Principal Survey Manager

Job Title: Principal Survey Manager
Location: San Diego, CA or Riverside, CA
Salary Range: $125,000 - $165,000

Company Description

A growing multidisciplinary engineering and surveying consulting firm is seeking an experienced survey professional to lead and expand its survey operations. The organization is known for delivering complex land development, infrastructure, and public works projects throughout Southern California.

Job Description

We are seeking a Principal Survey Manager to oversee survey operations, lead technical staff, and support the continued growth of an established surveying practice. This individual will play a key role in business development, project delivery, client management, and team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the survey department.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, agencies, contractors, developers, and internal teams.
• Drive business strategy and support growth initiatives for the survey practice.
• Prepare and oversee proposals, contracts, budgets, and project financial performance.
• Provide technical oversight for boundary, topographic, control, and construction staking surveys.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local surveying regulations and standards.
• Mentor, train, and develop field and office survey personnel.
• Establish and maintain quality control procedures for survey calculations and deliverables.
• Oversee project schedules, staffing, resource allocation, and survey department performance.
• Promote a strong culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive land surveying experience.
• Previous experience managing survey teams, projects, and department operations.
• California Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license preferred or ability to obtain licensure.
• Strong understanding of boundary surveying, survey control, construction staking, and topographic mapping.
• Experience preparing proposals, managing project budgets, and supporting client relationships.
• Proficiency with Civil 3D, CAD software, Microsoft Office Suite, and modern survey technology.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation

• Base salary ranging from $125,000 - $165,000.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company contribution.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Professional development and licensure support.
• Opportunities for advancement into senior leadership roles.

Why Should You Apply?

This is an opportunity to take ownership of a growing survey practice while working on high-profile infrastructure and land development projects throughout Southern California. You'll have the ability to shape the future of the department, mentor talented professionals, build client relationships, and position yourself for long-term leadership growth within a well-established organization.