Survey Crew Chief

The OpportunitySME is seeking an experienced Survey Crew Chief to lead field survey operations supporting large site development/construction, transportation, energy, and industrial projects throughout Southeast Michigan.This is a hands-on field role for a seasoned professional who enjoys solving real-world construction challenges and being trusted to execute work correctly the first time. Our Survey Crew Chiefs are respected for their expertise, have clear authority in the field, and are responsible for communicating with licensed surveyors and office staff to ensure accuracy and alignment on project needs.What You'll Do:Field Leadership & ExecutionLead daily survey field operations as a 1 person crewDirect and mentor survey technicians; set expectations for productivity, quality, and safetyServe as SME's on-site representative with owners, contractors, and inspectorsMake real-time field decisions to resolve layout conflicts, project challenges, and site conditionsTechnical Survey WorkPerform and oversee:Construction staking and layoutBoundary, ALTA/NSPS, topographic, and as-built- surveysOperate robotic total stations, GPS/GNSS systems, and digital levelsInterpret construction drawings, plats, easements, and control networksDeliver clean, complete field data; no routine CAD production expectedSafety & QualityEnforce SME safety standards and job site protocolsMaintain survey equipment and assigned vehiclesIdentify scope gaps or risks early and communicate proactively What We're Looking For: Required Experience5+ years of progressive land surveying field experience. Proven experience functioning as a Survey Crew Chief, Party Chief, or senior field leader; or a strong Survey Technician ready to step into a lead roleStrong construction staking and site control backgroundProficient with modern survey equipment and data collectorsAbility to interpret plans, plats, and legal descriptionsValid driver's license; ability to travel throughout Northern OhioAbility to work outdoors in varying terrain, weather, and active construction environments, including walking extended distances on uneven ground and handling typical survey equipment, lifting/pushing/pulling/twisting, kneeling/standing/bending often.Preferred ExperienceIndustrial, transportation, or heavy civil project experienceSurveyor Intern (SI) certification or progress toward licensureUAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposureLarge site development or DOT experiencePay and BenefitsPaid overtime opportunitiesAnnual performance bonuses and profit sharingAnnual wage reviews and market adjustmentMedical, Dental, and Vision coverage after 30 daysSME pays 100% of employee medical insurance premiums401(k) with company match and annual profit sharingCompetitive PTO plus Volunteer Time OffTuition reimbursement and professional development supportField Role Specific PerksCompany vehicle providedTypical weekday schedule; overtime varies by projectExpected workload of approximately 45-50+ hours/week, while prioritizing work/life balanceMajority of work is local/regional (limited overnight travel)Modern survey equipment and strong technical supportStable backlog and consistent workloadAbout SMESME is an employee-owned consulting firm providing surveying, engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity, practical solutions, and trusting experienced professionals to lead in the field. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Created: 2026-04-16