Survey Crew Chief

SME•Plymouth, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

SME 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.

Requirements

5+ 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 role
Strong construction staking and site control background
Proficient with modern survey equipment and data collectors
Ability to interpret plans, plats, and legal descriptions
Valid driver’s license; ability to travel throughout Northern Ohio
Ability 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.

Nice To Haves

Industrial, transportation, or heavy civil project experience
Surveyor Intern (SI) certification or progress toward licensure
UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure
Large site development or DOT experience

Responsibilities

Lead daily survey field operations as a 1 person crew
Direct and mentor survey technicians; set expectations for productivity, quality, and safety
Serve as SME’s on-site representative with owners, contractors, and inspectors
Make real-time field decisions to resolve layout conflicts, project challenges, and site conditions
Perform and oversee: Construction staking and layout, Boundary, ALTA/NSPS, topographic, and as-built surveys
Operate robotic total stations, GPS/GNSS systems, and digital levels
Interpret construction drawings, plats, easements, and control networks
Deliver clean, complete field data; no routine CAD production expected
Enforce SME safety standards and job site protocols
Maintain survey equipment and assigned vehicles
Identify scope gaps or risks early and communicate proactively