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Principal Surveyor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's 7 Missouri ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's Osage Beach ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's 7 Missouri ...

Schedule survey projects and monitor completion. * Instruct survey crews for field work needed ... principals, and be proficient in AutoCAD Civil 3D. * Demonstrate ability to manage multiple ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's Ozark, Missouri ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's Ozark, Missouri ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's Ozark, Missouri ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's Osage Beach ...

... land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal ... principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project. Cochran's Osage Beach ...

Project Surveyor

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$77K - $98K/yr

Principal Responsibilities Perform complex survey duties associated with construction stakeout and boundary, topographic, and as built surveys Research historic maps, land records, previous surveys ...

Project Surveyor

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$77K - $98K/yr

Principal Responsibilities • Perform complex survey duties associated with construction stakeout and boundary, topographic, and as built surveys • Research historic maps, land records, previous ...

County Surveyor

Juneau, WI · On-site

$40.98 - $45.16/hr

Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems and the theories, principals, and standard best ... Knowledge of field surveying principles and practices, theory of measurement and error analysis.

Professional Land Surveyor I: 12-22 years: $96,500-$122,600 Professional Land Surveyor II/III: 17-33 years: $119,300- $153,300 Principal Duties and Responsibilities: * Coordinate with the client, the ...

Professional Land Surveyor

Meeker, CO · On-site

$96K - $153K/yr

Professional Land Surveyor I: 12-22 years: $96,500-$122,600 Professional Land Surveyor II/III: 17-33 years: $119,300- $153,300 Principal Duties and Responsibilities: * Coordinate with the client, the ...

Professional Land Surveyor

Durango, CO · On-site

$96K - $153K/yr

Professional Land Surveyor I: 12-22 years: $96,500-$122,600 Professional Land Surveyor II/III: 17-33 years: $119,300- $153,300 Principal Duties and Responsibilities: * Coordinate with the client, the ...

Project Surveyor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$46.75 - $55/hr

Project Surveyor Department: Survey Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sacramento, CA ... principals, and be proficient in AutoCAD Civil 3D. * Demonstrate ability to manage multiple ...

Project Surveyor

Roseville, CA · On-site

$46.75 - $55/hr

Survey Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA Compensation: $46.75 - $55.00 / hour ... principals, and be proficient in AutoCAD Civil 3D. * Demonstrate ability to manage multiple ...

County Surveyor

Juneau, WI

$40.98 - $45.16/hr

Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems and the theories, principals, and standard best ... Knowledge of field surveying principles and practices, theory of measurement and error analysis.

Project Surveyor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$46.75 - $55/hr

Schedule survey projects and monitor completion. * Instruct survey crews for field work needed ... principals, and be proficient in AutoCAD Civil 3D. * Demonstrate ability to manage multiple ...

Showing results 41-60

Principal Surveyor information

See salary details

$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal surveyor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 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.

Professional Land Surveyor

Cochran

Wentzville, MO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Cochran is a growing civil engineering firm with 7 Missouri offices, offering services in construction administration, materials testing, architectural and geotechnical engineering, and land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal, commercial, residential, transportation, water/wastewater, site development, retail, planning, and interior design. With 120+ professionals, the firm delivers tailored solutions backed by deep expertise and is guided by core values of teamwork, excellence, quality, and trust—ensuring principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project.

Cochran's 7 Missouri locations are looking for Registered Professional Land Surveyors to join our team.

Position Summary:

We are seeking licensed Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) to join our growing civil engineering firm. This role involves overseeing and performing land surveying tasks for a variety of public and private sector projects, including boundary, topographic, ALTA, and construction surveys. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, experienced with current surveying technology, and committed to delivering high-quality results that support engineering and development efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage and perform land surveying services for civil engineering projects
  • Supervise and lead field crews, ensuring data is collected accurately and efficiently
  • Prepare and review plats, legal descriptions, and survey drawings in compliance with state and local regulations
  • Conduct boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS land title, right-of-way, and construction staking surveys
  • Interpret construction plans and engineering documents to guide survey activities
  • Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and clients to define project requirements and deliverables
  • Ensure adherence to professional standards and applicable laws
  • Review and certify final survey documents with PLS stamp and signature

Qualifications:

  • Active Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license
  • Minimum 5 years of land surveying experience, including leadership of field crews
  • Proficiency in survey software and equipment (e.g., Trimble, Leica, AutoCAD Civil 3D)
  • Strong knowledge of surveying principles, legal codes, and industry standards
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in a civil engineering consulting environment
  • UAS/Drone certification and experience with aerial mapping is a plus
  • Familiarity with GIS and 3D modeling technologies

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
  • 100% company paid Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Long-Term Disability insurance for employees, plus company deductible assistance
  • 401(k) with 4% company match
  • Generous PTO plan and 7 major holidays
  • Continuing education and professional development support