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Survey Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Survey Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a Survey Manager , you'll be at the forefront of impactful projects-leading talented teams, driving data collection strategies, and delivering high-quality insights that shape real-world outcomes.

Survey Manager

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

As our Survey Manager, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising survey projects to ensure they are completed accurately, on time, and within budget. This role involves ...

Survey Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Survey Data Management skills and experience, download off instruments, store, file and process into required formats to analysis and use for tracking work completed. * Pro-active problem solving ...

Survey Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a Survey Manager , you'll be at the forefront of impactful projects-leading talented teams, driving data collection strategies, and delivering high-quality insights that shape real-world outcomes.

Survey Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$145K - $190K/yr

The Survey Manager is responsible for supervising the entire survey team. They will recommend facilities, personnel, and funds required to carry out programs. They will oversee the technical, legal ...

The Survey Manager is responsible for supervising the entire survey team. They will recommend facilities, personnel, and funds required to carry out programs. They will oversee the technical, legal ...

As our Survey Manager, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising survey projects to ensure they are completed accurately, on time, and within budget. This role involves ...

Field Survey Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Field Survey Manager Company: Rick Engineering CO Location: San Diego, CA Salary: $125,000 To $165,000 Annually About Company RICK (formerly referred to as Rick Engineering Company) started as a ...

Survey Manager

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

As our Survey Manager, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising survey projects to ensure they are completed accurately, on time, and within budget. This role involves ...

Survey Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$150K/yr

Survey Data Management skills and experience, download off instruments, store, file and process into required formats to analysis and use for tracking work completed. * Pro-active problem solving ...

Survey Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a Survey Manager , you'll be at the forefront of impactful projects--leading talented teams, driving data collection strategies, and delivering high-quality insights that shape real-world outcomes.

Field Survey Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$60.10 - $79.33/hr

Field Survey Manager Company: Rick Engineering CO Location: San Diego, CA Salary: $125,000 To $165,000 Annually About Company RICK (formerly referred to as Rick Engineering Company) started as a ...

Survey Manager I (PLS)

Oakland, CA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Job Title Survey Manager I (PLS) Location Oakland - Oakland, CA 94612 US San Jose - San Jose, CA 95134 US (Primary) Walnut Creek - Walnut Creek, CA 94596 US Category Survey and Mapping Salary Grade ...

CWE, an Apex Company, is seeking an experienced Licensed Surveyor Manager to join our team in our Roseville, California office. As a California Registered Professional Land Surveyor, you will take ...

CWE, an Apex Company, is seeking an experienced Licensed Surveyor Manager to join our team in our Roseville, California office. As a California Registered Professional Land Surveyor, you will take ...

Survey Manager I (PLS)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

Job Title Survey Manager I (PLS) Location Inland Empire - Ontario, CA 91764 US (Primary) Category Survey and Mapping Salary Grade $150,000.00 - $195,000.00 Full Time/Part Time Full-time Posting ...

CWE, an Apex Company, is seeking an experienced Licensed Surveyor Manager to join our team in ourRoseville, California office. As a California Registered Professional Land Surveyor, you will take ...

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Showing results 1-20

Survey Manager information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$99.4K

$132.2K

How much do survey manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for survey manager in California is $99,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a survey manager do?

A Survey Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of land or site surveys for construction, engineering, or mapping projects. They coordinate survey teams, ensure the accuracy of data collection, and manage project timelines and budgets. Survey Managers also interpret survey data, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with legal and safety standards. Their role is vital in providing precise measurements and information that support project decisions and development.

What does a survey manager do?

A survey manager is responsible for overseeing a site and directing crews on survey plans associated with engineering and construction projects. Additional duties include preparing proposals, contracts and reports; consulting with clients; preparing right-of-way plans; performing field work; and drawing/drafting maps. You need to take measurements of property boundaries. You may also need to provide contractors, construction crew, and clients with a detailed description of the land features and characteristics. A survey manager may need to research the history of the land for legal records, survey records, land titles, or other information about the property.

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

To thrive as a Survey Manager, you need expertise in land surveying principles, project management experience, and usually a relevant degree or professional surveyor licensure (e.g., PLS or RPLS). Proficiency with surveying instruments (like GPS, total stations, and GIS software) and familiarity with CAD systems are essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in managing teams and collaborating with clients or stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate data collection, timely project delivery, and effective team coordination in complex surveying projects.

