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Principal Surveyor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a senior member of our team, you'll oversee complex survey projects from proposal through final deliverables while working closely with our Principal Surveyor, project managers, engineers, and ...

Coordinate with Principal Surveyor for evaluation of staffing, equipment, project, and marketing efforts * Assisting with preparing project budget estimates and contracts * Attend planning board or ...

Senior Land Surveyor

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

As a senior member of our team, you'll oversee complex survey projects from proposal through final deliverables while working closely with our Principal Surveyor, project managers, engineers, and ...

... Principal Surveyor. - Prepares technically accurate and timely reports of inspections and surveys. 3. File Maintenance: - Maintains survey files in an orderly and up-to-date manner within the ...

Principal Land Surveyor Pleasanton, CA | Full-Time Salary: $160,000-$225,000 DOE + Annual Bonus Lead our Bay Area surveying practice and help shape the future of R.E.Y. Engineers. R.E.Y. Engineers is ...

Principal Land Surveyor

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$160K - $225K/yr

Principal Land Surveyor Pleasanton, CA | Full-Time Salary: $160,000-$225,000 DOE + Annual Bonus Lead our Bay Area surveying practice and help shape the future of R.E.Y. Engineers. R.E.Y. Engineers is ...

Coordinate with the Principal Surveyor for evaluation of staffing, equipment, project, and marketing efforts What You Bring: * High School diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree preferred ...

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Principal Survey Analyst

Riverside, CA · On-site

$45 - $58.75/hr

As an Principal Survey Analyst in our Riverside office's Land Survey department, you will have an ... Is a registered land surveyor (PLS) in the state of CA or ability to obtain CA PLS within one year ...

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Principal Surveyor information

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$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal surveyor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal surveyor in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal surveyor?

Principal Surveyors are highly experienced professionals responsible for overseeing and managing surveying projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and maintaining high standards of accuracy and safety. They often lead teams of surveyors, provide technical guidance, and coordinate with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies. Their role is critical in sectors such as construction, maritime, and land development, where their expertise ensures project integrity and quality. Principal Surveyors also play a key role in training junior staff and implementing best practices within their organization.

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

To thrive as a Principal Surveyor, you need deep expertise in land or building surveying, strong analytical skills, and relevant qualifications such as a degree in surveying or membership in a professional body like RICS. Proficiency with surveying software (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS), measurement tools, and project management systems is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills help manage teams and liaise effectively with clients and stakeholders. These competencies ensure accurate project delivery, regulatory compliance, and the successful management of complex surveying projects.

What is the difference between Principal Surveyor vs Chartered Surveyor?

AspectPrincipal SurveyorChartered Surveyor
CredentialsTypically holds a Chartered status (e.g., MRICS, FRICS)Holds a Chartered status (e.g., MRICS, FRICS)
Work EnvironmentLeads surveying projects, manages teams, oversees large-scale assessmentsPerforms surveying tasks, provides expert advice, and conducts inspections
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in consulting firms, large property companies, and construction firmsCommon across real estate, construction, and infrastructure sectors

The main difference is that a Principal Surveyor often holds a Chartered status and leads projects and teams, while a Chartered Surveyor is a professional with recognized credentials performing surveying tasks. Both roles are integral in the industry, but the Principal Surveyor typically has more managerial responsibilities and oversees larger projects.

How does a principal surveyor typically interact with project stakeholders, and what communication challenges might arise?

As a Principal Surveyor, you will regularly liaise with clients, contractors, consultants, and regulatory bodies to ensure project specifications and standards are met. One common challenge is balancing the diverse expectations and technical requirements of each stakeholder while maintaining clear and consistent communication. Effective negotiation and problem-solving skills are essential, as you may need to resolve disputes or clarify complex technical information. Building strong professional relationships and adapting your communication style to different audiences are key to success in this role.
More about Principal Surveyor jobs
What states have the most Principal Surveyor jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Surveyor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Principal Surveyor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Principal Surveyor or above

American Bureau of Shipping

Oakland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


American Bureau Of Shipping rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 481 rated business services


Job description


The Principal Surveyor's primary role is to directly perform survey activities in accordance with ABS Rules, Guides, and all statutory requirements; while acting as a peer leader, knowledge resource, coach, and overall survey process expert at the port, station, or field site level. This position also supports the "In Charge" supervisor in planning and managing survey activities and the training, guidance, and development of more junior surveyors.
What You Will Do:
  • Directly execute and support safe and efficient survey activities to meet business outcomes related to service delivery, labor/productivity, budget, quality, policy, compliance, training, development, and safety.
  • Execute and safely support the Survey & Certification Core Process as an individual contributor and peer leader/resource.
  • Acts as a professional specialist for the organization in applying related rules, regulations, requirements, concepts, principles, and processes.
  • Assist the "In Charge" surveyor in planning, scheduling, and coordinating the various phases of surveying activities and monitor the quality-of-service delivery, including reviews of survey reports.
  • Assists in recommending short- and long-term manpower planning needs for qualified, trained survey staff based on the projected business.
  • Promote a culture of safety and safe working conditions.
  • Maintain awareness of changes and development in service delivery or technical issues affecting present and potential customers and communicate this information promptly to the appropriate supervisory/management level.
  • Support the performance and development of junior surveyors through direct coaching, mentorship, training, monitoring, and performance feedback.
  • Promotes the services and capabilities of ABS to present and potential customers through survey operational activities and interaction.
  • Maintain relationships with local Port State authorities.
  • Quality System in assigned area of responsibility. Support the non-survey-related key Core Processes as needed for organizational success.

