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Surveyor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Join BKF Engineers as a Staff Surveyor and join innovative surveying projects! BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across ...

Staff Surveyor

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$60K - $87K/yr

Join BKF Engineers as a Staff Surveyor and join innovative surveying projects! BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across ...

Staff Surveyor

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$60K - $87K/yr

Join BKF Engineers as a Staff Surveyor and join innovative surveying projects! BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across ...

Staff Surveyor

Portland, OR · On-site

$60K - $87K/yr

Join BKF Engineers as a Staff Surveyor and join innovative surveying projects! BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across ...

Staff Surveyor

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$60K - $87K/yr

Join BKF Engineers as a Staff Surveyor and join innovative surveying projects! BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across ...

Staff Surveyor

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$60K - $87K/yr

Join BKF Engineers as a Staff Surveyor and join innovative surveying projects! BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across ...

Professional Land Surveyor 1

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$39.61 - $59.41/hr

Survey and Geomatics Join DOWL's Survey and Geomatics team to play a vital role in shaping infrastructure from the ground up. Our surveyors tackle an impressive variety of projects--from individual ...

Professional Land Surveyor 1

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$39.61 - $59.41/hr

Survey and Geomatics Join DOWL's Survey and Geomatics team to play a vital role in shaping infrastructure from the ground up. Our surveyors tackle an impressive variety of projects-from individual ...

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Surveyor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$5

$33

$46

How much do surveyor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveyor in Portland, OR is $33.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $39.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surveyor?

Surveyors are professionals who measure and map the environment using specialized tools and techniques. They determine land boundaries, create maps, and provide data for engineering, construction, and land development projects. Their work ensures legal property lines, supports infrastructure planning, and helps prevent disputes over land ownership. Surveyors often work outdoors and must be skilled in mathematics, technology, and interpreting plans and legal documents.

What do surveyors do?

Surveyors take measurements of land to determine boundaries for property and other purposes. The data they provide is used for construction and engineering projects. They research land records, survey records, and land titles to pinpoint the exact boundary lines of real estate and other properties. Surveyors determine the precise location of roads and the needed depths of building foundations using tools such as GPS or tripod infrared reflectors and knowledge of geometry, physics, and engineering to measure the land. They establish land and water boundaries for deeds, leases, and other legal documents, and testify in court regarding survey work when necessary.

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

To thrive as a Surveyor, you need a solid understanding of land measurement, mapping, and construction principles, usually backed by a relevant degree and professional licensure. Proficiency with technical tools such as GPS equipment, CAD software, and geographic information systems (GIS) is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and project teams. These competencies ensure accurate measurements, regulatory compliance, and successful project delivery.

What are some common challenges a surveyor faces when working on construction projects, and how can they be addressed?

Surveyors often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders like engineers and construction managers. To address these, Surveyors utilize advanced surveying technology and maintain clear communication with the project team to ensure data accuracy and project timelines. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are key, as unexpected obstacles can arise on-site. Regular training and staying updated on new surveying methods also help Surveyors manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Surveyor vs Civil Engineer?

AspectSurveyorCivil Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a surveying degree or diploma, and licensure or certification in surveyingRequires a degree in civil engineering, often with licensure or professional engineer (PE) certification
Work EnvironmentWorks outdoors on land, construction sites, and mapping projectsWorks both indoors in offices and outdoors on construction sites and infrastructure projects
Industry UsageUsed in land development, construction, and mappingUsed in infrastructure, transportation, and construction projects

Surveyors and civil engineers share overlapping skills and work environments, but surveyors focus on land measurement, mapping, and boundary determination, while civil engineers design and oversee infrastructure projects. Both roles are essential in construction and development projects, often collaborating closely.

Is surveying a good paying job?

Surveying is generally considered a well-paying profession, with salaries often higher than average for technical roles, especially for experienced surveyors or those with specialized skills like GIS or CAD. Compensation can vary based on location, experience, and certifications such as a Professional Land Surveyor license.

What degree do you need to be a land surveyor?

To become a land surveyor, a bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, civil engineering, or a related field is typically required. Professional licensure often requires passing exams and gaining work experience, and knowledge of surveying tools and software is essential.

What qualifications do I need for surveying?

Surveyors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many pursuing a bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, civil engineering, or a related field. Professional certification or licensing, such as a state surveyor license, is often required and involves passing exams and gaining work experience. Skills in mathematics, technical drawing, and proficiency with surveying tools and software are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surveyor jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Surveyor jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Surveyor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Surveyor jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Surveyor jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Surveyor job openings:

Infographic showing various Surveyor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,070 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

 
Firm Background

Founded in Portland, Oregon in 1990, Harper Houf Peterson Righellis Inc. (HHPR) is a firm of engineers, planners, landscape architects, surveyors, and natural resources scientists who provide integrated services for transportation, utility, and water infrastructure; public/private site development, and recreational parks and trails facilities.

With a growing staff of over 115, we serve clients across Oregon and southwestern Washington from our offices in Portland, Salem, Eugene, Bend, and Vancouver.


We Offer:

Our culture is one of dedicated individuals who take our clients’ needs seriously while having fun. We support our teammates’ aspirations and provide the opportunity to achieve professional and personal goals. We are respectful of individuals’ personal lives and strive for an efficient and effective work life balance. It is because of this our employees have distinguished us with both national and regional awards for one of the Best Firms to Work For.

 

What We Are Seeking:

HHPR is seeking a Project Surveyor who will be responsible for managing and executing a variety of survey projects ranging from small site surveys to transportation projects in our Portland, OR office. This position will utilize terrestrial and GPS survey methods, engage in client relations, plan survey projects, direct field crews, and prepare reports and other deliverables. We require that the project surveyor possess boundary, control, and topographic surveying experience. Additionally, they must have the ability to work independently, be flexible and adjust to changing project conditions and needs.


Responsibilities:

  • Support Civil Engineering related work including roadway design, site design, utility design.
  • Function as lead surveyor on a variety of survey projects in collaboration with the survey staff and the project team.
  • Independently plan, conduct, and supervise field and office staff in terrestrial and GPS surveys, data processing, and technical analyses.
  • Produce and oversee production of project deliverables, ensuring deliverables are within established HHPR project parameters, quality control guidelines and professional standards.
  • Prepare scopes of work and cost estimates. 
  • Ability to utilize scanning equipment and data a plus. 
  • Mentor junior staff.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

 

Job Requirements:

  • Current Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license in the state of Oregon and/or Washington, with at least 5 years' experience.
  • Proficient using AutoCAD Civil 3D (MicroStation and InRoads experience a bonus).
  • Proficient with general survey software like Star*Net, Trimble Business Center, Data Processing Software and GPS Software.
  • Proficient with general office software such as Microsoft products.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Prefer B.S. in Surveying or a related field, not required.
  • Prefer laser scanning and/or UAV experience, not required.

 

Our Benefits:

We offer competitive compensation and excellent benefits which include:

  • Generous employer paid 401(k) contributions, requiring no match to receive
  • 100% company paid premiums for health, alternative care, vision and dental premiums for employee and dependents
  • Company paid long term disability and life insurance
  • Paid vacation, sick and holiday time
  • Supplemental insurance benefits
  • Wellness and fitness benefits
  • Public transportation reimbursement
  • Company paid Professional license and association fees
  • Opportunity for company stock ownership
  • Employee engagement, celebrations, and events throughout the year


Interested?

Please submit resume and cover letter.


HHPR is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Recruiters, please note:  We are not accepting agency submissions for this role. Direct applicants only.