Survey Crew Chief

Gdbgeospatial; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Wellness Benefits

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Long-term disability insurance

Life Insurance

Retirement plan

Tuition reimbursement

Cellphone stipend

Paid time off

Parental leave

Career development

Job summary

Surveying And Mapping, LLC (SAM) in Columbia, SC, is seeking an experienced Surveying Crew Chief to lead field crews on boundary, topo, and construction surveys.

You will plan data acquisition, review plans, and ensure field notes and reports are accurate. The role requires strong communication, readiness to travel, and the ability to work outdoors year-round in varied weather.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years of field surveying experience, crew chief preferred.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet company MVR standards.
• Experience with robotic total stations, GNSS, data radios, 3D laser scanners, levels, and tablets.
• Experience with Trimble equipment preferred.
• Strong computer, technical, and mathematical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Willing to travel and work outdoors year-round, up to 80 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Supervise a land survey crew during daily field operations.
• Determine efficient data acquisition plans for surveys from control to layout.
• Read and interpret construction drawings and project specs.
• Communicate daily with project managers, engineers, and technicians.
• Interact professionally with clients and landowners.
• Prepare daily reports, field notes, and paperwork.

Skills

Robotic total stations

GNSS receivers

Laser scanners

Data radios/modems

Automatic levels

Tablet PCs

Strong communication

Outdoor travel

Tools

Trimble equipment

Survey software

Job description

Who We Are

Founded in 1994, Surveying And Mapping, LLC (SAM) is a nationwide leader in geospatial and construction-phase solutions. With more than 50 offices and 1,600 professionals, we deliver the scale, technology, and expertise needed to support projects of any size.

By combining advanced technology, digital workflows, and decades of experience, we provide accurate, actionable data that helps clients move critical infrastructure projects forward with confidence. At SAM, you’ll be part of a team that values innovation, growth, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the built environment.

Your Impact at SAM

• Supervise a land survey crew for the daily field operations of gathering data for various surveys including boundary, topographic, and construction layout
• Determine most efficient plan of action for data acquisition for field surveys ranging from primary control through construction layout and as-built surveys, as needed
• Read and interpret construction drawings/plans and understand all aspects of the land survey project specifications and tolerances
• Communicate daily with project managers, engineers, and technicians regarding land survey project schedule and work progress
• Interact professionally with client representatives and landowners
• Anticipate, prevent, and solve problems within authority
• Collect/interpret survey data and document accurate field notes, sketches, and communications
• Document all phases of land survey operations neatly and orderly
• Prepare daily reports, time sheets, and other required paperwork
• Maintain land surveying vehicle and field equipment
• Follow company safety procedures, policies, and practices
• Other duties as assigned

What You Bring to SAM

• 5+ years of industry experience; prior crew chief experience preferred
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet company MVR standards
• Competent operating robotic total stations, GNSS receivers, data radios/modems, terrestrial 3D laser scanners, automatic and digital levels, tablet PCs
• Experience with Trimble equipment preferred
• Strong computer, technical, and mathematical skills
• Strong communication skills (listening, writing and verbal)
• Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-player attitude
• Able to work outdoors year-round in all types of weather conditions and environments and carry up to 80lbs
• Available to travel/stay out of town for work as needed

Our Perks

• Health and Wellness Benefits: BlueCross BlueShield health insurance coverage begins the month after your hire date, with dental plans available and free vision coverage for employees, company-paid premiums for Long-term disability/Life Insurance (with HSA + FSA plans), SAM Cares program focused on holistic well-being
• Financial Benefits: Employee Referral Rewards Program of $1K, $2,500 or $5K, Fidelity retirement plans with a 5% company match, tuition reimbursement, optional cellphone stipend
• Work-Life Balance:Paid time off including vacation/sick/holidays, parental leave to support families
• Professional Development:Customized career development plan for licensing and certifications, Project Manager Business Academy, CAD Training Program, Individual Development Plans/Career Check-Ins, SAM WINS - our initiative for women-focused leadership and development, Milestone Anniversary Recognition, SAMbassador mentorship program
• Perks and Discounts:Access to “Perks at Work” for discounts on wellness + travel + leisure and everyday purchases, company-sponsored events, free office snacks
• Culture and Awards/Achievements: SAM Named 2026 Top Workplace USA for the fourth Year; 2026 SAM Ranks No. 92 on ENR Top 500 Design Firms