Professional Land Surveyor
The Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) is responsible for managing and delivering a wide range of surveying services in compliance with Washington State laws and professional standards. This role involves overseeing field and office survey operations, preparing and certifying survey documents, coordinating with clients and agencies, and supporting land development, transportation, and public infrastructure projects throughout the Olympia and South Puget Sound area.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform and oversee boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS, construction, right-of-way, and record of survey mapping projects
- Serve as Surveyor of Record; prepare, review, sign, and seal survey plats, legal descriptions, easements, and survey reports
- Manage survey staff, including field crews and technicians; provide technical guidance and quality control
- Coordinate with engineers, planners, architects, contractors, and public agencies (e.g., City of Olympia, Thurston County, WSDOT)
- Research deeds, plats, title reports, and public records to resolve boundary issues and land ownership questions
- Ensure compliance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC), RCWs, and local jurisdictional standards
- Support project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and client communication
- Utilize and oversee the use of survey equipment and software including GPS, robotic total stations, data collectors, and CAD platforms
- Assist with construction staking, as-builts, and project closeout documentation
Required Qualifications
- Active Washington State Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license
- Bachelor's degree in Land Surveying, Civil Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
- Minimum 5-10 years of progressive land surveying experience, including project leadership
- Strong knowledge of Washington State survey law, boundary principles, and public land records
- Proficiency with survey and CAD software (e.g., Civil 3D, MicroStation, Trimble, Leica)
- Valid driver's license with the ability to perform occasional field work
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working on municipal, transportation, or public works projects
- Familiarity with Thurston County, Olympia, and surrounding jurisdictions
- Previous experience managing clients, budgets, and schedules
- LSIT certification (prior to licensure) or mentorship experience
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
- Collaborative leadership style with mentoring capability
FAQs
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