What are the responsibilities and job description for the Survey Party Chief (Field-Lead | Drafting Experience Preferred) position at Parker Design Group of Richmond, Inc.?
Parker Design Group of Richmond, Inc. is seeking an experienced Survey Party Chief to lead field crews on a wide range of land surveying projects. This is a primarily field-based role with the opportunity for meaningful involvement in office drafting and production, making it an ideal fit for a motivated professional who thrives in the field but also brings technical drafting capability to the table.
Position Overview:
The Party Chief will direct field survey crews, operate and maintain survey instrumentation, and ensure quality data collection across boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS, and construction staking assignments. This position is approximately 75% field operations and 25% office drafting support. Candidates with CAD/survey software experience will be given strong preference.
Preferred Qualifications:
- 5 years of land surveying experience with at least 2 years in a crew lead or party chief role
- Proficiency operating total stations, GPS/GNSS equipment, and data collectors
- Experience with survey drafting and processing software (Carlson, Civil 3D, Trimble Business Center, or similar)
- Strong working knowledge of boundary principles, legal descriptions, and plat review
- Ability to read and interpret construction plans and site documents
- Effective communication and crew management skills
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
- Survey licensure (RLS or LSIT) a plus but not required
Primary Responsibilities (Field – ~75%):
- Lead and direct field survey crews on boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS, and construction staking projects
- Operate and maintain total stations, GPS/GNSS equipment, and related instrumentation
- Set up and run control networks; verify and troubleshoot field data quality
- Coordinate daily with project managers on schedule, scope, and field conditions
- Ensure safe work practices and compliance with site-specific requirements
Secondary Responsibilities (Office – ~25%):
- Draft survey plats, topographic maps, and related deliverables using CAD/survey software
- Process and adjust field data; prepare calculations and project documentation
- Assist with deed research and boundary analysis under direction of the licensed surveyor
- Support coordination with clients and subconsultants as needed
Salary : $26 - $32