What You Will Need:
Education and Experience
  • Qualifications from a tertiary institution within a relevant field of engineering or physical science (minimum two (2) years program).
  • Qualifications from a marine or nautical institution and relevant seagoing experience as a certificated ship officer.
  • Typically, three (3) years of experience working as a Senior Surveyor.
  • Typically, two (2) years of experience on international assignments or significant exposure to international projects and processes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Demonstrated expertise in effectively executing surveys across various disciplines.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and have an extensive understanding of marine and/or offshore shipbuilding and construction practices, engineering systems, structure, and vessel operations.
  • Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving ability with the skill to propose and convey solutions effectively.
  • Client/Customer service-focused demeanor with the ability to build relationships supporting business development.
  • Excellent communication skills and English fluency, both written and verbal, with the ability to conduct detailed technical and business communication/interaction in a professional role.
  • Knowledge of metrics-based performance concepts and the ability to manage key performance indicators to meet business outcomes.
  • Ability to learn the ABS Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental Management Systems.

Physical Requirements:
  • Where allowed by local laws, a pre-employment physical examination is mandatory.
  • The role of surveyor/auditor requires sufficient physical strength, stamina, agility, and both visual and auditory acuity to perform the listed duties effectively.
  • The ability to climb vertical ladders up to nine meters and navigate steep steps is essential.
  • Shall be capable of working at heights on various staging and lifting equipment.
  • Shall be able to maneuver in tight spaces and work inside confined areas for extended periods, including kneeling and crawling.
  • The role may involve exposure to industrial environments, potential injury risks, extreme weather conditions, and demanding physical activities.
  • Shall be able to lift at least 25 lbs. / 11.34 kgs.
  • The use of small tools and the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), in accordance with ABS safety procedures, may be required.
  • Where allowed by local laws, the surveyor will be required to successfully complete an annual physical that will recertify that the individual can perform the physical actions required.

Reporting Relationships:
Works under the direction of the "In Charge" Surveyor as assigned. May work under the direction of Area, Regional, or Hemisphere Operations Leadership as required by the business.
Notice:
This position requires access to information that is subject to control by the Export Administration Regulations and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Any offer of employment shall be contingent upon the Company's verification that the candidate is a "U.S. Person" or upon the receipt of all necessary export licenses or authorizations that may be required by U.S. export control laws. "U.S. Persons" are defined as U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents (i.e., "green card" holders), or any individual granted protected status under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)), including asylees and refugees. In the event a candidate refuses or cannot otherwise provide the necessary information for the Company to determine whether such licenses may be required, or for the Company to obtain any required licenses, the Company shall maintain the exclusive right to discontinue the application process and/or withdraw any contingent offer that has been made.
About Us
We set out more than 160 years ago to promote the security of life and property at sea and preserve the natural environment. Today, we remain true to our mission and continue to support organizations facing a rapidly evolving seascape of challenging regulations and new technologies. Through it all, we are anchored by a vision and mission that help our clients find clarity in uncertain times.
ABS is a global leader in marine and offshore classification and other innovative safety, quality, and environmental services. We're at the forefront of supporting the global energy transition at sea, the application of remote and autonomous marine systems, cutting-edge technical solutions, and many more exciting advancements. Our commitment to safety, reliability, and efficiency is ever-present, guiding our clients to safer and more efficient operations.
About Our Benefits
ABS Bureau proudly offers a variety of industry-leading benefits designed to enhance the life and well-being of our employees and their families. These benefits include, but are not limited to, medical insurance (PPO and HD), dental and vision insurance, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Savings Account (FSA), life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, disability leave programs, parental leave program, paid holidays, and paid vacation time. The Company provides an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) that offers support in personal wellness, including work-life services. ABS Bureau also offers a 401K plan with a generous company match, subject to plan requirements.
Equal Opportunity
ABS Bureau is committed to the equal employment opportunity of its employees and prohibits discrimination against any employee or qualified applicant based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status or veteran status, or other non-work-related characteristics that may be protected under the law of the Federal Government or specific state employment laws.
Notice
ABS and Affiliated Companies (ABS) will not pay a fee to any third-party agency without a valid ABS Master Service Agreement (MSA) authorized and signed by Human Resources. Any resume, CV, application, or other forms of candidate submission provided to any employee of ABS without a valid MSA on file will be considered property of ABS, and no fee will be paid.
Other
This job description is not intended, and should not be construed, to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job of the incumbent. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the principal job elements essential for making a fair decision regarding the pay structure of the job. #ogjs

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About American Bureau of Shipping

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ABS is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence as one of the world’s leading classification organizations. In a constantly evolving industry, ABS works alongside its partners tackling the most pressing technical, operational and regulatory challenges so the marine and offshore industries can operate safely, securely and responsibly. For more than 150 years, ABS has been at the forefront of marine and offshore energy innovation. We work alongside our partners tackling the most pressing technical, operational and regulatory challenges so the marine and offshore industries can operate safely, securely and responsibly. We provide traditional classification services as well as on-the-ground technical services in asset performance, energy efficiency, environmental performance and life cycle management. With a passion for making the world a safer place, while also delivering practical and innovative solutions, we stand ready to assist and advance the marine and offshore energy industries.

Industry

Water transportation

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Spring, TX, US

Year founded

1862

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