Field Surveyor
Full Time | Lafayette, IN | $48,000 – $57,000 Annually
About Chastain and Associates
Chastain specializes in building and enhancing infrastructure, offering comprehensive services ranging from the design and construction inspection of transportation highways, roadways, and bridges to the engineering of civil site developments. Our mission is to unite communities by creating sustainable, innovative, and well-crafted environments where people can live, work, and play.
We offer competitive salaries and benefits based on education and experience, and we are committed to helping early-career surveyors grow into licensed professionals. That means hands-on mentorship, a structured path toward PLS licensure, and company-covered exam fees for qualifying credentials. We also offer flexible work hours, a hybrid work plan, and generous paid time off.
Role Summary
We are hiring a Field Surveyor to work alongside and under the guidance of our Field Surveyor Lead. This is an entry-level to early-career role designed for someone eager to build practical field skills across a broad range of survey disciplines. You will be mentored on every project, given increasing responsibility as your skills develop, and supported on a clear path toward professional licensure.
This is primarily a field-based position. Expect early starts, varied terrain, and outdoor work in all seasons. Office time for drafting and research is part of the role, but the field is where you will spend most of your time.
Responsibilities
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Assist the Survey Lead with field surveys including topographic, boundary, ALTA, construction layout, control surveys, and R/W surveys.
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Participating in survey research and staking calculations as part of structured on-the-job training.
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Traveling to project sites and assisting with setup, equipment operation, and field data collection under the direction of the Survey Lead.
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Operate field equipment under supervision, developing proficiency with Trimble Robotic Total Stations, GPS/GNSS systems, and data collectors.
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Collect, record, and organize accurate field measurements and notes.
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Assist with field note write-ups, drafting and project documentation using AutoCAD Civil 3D and Trimble Business Center
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Carrying out assigned field tasks independently as your skills and confidence develop, with the lead available for guidance and quality review.
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Follow all safety protocols and site procedures in varied field conditions.
Qualifications
Experience
0–2 years of field surveying or related experience. Prior exposure to survey field work is a plus; a strong work ethic and eagerness to learn matter most at this stage.
Education & Certification
Degree or coursework in Land Surveying, Geomatics, or a closely related field is preferred. CST (Certified Survey Technician) or FS (Fundamentals of Surveying) certification is a plus, or a willingness to pursue certification early in employment. The long-term goal for this role is advancement toward LS (Licensed Surveyor) — Chastain covers qualifying exam fees and actively supports that path.
Technical Skills
Basic familiarity with AutoCAD or field data collection software is helpful; full training on Trimble Business Center, AutoCAD Civil 3D, and Trimble field systems will be provided. Comfort learning new technology hands-on is essential.
Work Style
Ability to take clear direction, ask good questions, and follow through reliably. You should be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, be physically capable of extended field work on varied terrain, and be eager to build skills over time rather than looking for a role where everything is already figured out.
Physical Requirements
This role requires sustained outdoor work in varying weather conditions and across uneven terrain. Candidates must be able to stand, walk, and assist with equipment over extended periods. A valid driver's license is required.
Growth & Development
This role is designed as a launchpad, not a destination. Chastain's team includes surveyors at every stage of their career. As a Field Surveyor, you can expect:
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Hands-on mentorship from your Survey Lead on every project.
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Exposure to diverse survey disciplines: ALTA, boundary, R/W, topographic, construction, and more.
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Company-paid exam fees for CST, FS, and support toward LS licensure.
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A defined path toward the Field Surveyor Lead role as your credentials and experience develop.
Chastain and Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Compensation is commensurate with experience and education.
