Survey Party Chief

KWC Engineers; Corona (CA); On-site; USD 68,880 - 82,656; Full time

Job summary

KWC Engineers is looking for a Survey Party Chief in Corona, California. This role will involve leading field survey crews on various projects while ensuring accuracy and efficiency in survey work.

The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 4 years of experience and be adept in operating Trimble Total Stations and GPS equipment, along with a solid foundation in mathematics. A competitive pay range of $50.00 – $60.00 per hour is offered based on experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of proven experience as a Survey Party Chief.
• Strong background in advanced mathematical calculations.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Lead field survey crews in conducting various surveys.
• Review construction plans and prepare field packages.
• Direct and coordinate crew activities for accurate survey work.

Skills

Trimble Total Stations operation

GPS equipment proficiency

AutoCAD skills

Problem-solving

Team-building

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

2 years of college preferred

Tools

Trimble Total Stations

GPS equipment

AutoCAD

Job description

KWC Engineers is a premier professional services firm delivering innovative, high-quality Civil Engineering, Planning, Surveying, and construction support to public and private sector clients throughout Southern California. We thrive on a collaborative culture dedicated to leadership development, career progression, and the growth of our people.

About the Role

We are seeking a Survey Party Chief to work under the direction of our Survey Manager, leading and supervising field survey crews across diverse design, mapping, and construction projects. If you are an experienced crew leader who commands accuracy, drives efficiency, and enjoys mentoring a field team, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Lead field survey crews in conducting boundary traverses, location surveys, level runs, retracement surveys, and civil improvement staking for residential, commercial, and public works projects.
• Direct and coordinate crew activities to ensure accurate and timely survey work.
• Expertly operate Trimble Total Stations and GPS equipment, perform precise field calculations, and maintain clear, well‑written notes documenting all survey phases.
• Review construction plans, conduct research, and prepare field packages (materials/documents) prior to heading out to the site.
• Utilize computer survey programs, AutoCAD, and advanced field survey engineering methods.
• Drive independent decisions on work methods, manage project time against budgets, and assist in staff selection, training, and mentorship.
• Act as a key point of contact, communicating effectively with contractors, clients, site personnel, and internal management.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of proven experience as a Survey Party Chief.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required; 2 years of college preferred.
• Strong background in advanced mathematical calculations (algebra and trigonometry), problem‑solving, and team‑building.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record and required auto liability insurance.
• Ability to safely navigate survey vehicles across rough or uneven terrain.

Required Skills

• Expertise in operating Trimble Total Stations and GPS equipment.
• Proficient in AutoCAD and computer survey programs.
• Strong problem‑solving and team‑building skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in mentoring and training field teams.
• Familiarity with advanced field survey engineering methods.

Pay range and compensation package

This full‑time, non‑exempt position offers a competitive hourly range of $50.00 – $60.00, commensurate with experience and licensure.

Equal Opportunity Statement

KWC is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with KWC is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.