Survey Party Chief

Company Description

About KPFF

KPFF is a collaborative and creative team of civil and structural engineers and surveyors that thrive on designing innovative solutions for projects of all scales. KPFF is a leader in sustainable design, providing our clients with visionary, environmentally sensitive and technically advanced services. Our company is large (1,500+ employees across 36 offices), but nimble and operates day-to-day with the flexibility of a small firm. We have a great group of collaborative and dedicated engineers in a family-friendly, business casual environment.

The Portland Civil + Survey office (including Eugene and Washington DC staff) consists of 105 employees including 45 PEs and 4 PLSs. Our core civil practice focuses on site development, public utility and roadway infrastructure, parks and trails, and innovative stormwater management. Our survey team focuses on boundary staking, topo surveying, construction layout, drone missions, and building inspections. We work on many different and exciting design projects including education and healthcare facilities, national parks, cultural centers, zoos and museums, as well as government and international facilities. We believe in encouraging personal and professional growth, and we work hard at providing a solid structure with minimal organizational restrictions.

KPFF is more than just the work we do, we are the relationships we build, both with our clients and with our co-workers. To foster those relationships and build up our employees, KPFF offers a number of growth opportunities and social events, with monthly lunchtime learning opportunities, outside speakers, and structured growth programs, employees are offered the opportunity to grow and expand their knowledge.

Job Description

Survey Party Chief

KPFF Survey is actively recruiting for a full-time Survey Party Chief position in Eugene, Oregon. Our typical projects include control, boundary, topographic, utility, ALTA, verification, and monitor surveying. We collect field data using the latest survey grade equipment, including conventional total stations, digital levels, GPS, 3D scanners, and drone lidar technology. The candidate must possess and accurately represent a minimum of 5 years of party chief experience. We work with engineers, architects, landscape architects, developers, and public agencies. You may find yourself on a project in downtown Portland one day, followed by something in remote eastern Oregon, and beyond. Travel is required and can vary between 20-45% (depending on the project), but typically the crew is back in Eugene for the weekend.

The successful candidate will work with and lead the survey field team to deliver projects completed safely, accurately, and professionally. Experienced and licensed individuals will actively work with you to further your career path in Land Surveying.

Individuals already working as a crew chief, with a minimum 5 years of experience preferred, or someone that can demonstrate multiple years in a senior field technician role are also encouraged to apply. Pay is dependent upon experience ($31-$45/hour).

Qualifications

Qualifications + Requirements + Party Chief Duties

Candidate must be able to perform field duties in a party chief capacity. The candidate should have knowledge in the maintenance of field equipment, setup, operations, and proper field procedures to ensure efficient and accurate field data collection. Candidate must have the ability to communicate effectively, handle multiple projects simultaneously, and add value to an agile survey team. Candidate must also have the flexibility to travel, a valid Driver's License, and safe driving record. The ability to pass a background check and drug screening may be a requirement to participate in specific projects. Duties will include:

• Lead a field crew safely
• Lead a crew with effective crew resource management
• Lead a crew with appropriate field equipment
• Complete field projects the first time without unnecessary return trips
• Work effectively and maintain a good attitude with our field and office team
• Operate a crew vehicle with current and valid driver’s license
• Operate Trimble S6 robot and GPS with data collection
• Perform efficient, accurate, and complete survey field work
• Take field notes including depiction sketches
• Perform field calculations and construction staking
• Maintain quality field procedures
• Perform equipment calibration and maintenance
• Train/mentor field technicians to effectively and efficiently accomplish the responsibilities described above

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Responsibilities take place in both office and field environments
• Office work includes extended periods of time at a desk, computer, or meeting table
• Field work may require standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and navigating uneven or rough terrain during site visits, surveys, or construction-related activities
• May lift or carry surveying equipment or field gear up to 30 pounds.
• Travel to project sites, client offices, or industry events is expected, which may involve driving or occasional air travel

Additional Information

Compensation

The base pay for this role is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills. The expected pay range for this Survey Party Chief position is $31-$45/hour. Additionally, we offer performance-based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each Reporting Center. 

Culture & Benefits

At KPFF, your career growth and well-being matter. We offer a supportive environment that values autonomy, innovation, and teamwork. Here, your contributions are celebrated, your ideas are welcomed, and your career has room to grow.

• Mentorship & Growth: Through KPFF’s Forefront Education Program, you’ll have access to continuous learning, leadership development, and opportunities to advance your career while helping others do the same
• Strong Connections: We believe in trust, collaboration, and long-term relationships, both with our clients and within our teams. Open communication and teamwork are at the heart of how we operate
• Supportive Culture: Your well-being matters. We encourage balance, provide resources for a healthy lifestyle, and create opportunities to connect through social activities and community events

We are passionate about supporting our employees through flexible and comprehensive Benefits:

• Medical Plan Options: PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care
• Dental & Vision: Full preventive care plus coverage for major services
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges
• Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year’s salary
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match required
• Disability Insurance: Short- and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays
• Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income
• Engineering License Support: Fee renewals, plus financial assistance for PE license applications and exams
• Professional Associations + Memberships: We cover the costs of membership in professional associations

How To Apply: 
Submit your application online, including a cover letter and resume.

#LI-AG1

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.