Ideal candidates will have 2+ years in civil CAD and experience with Trimble Business Center. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively with teams are essential. This position supports crucial infrastructure work across Missouri.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in civil CAD or construction data prep (preferred).
• Background in surveying or field construction is highly valued.
• Strong math skills in geometry and slopes.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain 3D surface models and construction files.
• Prepare survey staking files for field crews.
• Convert civil engineering plans into CAD models.
• Perform quality control on models and files.

Skills

Civil construction and grading concepts

3D CAD modeling

GPS machine control workflows

Reading civil engineering plans

Trimble Business Center

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Time management

Education

Associate degree in Engineering Technology or related field

Tools

Trimble Business Center

Civil 3D

CAD software

Job description

Job Summary

As a Civil Construction CAD / Data Prep Specialist, you’ll support heavy civil and infrastructure projects by producing accurate 3D construction models, GPS machine control files, and survey staking data. This role works closely with Project Managers, Survey and Construction teams to translate civil plans into buildable, field‑ready models. This is an office‑based position focused on construction data preparation—not architectural drafting—using modern 3D CAD and GPS technologies to support roads, grading, utilities, parking lots, and site development projects. Projects include highways, public infrastructure, industrial and commercial sites, distribution centers, and large‑scale civil construction work.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Build and maintain 3D surface models, terrain models, and construction files for GPS- and Total Station–controlled equipment.
• Prepare survey staking files and construction data for field crews.
• Convert civil engineering plans into accurate, constructible CAD models.
• Perform grade checks, surface reviews, and quality control on models and files.
• Collaborate with Survey, Project Managers, and Engineers to resolve conflicts.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of civil construction and grading concepts.
• Experience with 3D CAD modeling for construction purposes.
• Working knowledge of GPS machine control and survey workflows.
• Ability to read and interpret civil engineering and construction plans.
• Familiarity with Trimble Business Center (TBC) and/or Civil 3D (preferred).
• Attention to detail with a strong focus on accuracy.
• Ability to check models and drawings for compliance with plans and specifications.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
• Organized, dependable, and able to manage priorities independently.
• Willingness to learn and grow within a construction‑focused CAD role.
• Ability to work extended hours when workload requires.

Education & Experience

• 2+ years of experience in civil CAD, construction data prep, or related field (preferred).
• Background in surveying or field construction is highly valued.
• Experience with Trimble Business Center preferred (training provided for strong CAD candidates).
• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Drafting, or similar field preferred—or equivalent experience.
• Strong math skills (geometry, measurements, grades, slopes).
• Proficiency with CAD software and general computer applications.

NICE TO HAVE

• Prior experience transitioning from field surveying to office‑based CAD.
• Familiarity with GPS‑controlled equipment workflows.
• Experience supporting heavy civil or site construction projects.

Why This Role Matters

This role is critical in ensuring construction crews receive accurate, reliable data to build projects safely and efficiently. You’ll be directly supporting field success while working with modern tools and experienced construction professionals.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)