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Chainman Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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See Texas salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do chainman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for chainman in Texas is $27.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much did Chainmen get paid?

Chainmen typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the surveying project. They often work outdoors with tools like measuring tapes and levels and may require certification or training in surveying techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chainman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chainman, you need basic surveying knowledge, physical fitness, and attention to detail, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with survey equipment such as measuring tapes, theodolites, GPS devices, and sometimes CAD software is typical. Good communication, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills for working efficiently with surveyors and other crew members. These skills ensure accurate data collection and contribute to the successful completion of surveying projects in construction and land development.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

In surveying, civil surveyors and geomatics surveyors tend to earn higher salaries due to their specialized skills and larger project scopes. Experienced surveyors with advanced certifications, such as licensed land surveyors, and those working in urban or infrastructure projects generally have higher earning potential.

What is the difference between Chainman vs Surveyor?

AspectChainmanSurveyor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, plus surveying certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor environmentsOffice and outdoor fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, civil engineering firmsSurveying firms, engineering companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Chainman and a Surveyor is that a Chainman assists with measurements and basic tasks on-site, often with minimal certification, while a Surveyor has advanced training, certifications, and responsibilities including mapping and boundary determination. Both roles work closely in construction and surveying projects, but Surveyors hold more technical authority and expertise.

Will surveying be replaced by AI?

Chainmen and surveyors use AI and automation tools to improve accuracy and efficiency, but these technologies currently assist rather than replace human expertise. Skilled judgment, field experience, and knowledge of local conditions remain essential in surveying work. AI can handle data processing and mapping tasks, but human oversight is still critical for complex or nuanced projects.

What are Chainmen?

Chainmen, also known as chainpersons or survey assistants, are professionals who support land surveyors in the field. Their primary role is to assist with measuring distances and angles, marking survey points, and carrying equipment. Chainmen play a crucial part in ensuring that survey data is collected accurately and efficiently. They typically work outdoors and may use tools such as measuring tapes (chains), stakes, and GPS devices. The position often serves as an entry point into the surveying or construction industry.

What is the role of a chainman?

A chainman assists surveyors by measuring distances using a surveyor's chain or tape, helping to establish property boundaries and land features. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and need to follow safety protocols and instructions from the surveyor. Accuracy and attention to detail are important in this role.

What are some common challenges Chainmen face when working on large construction or surveying projects?

Chainmen often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, navigating difficult terrain, and maintaining precise measurements over extended distances. Working on large projects may require close coordination with surveyors and other team members, as well as the ability to quickly learn and use specialized equipment. Effective communication and attention to safety protocols are essential, as Chainmen regularly work near heavy machinery and in potentially hazardous environments.
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What job categories do people searching Chainman jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Chainman jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Chainman jobs in TX? For Chainman jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Chainman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chainman job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $58,025 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Rodman/Chainman (Surveryor)

Bechtel Construction Services

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

1. Reports directly to the Lead Surveyor (LS) or Area Lead Surveyor (ALS).
2.

Managing day-to-day field survey crew activities as per survey work request (SWR).
3. Ensuring that field survey work is performed with the highest regard possible for safety.


4. Ensuring that survey crew personnel (instrument operators and Road man) meet the minimum qualifications and performance.
5.

Managing the digital data work process, upload and download files.
6. Preparing and computing field stakeout data as per SWRs.


7. Collecting field survey data.
8.

Performing layouts in accordance with the requirements of the SWRs.
9. Serving as assistant Office Surveyor (OS) Civil 3D or CAD experience is a must.


10. Performing other field duties as required by LS or ALS including and not limited to substituting for the instrument operators and Road man during their absence.
11.

Performing double check of office calculations based on issue for construction prints or any lay out by others.
12. Land Surveyor BS degree or Associated Degree; can be substitute with experience.


13. Previous Bechtel experience is a plus.
14.

Marks points of measurement with elevation, station number, or other identifying mark.
15. Obtains data pertaining to angles, distances, elevations, points and contours.


16. Compiles notes, sketches and records of data obtained and work performed.
17.

Assists in establishing horizontal and vertical control for the project. Reviews design drawing for the purpose of confirming design data.
18.

Uses design drawings to perform calculations to establish values of commodities to be staked out.
19. Unloads materials, tools, equipment, and supplies.


20. Performs minor maintenance, calibration, or cleaning activities on tools and equipment.
21.

Adheres to all company and site safety procedures.

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