Survey Crew Chief - Rail Services (Travel required)

The role

This person will lead and manage survey field operations on railroad-related projects. They will perform data collection, operate survey equipment, and coordinate field schedules throughout the United States.

What you will do

• Lead and manage survey field operations on rail-related projects.
• Plan and coordinate travel logistics, lodging, transportation, and field schedules.
• Maintain, transport, and operate survey equipment including GNSS receivers, robotic total stations, digital levels, terrestrial scanners, and UAV equipment.
• Ensure compliance with Olsson Railroad safety policies and railroad-specific safety requirements.
• Perform survey data collection in accordance with established survey standards, project requirements, and railroad procedures.
• Conduct topographic, boundary, construction staking, H&H surveys, rail bridge structural surveys, utility, as-built, and control surveys on active railroad corridors.
• Coordinate daily activities with project managers, clients, railroad representatives, and field personnel.
• Train, mentor, and oversee survey technicians and field staff.
• Maintain field notes, documentation, and quality control procedures.
• Identify and communicate potential project risks, safety concerns, schedule impacts, and operational challenges.

Required qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3-5 years of experience serving as a Survey Crew Chief.
• Strong understanding of land surveying principles and field procedures.
• Experience operating GNSS and robotic total station equipment.
• Knowledge of Control networks and QA/QC procedures.
• Ability to work both as a team and independently with limited supervision.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Ability to travel 80% or more throughout the United States.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and to working safely in active railroad and construction environments.

Nice to have

• experience with railroad survey
• FAA Part 107 certification
• UAS/Lidar experience

Benefits

• Competitive 401(k) match
• Tailored development paths
• Possibility for flexible work arrangements
• Wellness program
• Health care
• Vision
• Dental
• Paid time off
• Bonus system

About the company

Olsson is an engineering and design firm that provides solutions to improve the world. They are a people-centric firm focused on being responsive, transparent, and results-oriented.