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Professional Land Surveyor
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Scorecard
Based on Massachusetts data
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What they do
A Surveyor measures the surface of the Earth and collects data used to make maps, set boundaries, and determine the shape and contour of sections of land. Uses global positioning system (GPS) and global information system (GIS) technology to make measurements. May specialize in measurements to determine airspace boundaries; may conduct marine or hydrographic surveys to measure bodies of water and determine shorelines and water flow and depth.
$98,190 / year median in Massachusetts
+13% projected growth
Job Description
Key ResponsibilitiesLead and perform boundary surveys, stakeouts, ALTA/NSPS surveys, and prepare certified survey plans and legal descriptions.
Conduct deed research, title and boundary analysis, and coordinate with legal counsel and land court when necessary.
Manage and execute topographic, existing conditions, subdivision, condominium and coastal surveys using GNSS, robotic total stations, UAVs, and laser scanning/reality capture technologies.
Prepare accurate survey deliverables including plats, recordable maps, ALTA surveys, construction stakeout plans, and existing conditions plans using Civil 3D and Carlson software.
Oversee project budgets, schedules, proposals, permitting coordination (including environmental permitting), and client communications.
Implement and enforce QA/QC procedures to ensure deliverable accuracy and compliance with NSPS/State standards and boundary law.
Mentor and train junior survey staff and technicians; review field notes, calculations, and plans for technical accuracy.
Collaborate with civil engineers, planners, contractors, and clients to integrate survey data into design and construction workflows.
Participate in business development activities including proposal preparation, client meetings, and scope development to grow survey services.
Coordinate multidisciplinary teams on complex projects such as coastal assessments, municipal projects, and large-scale land development.
Operate and maintain advanced survey equipment (GNSS, robotics, UAVs, laser scanners) and ensure appropriate data management and recordkeeping.
QualificationsLicensed Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) in MA or ability to obtain reciprocity; strong knowledge of boundary law and survey standards (ALTA/NSPS).Minimum 7+ years of progressive land surveying experience with demonstrated boundary and deed research expertise.
Proven experience with boundary analysis, land court procedures, and preparation of recordable plats, legal descriptions, and survey plans.
Proficiency with Civil 3D and Carlson (or equivalent CAD/survey software) for drafting and delivering survey products.
Experience with GNSS surveying, robotic total stations, UAV photogrammetry, laser scanning, and reality capture workflows.
Experience preparing and managing
ALTA/NSPS
surveys, topographic surveys, subdivision plats, condominium plans, and existing conditions plans.Strong project management skills including budgeting, scheduling, proposal development, permitting coordination, and client relationship management.
Demonstrated QA/QC discipline and attention to detail in field methods, calculations, and plan reviews.
Ability to mentor, train, and lead survey crews; excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Familiarity with civil engineering concepts, construction stakeout, and coordination with design/construction teams.
Experience with coastal projects, municipal permitting, environmental permitting or similar regulatory processes is desirable.
Business development experience and the ability to identify new opportunities and contribute to proposals is a plus.
Willingness to travel to job sites, work outdoors in varying conditions, and perform fieldwork as required.
BenefitsCompetitive Salary - Based on ExperiencePerformance bonusHealth and Dental Insurance401K plan with Company Contributions529 Plan - company sponsoredPTO and Flexible work schedules