Crew Chief

Company: Terra Engineering Ltd
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Summary/Objective Demonstrates strong knowledge and experience conducting a wide variety of surveys and operating survey equipment. Has a thorough understanding of the scope of assigned projects. Performs, supervises, and coordinates activities and related technical tasks to ensure work is completed within budget, on time, and meets technical specifications, company standards, municipal/jurisdictional requirements, and project obligations. Closely monitors budgets and schedules and develops solutions for concerns or delays. Essential Functions Set project scope of work definition and estimating surveying hours/fees for assigned projects Set up, adjust and operate survey equipment on work sites to obtain accurate information for assigned projects Measure and calculate data based on readings from the equipment; lay out and recover markings, stakes, and other signifiers Prepare and maintain accurate records and documentation Perform topographic surveys, mapping, and boundary surveys and transfer data into a compatible format for plotting using computer-assisted design software and equipment Research previous survey evidence, maps, deeds, physical evidence, and other records to obtain data needed for surveys Contribute to the implementation of new and alternate technologies Conduct Quality Assurance/Quality Control of collected information and address errors timely and efficiently; responsible for the work of the assigned crew Coordinate and assign field work and closely monitor budget hours and schedule for assigned projects/tasks and proactively address issues Proactively and effectively communicate with various team members to ensure that the proper plans and projects are completed according to the required priorities; delegate responsibilities as appropriate Communicate with clients and landowners on behalf of the company Supervise and train field crews; resolve more complex operating tasks and conflicts effectively Exercise sound judgment in the field regarding safety, operations, and technical expertise to meet field conditions Perform other duties as required Education/Experience High School diploma or equivalent required A.S. in land surveying or Certified Survey Technician strongly preferred 6 years of applicable experience (education or certification will be considered) Valid driver's license required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Effectively engages with professionals and clients in a multi-disciplinary environment, communicates with team members; builds relationships and trust Highly proficient with topographic and boundary surveys, and ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys Advanced knowledge of computer-aided design software and other PC software packages typically associated with engineering Proficient in general documentation software such as Microsoft Suite, Bluebeam, PowerPoint, etc. Strong knowledge and use of land surveying principles and instruments Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills Demonstrated ability to manage field projects, effectively leveraging experience and skills on increasingly complex assignments Effectively and proactively conveys information through verbal and written communication Has a strong sense of urgency and self-initiative Can effectively delegate work and motivate a team Ability to operate required survey equipment Effectively maintains office and field health & safety requirements and protocols Maintains a work schedule conducive to team collaboration and project-specific requirements Physical Requirements Requires primarily field work and exposure to outside weather and environmental conditions Requires long periods of driving or riding in a vehicle and performing physical activities including stooping, crouching, crawling, and lifting/carrying up to 30 pounds several times a day This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties and/or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time. Please note that sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this position. About TERRA Engineering TERRA Engineering, Ltd. was founded by Karen Steingraber and Jamil Bou-Saab in 1992, beginning their journey building strong relationships with clients. In 2000, Senior Vice President George Ghareeb joined the team and began overseeing operations in a then-newly opened office in Peoria, Illinois. Since then, TERRA has continued expanding our reach to broaden our markets and serve additional communities, adding offices in St. Louis (2011), Milwaukee (2013), and Bolingbrook, Illinois (2025). We are proud of our 115 employees who contribute their talent and skills to TERRA’s success. As we continue to grow, we maintain a strong focus on the development of our team members through mentorship, collaboration, and the continual refining of our collective body of knowledge. At TERRA Engineering, our mission of enhancing communities starts from within. TERRA Provides: Competitive compensation packages including bonus program, paid holidays and time off Comprehensive healthcare benefits Retirement plan options with safe harbor match and profit sharing Hybrid/Flexible work arrangements for most positions Public transportation reimbursement (Chicago-area employees) A warm culture that is conducive to growth and professional development And more! In accordance with local law, the estimated salary range is applicable to the position and location associated with this posting. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors. The employment policy of TERRA Engineering, Ltd. is to provide equal opportunity to all persons. Our company, therefore, has made a commitment to equal employment opportunity through a positive and continuing affirmative action program. No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military and/or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. TERRA Engineering, Ltd. will recruit, hire, train and promote qualified individuals in all job titles, and ensure that all other personnel actions are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, military and/or veteran status, or disability in accordance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, which require affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. TERRA Engineering, Ltd. does not discriminate on the basis of national origin or citizenship status as provided under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Notice to Third Party Agencies TERRA does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to TERRA in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where TERRA has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of TERRA and TERRA will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation – no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. LI-CB1

Keywords: Terra Engineering Ltd, Chicago , Crew Chief, Engineering , Chicago, Illinois