The Survey Crew Chief is a senior field leader responsible for delivering complex surveying projects with precision and efficiency. This role combines advanced expertise in surveying techniques, UAV operations, and geospatial data analysis to produce high-quality results. The Survey Crew Chief oversees crew operations, ensures data integrity, and coordinates with office teams to keep projects moving forward. Through technical excellence and strong leadership, this role helps deliver innovative, high-impact work that defines Dudek.

Responsibilities

Independently performs highly complex field surveys, including boundary, topographic, construction staking, and specialized surveys.
Operates advanced surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS receivers, UAVs (drones), lidar sensors, and magnetometers.
Plans and executes aerial imagery and remote sensing data collection using UAVs, ensuring compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and Dudek safety protocols.
Conducts lidar and magnetometer surveys, integrating results with other geospatial data.
Analyzes survey data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with industry standards.
Analyzes and processes survey data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
Implements quality control procedures for survey practices and geospatial data management.
Identifies and corrects errors or inconsistencies in field and digital survey data.
Assists in planning and coordinating survey projects, ensuring efficient resource allocation, scheduling, and workflow management.
Works closely with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure survey deliverables meet project requirements.
Communicates survey findings and technical insights with clients, regulatory agencies, and internal teams.
Uses CAD software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, or similar) to create detailed maps, plans, and technical drawings based on survey data.
Develops and refines geospatial datasets, reports, and project documentation to meet client and regulatory needs.
Ensures all deliverables are technically sound, accurate, and compliant with industry standards.
Provides guidance, training, and mentorship to junior survey technicians on survey techniques, data collection, and equipment operation.
Promotes a culture of continuous learning by sharing best practices and emerging technologies.
Supports team development through knowledge-sharing, technical training, and leadership.

Requirements

Experience: 7+ years’ experience in land surveying, mapping, or geospatial data collection; surveying; geographic information systems (GIS); or related fieldwork (internships or coursework may be considered).
Education: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Geography, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and rough terrain.
Ability to travel to project sites and work extended hours as needed.
Valid driver’s license required.

Nice to have

Advanced proficiency in total stations, GPS receivers, UAVs, lidar sensors, and other survey instruments.
Strong ability to work with CAD software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, Trimble Business Center, or similar).
Extensive knowledge of survey methodologies, remote sensing, and geospatial data analysis.
FAA Part 107 UAV Operator License required.
Land Surveyor-in-Training (LSIT) certification preferred.
Experience leading medium to large surveying projects with minimal oversight.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage project budgets, schedules, and deliverables.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting and team coordination.