ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chainman Surveyor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Redwood City, CA · Hybrid

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Pleasanton, CA · Hybrid

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

BKF

Survey Chainman (Union)

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$32.57 - $54.28/hr

The Survey Chainman in the NorCal Region to assists the Chief of Party and/or Instrumentman with field surveying activities by operating and handling modern measuring equipment, setting points ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsChainman Surveyor Jobs

Chainman Surveyor information

See salary details

$31.5K

$74.7K

$120.5K

How much do chainman surveyor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for chainman surveyor in the United States is $74,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chainman in surveying?

A chainman in surveying is a worker responsible for measuring distances using a surveyor's chain or tape. They assist in establishing boundaries, setting points, and recording measurements under the supervision of a surveyor, often working outdoors in various weather conditions. Accuracy and attention to detail are essential skills for this role.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

In surveying, specialized roles such as geospatial or GIS surveyors tend to earn higher salaries due to advanced skills and technology use. Experienced surveyors with certifications, such as Licensed Surveyor or those working in urban or infrastructure projects, also typically earn more. Salary can vary based on location, experience, and industry demand.

Is surveying going to be replaced by AI?

Surveying, including roles like chainman surveyor, relies on precise measurements and on-site judgment that AI cannot fully replace. While AI and automation tools can assist with data processing and mapping, human expertise remains essential for fieldwork, decision-making, and interpreting complex environments. Skills in using surveying equipment and understanding spatial data are still critical in the profession.

What is the difference between Chainman Surveyor vs Rodman Surveyor?

AspectChainman SurveyorRodman Surveyor
CertificationsTypically requires basic surveying certifications or trainingSimilar certifications, often overlapping with Chainman Surveyor
Work EnvironmentOutdoor construction sites, land surveying projectsOutdoor environments, assisting in field measurements
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, land development, civil engineeringConstruction, land surveying firms, civil projects

The main difference between a Chainman Surveyor and a Rodman Surveyor lies in their specific roles. Both positions often require similar certifications and work in outdoor environments on construction or land surveying projects. While the Chainman Surveyor may focus more on measuring and marking distances using chains, the Rodman Surveyor typically assists with setting up survey points and recording measurements. Both roles are essential in the surveying process and are often used interchangeably depending on the project or employer.

Is there a high demand for surveyors?

The demand for chainman surveyors remains steady due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and land development. Skilled surveyors with knowledge of modern tools like GPS and CAD are especially sought after, and employment opportunities are expected to grow in many regions.
More about Chainman Surveyor jobs
What cities are hiring for Chainman Surveyor jobs? Cities with the most Chainman Surveyor job openings:
What states have the most Chainman Surveyor jobs? States with the most job openings for Chainman Surveyor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chainman Surveyor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chainman Surveyor jobs are:
Chainman Surveyor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chainman Surveyor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $74,746 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Chainman and Party Chief

LEROY SURVEYORS AND ENGINEERS INC

Puyallup, WA

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Chainman (Survey Crew Member)
Location: Puyallup / Pierce County, WA
We are a well-established land surveying and engineering firm with over 75 years of service in the South Sound region. We are seeking a dependable Chainman to support our field survey crew in a variety of projects including boundary, topographic, and construction staking.
This is an entry-level position with the opportunity to learn the surveying profession from experienced crew members.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist the survey crew chief with daily field operations 
  • Carry, set up, and maintain surveying equipment (tripods, prisms, GPS units, etc.) 
  • Hold and mark points for measurements and staking 
  • Drive stakes, hubs, and lath as directed 
  • Clear brush and maintain line of sight as needed 
  • Maintain organization and care of equipment and vehicles 
  • Follow established safety practices and field procedures 
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Ability to perform physical outdoor work in varying weather and terrain 
  • Willingness to learn and take direction from crew leadership 
  • Basic math skills and attention to detail 
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation 
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to work as part of a team 
Preferred Skills:
  • Prior experience in land surveying, construction, or similar field work 
  • Familiarity with survey equipment (GPS, total stations, data collectors) 
  • Ability to read plans, maps, or construction drawings 
  • Mechanical aptitude and experience using hand tools
 
 
 
 
 
 
Job Title: Survey Field Party Chief
Location: Puyallup / Pierce County, WA
We are a well-established land surveying and engineering firm with over 75 years of service in the South Sound region. We are seeking an experienced and dependable Field Party Chief to lead a survey crew in a variety of projects including boundary, topographic, and construction staking.
This position is responsible for overseeing daily field operations, ensuring accuracy of work, and coordinating with office staff and clients as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and supervise a field survey crew on a day-to-day basis 
  • Plan and execute fieldwork for boundary, topographic, and construction staking projects 
  • Operate and oversee the use of survey equipment (total stations, GPS, data collectors, levels) 
  • Ensure accuracy, completeness, and quality of field data collection 
  • Maintain clear and organized field notes and electronic data 
  • Coordinate with project managers and office staff regarding project scope and progress 
  • Communicate professionally with clients, contractors, and the public when on-site 
  • Ensure proper care, calibration, and maintenance of equipment and vehicles 
  • Enforce company safety practices and field procedures 
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Proven experience as a survey crew chief or in a similar leadership role 
  • Strong working knowledge of land surveying principles and field procedures 
  • Proficiency with modern survey equipment and data collection software 
  • Ability to read and interpret plans, plats, and construction drawings 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record 
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions 
  • Dependable, self-motivated, and capable of leading a small crew 
Preferred Skills:
  • Licensure as a Land Surveyor in Training (LSIT) or progress toward licensure 
  • Experience with local (Pierce County) survey standards and practices 
  • Familiarity with coordinate geometry and basic field calculations 
  • Experience mentoring or training junior crew members 
  • Working knowledge of office software and survey data processing workflows