Project Land Surveyor - Drone/LiDAR Specialist

Haley & Aldrich is seeking a Project Land Surveyor - Drone/LiDAR Specialist in Walnut Creek, CA. The role involves overseeing drone-based data collection, processing, and mapping for various projects. Responsibilities include planning drone flights, processing LiDAR data, collaborating with teams, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in surveying technologies. This is a full-time, hybrid position requiring fieldwork across the U.S.
As a company, we aim to build a world where communities go beyond resilience, embracing change as an opportunity to enhance safety, well-being, and quality of life. Join us to accelerate this vision and your professional development.

We are looking to add new talent to our growing team! We are currently seeking a skilled Project Land Surveyor with expertise in drone technology, LiDAR systems, and photogrammetry to join our team. As a Land Surveyor specializing in drone-based surveying, you will oversee and perform all phases of data collection, processing, and mapping using unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Your expertise will be instrumental in producing high-quality topographic surveys, orthophotos, and other geospatial products to support civil design, habitat restoration, and infrastructure projects. You will work closely with internal teams, clients, and regulatory agencies to ensure deliverables meet the highest standards of accuracy and compliance. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing group and company and get involved in a variety of projects for a diverse range of clients. This is a full-time, hybrid position located in Walnut Creek, CA office.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful candidate will:

Field Operations:
• Be expected to travel for fieldwork across project locations across the United States and its territories.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute drone flights for LiDAR and photogrammetric data collection, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and local requirements.
• Place and survey ground control points (GCPs) using GNSS/RTK technology tied to state plane coordinates and local monuments.
• Calibrate drones and associated sensors (LiDAR and cameras) for optimal performance during fieldwork.
• Conduct safety assessments and document flight operations.

Data Processing and Analysis:
• Process raw LiDAR data to produce accurate point clouds, digital elevation models (DEMs), and digital terrain models (DTMs).
• Develop orthorectified imagery for use as CAD or GIS backgrounds during design development.
• Integrate geospatial datasets into engineering and design workflows.
• Perform quality control to validate data accuracy against ground control and project specifications.
• Develop tools and workflows using programming languages such as Python to improve efficiency and innovation in LiDAR and drone surveying processes.

Collaboration and Reporting:
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, and design teams to provide survey data that supports project needs.
• Prepare clear and comprehensive maps, models, and technical reports for internal and client use.
• Assist with project scoping and budgeting for survey-related activities.
• Stay informed about advancements in drone and surveying technologies, recommending upgrades and improvements.
• Work within quality/budget/schedule expectations and scope-specific assignments.
• Be willing to assist in ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
• Communicate with subcontractors, regulatory agents, tenants, and clients during field activities.
• Perform all work in accordance with company and client Health & Safety protocols.
• Demonstrate our foundational safety behaviors.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE
• B.S. degree in Geology, Geography, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Data Science or related field; M.S. degree strongly preferred.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in surveying, with a focus on LiDAR and drone applications.
• Must have a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license in the state of California.
• Proven experience in drone-based surveying, including FAA Part 107 certification for commercial UAS operation.
• Proficiency with LiDAR systems, photogrammetry, and multispectral/thermal imaging.
• Expertise in GNSS/RTK technology for ground control setup and calibration.
• Knowledge of CAD (AutoCAD Civil 3D) and GIS software (ArcGIS, Global Mapper, or similar).
• Experience with data processing software such as Pix4D, or similar platforms.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and other relevant tools to improve survey workflows and data processing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, flexibility, and willingness to see projects through to completion is a must.
• Ability to review, compile and interpret data to prepare accurate site-models.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Proficient technical writing and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on a team and independently in a fast-paced consulting environment.
• Candidates will be required to examples of previous work demonstrating drone-based survey expertise.