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Entry Level Surveyor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

... entry level position would involve assignments of limited scope and complexity; work supervised in ... surveyors, and utility locators as needed. * Identifying ways to improve our field data collection ...

City of Banning, CA

Assistant Planner

Banning, CA · On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

Under close supervision, this entry-level position in the professional Planner series assists in ... Conducts field surveys, site inspections, and investigations as needed. * Compiles and interprets ...

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA

... entry level position would involve assignments of limited scope and complexity; work supervised in ... surveyors, and utility locators as needed. * Identifying ways to improve our field data collection ...

TYPSA INC

Environmental Planner I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

... resource surveys for a variety of projects within the transportation, rail, transit, renewables ... plus. * Entry Level role. Three (3) years of experience preparing CEQA/NEPA documents for ...

City of Banning

Assistant Planner

Banning, CA

$68K - $92K/yr

Under close supervision, this entry-level position in the professional Planner series assists in ... Conducts field surveys, site inspections, and investigations as needed. Compiles and interprets ...

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All JobsSurveyor JobsEntry Level Surveyor JobsEntry Level Surveyor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Surveyor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$32.9K

$78K

$125.7K

How much do entry level surveyor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level surveyor in Riverside, CA is $77,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,800.00 and $95,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Surveyor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Surveyor, you generally need a background in geomatics, civil engineering, or a related field, along with basic math and spatial reasoning skills. Familiarity with GPS equipment, total stations, CAD software, and sometimes a surveying technician certification is valuable. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you accurately collect and convey data on-site and to stakeholders. These skills are crucial to ensuring precise measurements and reliable project outcomes in construction, land development, and mapping.

What is the difference between Entry Level Surveyor vs Junior Surveyor?

AspectEntry Level SurveyorJunior Surveyor
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may have an associate degreeHigh school diploma; pursuing or completed basic surveying certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site surveying, data collection, basic measurementsAssisting senior surveyors, data recording, site inspections
Industry UsageCommonly used in construction, land development projectsOften used interchangeably, focusing on entry-level support roles

The Entry Level Surveyor and Junior Surveyor roles are similar, often overlapping in credentials and work environment. Both positions serve as foundational roles in surveying teams, with the main difference being the specific job title used by employers. Typically, both roles involve assisting with measurements, data collection, and site work, making them suitable for individuals starting their surveying careers.

How much do land surveyors make starting out?

Entry-level land surveyors typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location and employer. Starting salaries may increase with relevant certifications, such as a surveyor license, and experience with surveying tools like total stations and GPS equipment.

What does an entry level surveyor do?

An entry level surveyor assists in measuring and mapping land, structures, and boundaries using tools like total stations and GPS equipment. They support senior surveyors in data collection, site analysis, and preparing survey reports, often working outdoors in various weather conditions and requiring attention to detail and basic knowledge of surveying software.

Is AI going to replace surveyors?

AI is unlikely to fully replace surveyors, as the role requires on-site measurements, interpretation of complex environments, and professional judgment. Instead, AI tools are used to assist surveyors by automating data collection and processing, allowing them to focus on analysis and decision-making. Human expertise remains essential for accuracy, problem-solving, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

How to start a career in land surveying?

To start a career as an entry-level surveyor, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and pursue post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and obtaining relevant certifications, like a state surveyor license, can improve job prospects. Familiarity with surveying tools and software, such as total stations and GIS, is also beneficial.

What are typical challenges faced by entry level surveyors during their first year on the job?

Entry level surveyors often face challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in various weather conditions, learning to use specialized surveying equipment accurately, and interpreting complex site plans or maps. Additionally, they must quickly develop strong teamwork and communication skills, as they frequently collaborate with engineers, construction crews, and senior surveyors. Being proactive in asking questions and seeking feedback can help new surveyors overcome initial learning curves and build confidence in their technical abilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Surveyor jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Surveyor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Surveyor jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Surveyor jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Surveyor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Surveyor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Surveyor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Surveyor job openings:
Entry Level Surveyor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surveyor job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,980 per year, or $37.5 per hour.
Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

WSP

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description


This Opportunity
WSP is seeking an Associate Geotechnical Engineer to work out of our Southern California region (Irvine, San Diego and Los Angeles) The entry level position would involve assignments of limited scope and complexity; work supervised in detail; may give guidance to junior professionals or more junior technician staff; generally more than two years experience post Bachelor's degree or equivalent combinations of graduate level degree and experience.
Candidate is expected to have basic orientation, training and experience in the nature of the consulting business, i.e., how to be a consultant, how to write proposals, reports, client correspondence and internal documents, and how to gain familiarity with the standard procedures and practices associated with their discipline. Typical project assignments include collecting or compiling data, either in the field or from published and unpublished materials, entering data into and extracting data from standard computer programs, and researching the more complex regulatory or technical requirements. Candidate will be required to travel occasionally to field assignments. All work performed by the candidate will be under the supervision of the project manager or senior staff member.
Your Impact
  • Plan and support subsurface explorations (e.g., borings, test pits, CPTs) and coordinate with drillers, surveyors, and utility locators as needed.
  • Identifying ways to improve our field data collection or reporting templates to make our team more efficient and competitive.
  • Log soil and rock in the field; document groundwater, sampling, and drilling conditions; and maintain organized field notes and photo records.
  • Coordinate laboratory testing programs (index, strength, consolidation, corrosion, etc.) and review results for completeness and reasonableness.
  • Perform engineering calculations and analyses (e.g., bearing capacity, settlement, lateral earth pressures, slope stability screening, and seismic site considerations) using accepted methods and software tools.
  • Peer-reviewing the work of junior staff and technicians to ensure our deliverables are error-free and professionally presented.
  • Develop preliminary and final geotechnical recommendations for foundations, slabs, earthwork, excavations, temporary support, and earth retention systems, as applicable to the project.
  • Prepare geotechnical reports, memoranda, figures, and tables that clearly communicate findings, assumptions, and recommendations.
  • Support construction-phase services such as grading/excavation observations, footing subgrade evaluations, pile installation monitoring support, and documentation of nonconformance and corrective actions.
  • Apply QA/QC practices to calculations and deliverables; follow internal standards, checklists, and peer review processes.
  • Communicate with project managers, design team members, contractors, and clients to address technical questions and field issues in a timely manner.
  • Follow health, safety, and environmental requirements; help identify hazards and implement appropriate controls during field activities.
  • Track assigned tasks, budgets, and schedules; provide status updates and proactively raise risks or scope changes.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, or closely related discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • 1 to 3 years of relevant post education experience.
  • Experience with desktop and industry-specific software (e.g., MSOffice, AutoCAD, and MSProject) required.
  • Hands on knowledge on the use of field equipment.
  • Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to establish effective internal and external working relationships.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with on-site contractors, supervisor or project manager regarding work assignments required.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Frequent local travel and occasional out-of-town travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Engineer in Training Certification.
  • Professional Engineer licensure.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.
    WSP Benefits:
    WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
    Compensation:
    Expected Salary (all locations): $81,000 - $101,500
    WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.
    #LI-AB2

About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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