What are some common challenges survey managers face when coordinating large-scale data collection projects?

Survey Managers often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy, managing timelines across multiple teams, and addressing unexpected obstacles like low response rates or technical issues with survey tools. Effective communication with field staff and stakeholders is essential to keep projects on track. Additionally, adapting to changing client requirements and maintaining data privacy compliance are important aspects of the role. Proactive planning and strong organizational skills can help overcome these common hurdles.

Is surveying a high demand job?

Surveying is generally considered a stable profession with steady demand, especially in construction, infrastructure, and land development sectors. Employment opportunities often require technical skills, certifications, and proficiency with surveying tools and software. The demand can vary by region and economic activity but remains an important part of many engineering and planning projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Survey jobs in California?

The most popular types of Survey jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Survey Manager jobs in California?

For Survey Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Survey Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Survey Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Survey Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Survey Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Survey Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,409 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Survey Manager

San Diego, CA • On-site


NV5
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

144th of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$140K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

NV5 is a leading provider of tech-enabled engineering, testing, inspection, and consulting solutions for the built environment. We specialize in engineering design, asset management, and geospatial data analytics to support infrastructure resilience and building systems performance throughout the entire asset lifecycle.

NV5's 5,000 consulting engineers, inspectors, and analysts play a critical role in shaping our communities through resilient infrastructure that will stand the test of time and efficient smart building systems for optimized facility environments.

With more than 100 offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 assists clients with planning, designing, building, testing, certifying, and operating infrastructure assets that improve the communities where we live and work.

NV5 is seeking a Survey Manager who will lead with Precision and Purpose

Are you passionate about turning data into decisions? As a Survey Manager, you'll be at the forefront of impactful projects-leading talented teams, driving data collection strategies, and delivering high-quality insights that shape real-world outcomes.

In this role, you'll:

  • Lead and Inspire: Manage and mentor survey teams to ensure smooth execution from planning to delivery.
  • Own the Process: Oversee all phases of survey projects-design, coordination, data collection, and reporting-ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and budget alignment.
  • Drive Results: Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to translate complex data into actionable reports that support strategic decisions.

This is more than a management role-it's an opportunity to make a measurable impact through leadership, innovation, and data excellence.

Responsibilities

Project Planning:

  • Collaborate with clients or stakeholders to understand project objectives and requirements.
  • Develop project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and budget estimates.
  • Identify potential challenges and risks and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Team Management:
  • Recruit, train, and supervise survey teams.
  • Assign tasks and responsibilities to team members.
  • Provide guidance and support to team members throughout the project.

Data Collection:

  • Determine the appropriate survey methods and tools for data collection (e.g., questionnaires, GPS, total stations, LiDAR, etc.).
  • Ensure data collection procedures are carried out accurately and efficiently.
  • Quality Control:
  • Implement quality control measures to maintain data accuracy and consistency.
  • Review survey data for errors and discrepancies and take corrective actions as needed.

Data Analysis:

  • Oversee data analysis and interpretation to draw meaningful insights from survey results.
  • Collaborate with data analysts or specialists as necessary.

Report Generation:

  • Prepare comprehensive survey reports that present findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
  • Ensure reports are clear, accurate, and meet client or regulatory requirements.

Regulatory Compliance:

  • Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Obtain necessary permits and approvals for survey projects.

Budget Management:

  • Monitor project budgets and expenditures.
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities and manage project finances effectively.

Client Communication:

  • Maintain regular communication with clients or project stakeholders to provide updates and address their concerns.
  • Address any client requests or changes in project scope.

Documentation:

  • Maintain organized project documentation, including field notes, data records, and project files.

Technology and Equipment:

  • Stay current with surveying technology and equipment.
  • Ensure that surveying tools and software are up to date and functioning properly.

Safety and Environmental Compliance:

  • Promote and enforce safety procedures to protect the well-being of survey team members and the environment.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., surveying, geomatics, geography, civil engineering, etc.).
  • Utility industry experience is required
  • Professional licensure or certification, if required by the industry or jurisdiction.
  • Proven experience in surveying, with a track record of managing survey projects.
  • Strong knowledge of surveying methods, equipment, and software.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
  • Familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and safety protocols.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

The pay range for this position in California is $140,000 to $170,000 per year. Base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered.

All local employment laws apply. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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Employment Type: OTHER

NV5 logo

About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US


What NV5 employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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