Survey Crew Chief
Plymouth, MI · On-site
UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure * Large site development or DOT experience Pay and ... engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity ...
Survey Crew Chief
Plymouth, MI · On-site
UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure * Large site development or DOT experience Pay and ... engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity ...
... value engineering, site logistics solutions, etc. * Work with the estimating department to ... Collect as-built survey data using UAV technologies. * Collect as-built utility data using GPS ...
... value engineering, site logistics solutions, etc. * Work with the estimating department to ... Collect as-built survey data using UAV technologies. * Collect as-built utility data using GPS ...
... value engineering, site logistics solutions, etc. * Work with the estimating department to ... Collect as-built survey data using UAV technologies. * Collect as-built utility data using GPS ...
... value engineering, site logistics solutions, etc. * Work with the estimating department to ... Collect as-built survey data using UAV technologies. * Collect as-built utility data using GPS ...
Uav Engineer information
See Michigan salary details
$28.8K - $37.4K
7% of jobs
$37.4K - $46K
2% of jobs
$46K - $54.7K
11% of jobs
$57.4K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$54.7K - $63.3K
16% of jobs
$63.3K - $71.9K
14% of jobs
The median wage is $72.3K / yr.
$71.9K - $80.6K
14% of jobs
$80.6K - $89.2K
11% of jobs
$90.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$89.2K - $97.9K
7% of jobs
$97.9K - $106.5K
12% of jobs
$106.5K - $115.1K
4% of jobs
$115.1K - $123.8K
3% of jobs
$28.8K
$77.7K
$123.8K
How much do uav engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav engineer in Michigan is $77,732.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a UAV engineer?
A UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains drone systems for various applications, including military, commercial, and research purposes. They work with hardware and software components such as flight controllers, navigation systems, communication systems, and sensors. UAV Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize drone performance, ensure regulatory compliance, and address challenges like aerodynamics, power efficiency, and automation.
What does a UAV engineer do?
A typical day for a UAV Engineer often involves designing and testing UAV components, writing and debugging control software, and analyzing flight data to optimize performance. You may participate in collaborative meetings with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, mechanical engineers, and project managers, to coordinate design efforts and resolve technical challenges. Field testing UAV prototypes is also common, requiring on-site troubleshooting and real-time adjustments. The role blends hands-on technical work with documentation and compliance tasks to ensure projects meet both engineering and safety standards.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the UAV engineer position, and why are they important?
To thrive as a UAV Engineer, you need a strong background in aeronautical engineering or robotics, proficiency in programming (such as C++ or Python), and knowledge of UAV design principles. Familiarity with CAD software, flight simulation tools, embedded systems, and FAA drone regulations is typically required, along with certifications like Part 107 for commercial drone operation. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in cross-functional projects. These skills ensure safe, efficient UAV development and integration in diverse environments, meeting both technical and regulatory standards.
What are popular job titles related to Uav Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Uav Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Uav Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Uav Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Uav Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Uav Engineer job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 27 days ago
Job description
The Opportunity
SME is seeking an experienced Survey Crew Chief to lead field survey operations supporting large site development/construction, transportation, energy, and industrial projects throughout Southeast Michigan.
This is a hands-on field role for a seasoned professional who enjoys solving real-world construction challenges and being trusted to execute work correctly the first time. Our Survey Crew Chiefs are respected for their expertise, have clear authority in the field, and are responsible for communicating with licensed surveyors and office staff to ensure accuracy and alignment on project needs.
What You'll Do:
Field Leadership & Execution
Technical Survey Work
Safety & Quality
What We're Looking For:
Required Experience
Preferred Experience
Pay and Benefits
Field Role Specific Perks
About SME
SME is an employee-owned consulting firm providing surveying, engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity, practical solutions, and trusting experienced professionals to lead in the field.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
SME is seeking an experienced Survey Crew Chief to lead field survey operations supporting large site development/construction, transportation, energy, and industrial projects throughout Southeast Michigan.
This is a hands-on field role for a seasoned professional who enjoys solving real-world construction challenges and being trusted to execute work correctly the first time. Our Survey Crew Chiefs are respected for their expertise, have clear authority in the field, and are responsible for communicating with licensed surveyors and office staff to ensure accuracy and alignment on project needs.
What You'll Do:
Field Leadership & Execution
- Lead daily survey field operations as a 1 person crew
- Direct and mentor survey technicians; set expectations for productivity, quality, and safety
- Serve as SME's on-site representative with owners, contractors, and inspectors
- Make real-time field decisions to resolve layout conflicts, project challenges, and site conditions
Technical Survey Work
- Perform and oversee:
- Construction staking and layout
- Boundary, ALTA/NSPS, topographic, and as-built- surveys
- Operate robotic total stations, GPS/GNSS systems, and digital levels
- Interpret construction drawings, plats, easements, and control networks
- Deliver clean, complete field data; no routine CAD production expected
Safety & Quality
- Enforce SME safety standards and job site protocols
- Maintain survey equipment and assigned vehicles
- Identify scope gaps or risks early and communicate proactively
What We're Looking For:
Required Experience
- 5+ years of progressive land surveying field experience.
- Proven experience functioning as a Survey Crew Chief, Party Chief, or senior field leader; or a strong Survey Technician ready to step into a lead role
- Strong construction staking and site control background
- Proficient with modern survey equipment and data collectors
- Ability to interpret plans, plats, and legal descriptions
- Valid driver's license; ability to travel throughout Northern Ohio
- Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain, weather, and active construction environments, including walking extended distances on uneven ground and handling typical survey equipment, lifting/pushing/pulling/twisting, kneeling/standing/bending often.
Preferred Experience
- Industrial, transportation, or heavy civil project experience
- Surveyor Intern (SI) certification or progress toward licensure
- UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure
- Large site development or DOT experience
Pay and Benefits
- Paid overtime opportunities
- Annual performance bonuses and profit sharing
- Annual wage reviews and market adjustment
- Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage after 30 days
- SME pays 100% of employee medical insurance premiums
- 401(k) with company match and annual profit sharing
- Competitive PTO plus Volunteer Time Off
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
Field Role Specific Perks
- Company vehicle provided
- Typical weekday schedule; overtime varies by project
- Expected workload of approximately 45-50+ hours/week, while prioritizing work/life balance
- Majority of work is local/regional (limited overnight travel)
- Modern survey equipment and strong technical support
- Stable backlog and consistent workload
About SME
SME is an employee-owned consulting firm providing surveying, engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity, practical solutions, and trusting experienced professionals to lead in the field.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.