Survey Party Chief – UAS / Drone Technology

Description The Opportunity RETTEW is seeking an experienced Survey Party Chief to lead field survey operations while having the opportunity to expand into UAS/drone technology and aerial data collection. We're looking first for a strong survey professional: someone who can independently lead a field crew, operate modern survey equipment, solve problems in the field, and consistently deliver accurate data to project teams.

Already have an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or professional UAS experience? Great. If not, we're interested in experienced Party Chiefs who want to develop those capabilities and incorporate drone technology into their surveying career. Work Environment Workplace Designation: Field-Based / Hybrid Locations: Williamsport, Mechanicsburg, or Pittsburgh, PA; Akron-Canton, OH; or Morgantown, WV This position is primarily field-based and includes regional travel to project sites throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and surrounding areas.

Office or remote flexibility may be available for applicable project coordination and documentation responsibilities. What You'll Do As a Survey Party Chief, you will independently lead field survey operations supporting land development, transportation, infrastructure, energy, environmental, and other multidisciplinary projects. You'll plan and execute field assignments, operate survey equipment, oversee data collection and quality, communicate with project managers and office teams, and provide direction to survey crew members.

You'll also have opportunities to develop or expand your capabilities with UAS/drone technology, aerial data collection, and modern geospatial workflows . As a Party Chief in this position, you will: Lead survey crews performing boundary, topographic, construction, control, and other field surveys. Plan and independently execute field survey assignments in accordance with project requirements. Operate GPS/GNSS equipment, total stations, electronic data collectors, and related survey technology.

Establish and verify survey control and collect accurate field data. Review field information for accuracy, completeness, and consistency before delivery to office teams. Maintain clear and accurate field notes, records, sketches, and electronic data. Interpret project plans, survey information, and field instructions to complete assignments. Identify and troubleshoot field conditions that may affect survey accuracy, efficiency, or project delivery.

Coordinate with Survey Project Managers, Professional Land Surveyors, CAD professionals, engineers, and other project-team members. Direct, train, and mentor survey crew members. Maintain survey equipment and support proper equipment care and calibration. Perform field work safely in active construction, infrastructure, and other project environments. Support UAS/drone field operations based on project needs and individual experience.

Develop additional capabilities in drone operations, aerial data collection, and related geospatial technologies. Qualifications Required Professional field-survey experience with demonstrated ability to independently perform survey assignments. Experience leading or providing direction to survey field crews. Hands-on experience with GPS/GNSS equipment, total stations, and electronic data collectors .

Professional experience performing field surveys such as boundary, topographic, construction, control, or similar survey work. Ability to review field data and identify potential errors, inconsistencies, or missing information. Ability to read and interpret project plans and survey-related information. Strong field problem-solving and organizational skills. Ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with project managers, office teams, and field personnel.

Interest in learning or expanding professional UAS/drone surveying capabilities . Ability to perform outdoor field work in varying terrain and weather conditions. Ability to travel regionally based on project need