1

Surveyor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Surveyor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$5

$33

$46

How much do surveyor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveyor in Portland, OR is $33.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $39.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is surveying a good paying job?

Surveying is generally considered a well-paying profession, especially for those with experience, certifications, and specialized skills such as GIS or CAD. Salaries can vary based on location, level of expertise, and industry, with many surveyors earning competitive wages and opportunities for advancement.

What qualifications do I need for surveying?

Surveyors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, 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 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 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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Surveyor jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of 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 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,093 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Staff Surveyor

BKF

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$60K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

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 California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you’ll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to be recognized with the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

The surveying team at BKF works on a variety of cutting-edge projects. As a staff surveyor, you will assist senior project surveyors and your project manager on 3D laser scanning, construction staking, GIS, BIM, boundary, and topographic survey projects. You will draft maps and topographic surveys, build 3D models, and assist our field crews in constructing the largest and most high-profile projects on the West Coast. We work on a diverse array of projects and provide training to help each team member become well-rounded.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Creating mapping deliverables including boundary surveys, ALTA surveys, topographic surveys, plats, and legal descriptions
  • Post-processing field data collected via total station, GPS, levels, 3D laser scanners, and unmanned aerial systems
  • Travel to various job sites and offices may be required

Requirements

  • 0-3 years of office surveying experience
  • Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) or LSIT are preferred
  • Knowledge of surveying principles, techniques, and equipment
  • Proficient in CAD software, especially Autodesk Civil 3D
  • Construction staking experience, including reading plans, construction calculations, and preparing cut sheets, is preferred
  • Experience processing laser scanning data, including registration and 3D modeling, is helpful but not required
  • Assist with special projects as needed
  • May require flexible hours
  • Travel between BKF offices and other off-site locations may be required

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

  • The typical base salary range for this position is $60,000.00 - $87,000.00 annualized depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is an hourly position paid bi-weekly.
  • Competitive salaries, profit sharing, and 401k.
  • Generous paid time off packages.
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
  • BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

BKF Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and a specific solicitation for the position or other approved engagement request for the position with BKF Engineers, BKF Engineers reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited submittals are done at the risk of the recruiter.