Survey Crew Chief/Survey Party Chief

Gdbgeospatial; Elkhart (IN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Training and development

Cellphone stipend

Job summary

Surveying And Mapping, LLC (SAM) is seeking a Survey Crew Chief to lead daily field operations for a land surveying crew. You will ensure safety, accuracy, and efficiency while coordinating with project staff and clients.

The role requires technical surveying knowledge, leadership, and the ability to travel as needed. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, along with experience with survey equipment and field data management.

Qualifications

• Leadership and field-operations management experience.
• Strong communication and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to travel for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee field surveys — including primary control, construction layout, and as-built surveys — using efficient data acquisition methods.
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, including sketches, daily reports, timesheets, and other required documentation.
• Communicate regularly with Project Surveyors, technicians, and other team members to align with project schedules and monitor progress.
• Represent SAM professionally when interacting with clients, landowners, and other stakeholders.
• Read and interpret construction drawings and project specifications to ensure all work meets tolerances and standards.
• Ensure vehicles, instruments, and field equipment are properly maintained, calibrated, and operational.
• Support project and team success by performing additional duties as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Organization

Field operations

Travel ability

Tools

Total stations

GNSS receivers

Data collectors

Tablet PCs

Trimble equipment

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. SAM streamlines project delivery through a single, coordinated team, offering in-house capabilities across land surveying, aerial mapping, subsurface utility engineering (SUE), utility coordination (UC), GIS, BIM, and construction engineering inspection (CEI).

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

The Survey Crew Chief manages the daily field operations of a land survey crew, ensuring all work is performed safely, efficiently, and accurately. This role requires technical expertise, strong leadership, and a commitment to quality and client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee field surveys — including primary control, construction layout, and as-built surveys — using the most efficient methods for data acquisition

• Maintain accurate records of work performed, including sketches, daily reports, timesheets, and other required documentation

• Communicate regularly with Project Surveyors, technicians, and other team members to align with project schedules and monitor progress

• Represent SAM professionally when interacting with clients, landowners, and other stakeholders

• Read and interpret construction drawings and project specifications to ensure all work meets required tolerances and standards

• Ensure vehicles, instruments, and field equipment are properly maintained, calibrated, and operational

• Support project and team success by performing additional duties as needed

This role is ideal for individuals with strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage field operations in a fast-paced environment.

What You Bring to SAM

• Previous industry experience, prior crew chief experience
• Competent operating total stations, GNSS receivers, data collectors, and tablet PCs
• Experience with Trimble equipment is preferred
• Strong computer and technical skills
• Strong communication skills (listening, writing and verbal)
• Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-player attitude
• Ability to travel for extended periods of time
• Ability to work in all-weather climates
• Ability to walk long distances through a variety of terrains and carry up to 80lbs

• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company MVR standards.

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