Become a Land Surveyor with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a skilled surveying professional looking to transition into a high-impact federal role? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently hiring for a Land Surveyor in Portland, Oregon. This position is ideal for individuals who combine technical survey expertise with a desire to contribute to national infrastructure and navigation safety.
Job Responsibilities
As a Land Surveyor, you will serve as the technical authority for the Portland District’s surveying requirements. Your duties will include:
- Overseeing and administering surveying contracts, ensuring all work meets rigorous technical standards.
- Performing and supervising a wide array of surveys, including geodetic, hydrographic, topographic, and ultra-precise alignment surveys.
- Coordinating mapping unit activities across multiple project management teams.
- Conducting QA reviews for architect-engineer (A-E) performed surveys.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Bachelor's degree in Land Surveying or Civil Engineering with a surveying emphasis.
- Licensure: Current registration as a professional land surveyor in a U.S. state, territory, or DC.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Submission: A resume of two pages or less that clearly articulates your experience with surveying projects.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | B.S. in Surveying or Civil Engineering |
| Certification | Professional Land Surveyor License |
| Specialized Exp | 1 Year at GS-11 level |
| Resume Length | 2 Pages Max |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $96,443 to $125,378, commensurate with experience and federal pay scale regulations.
Benefits
Employees of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers enjoy access to industry-leading federal benefits, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance programs.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Potential for recruitment/relocation bonuses and student loan repayment options.
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: The two-page resume limit is non-negotiable. Focus on results and specific specialized experience.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all transcripts and licenses are included; missing documents result in an immediate "ineligible" rating.
- Prepare for Assessments: The USA Hire assessment is a required component of your application. Plan your time accordingly.
If you are ready to apply your surveying expertise to projects that protect and sustain our nation's infrastructure, apply for this Land Surveyor position today. Join USACE and build your future while helping us build a stronger, more resilient country.
Why This Land Surveyor Job Matters
Shape the future of Pacific Northwest infrastructure as a lead Land Surveyor with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Land Surveyor Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a technical expert to serve as a Land Surveyor in the Portland, Oregon area. This pivotal role involves overseeing complex surveying projects—including boundary, engineering, geodetic, and hydrographic surveys—to ensure the accuracy and success of the District's infrastructure and construction programs. You will act as the primary advisor on survey contracts and lead mapping initiatives, playing a direct role in maintaining the integrity of our national navigation and development projects.
Requirements for Land Surveyor
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be able to pass a background check and suitability determination.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Must hold a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in land surveying or civil engineering with a surveying emphasis.
- Alternatively, hold a current registration as a professional land surveyor in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must complete a two-page maximum resume addressing specialized experience.
- Selective Service registration for male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Land Surveyor
- Experience in hydrographic and ultra-precise alignment surveys.
- Strong project coordination skills within a professional engineering environment.
- Proven track record in administering technical contracts and performing contractor Quality Assurance.
- Advanced proficiency in GIS integration and modern mapping technologies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Federal Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid Annual and Sick Leave
- ✓Potential for Recruitment or Relocation Incentives
- ✓Possibility of Student Loan Repayment assistance
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth
💡 How to Apply Land Surveyor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Land Surveyor Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement for detailed documentation requirements.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, focusing on specialized surveying experience.
- Submit your application through the official USA Staffing portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessment when prompted via email.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including transcripts and professional certifications.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; exceeding this will result in automatic disqualification.
- Use plain, clear language and avoid vague acronyms when describing your past projects.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one year of 'time-in-grade' if you are a current federal employee.
- Double-check that all professional licenses or education transcripts are attached, as missing these will mark your application as incomplete.
- Set aside at least two hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this position?
The role centers on acting as a subject matter expert for all engineering, boundary, and hydrographic surveys within the Portland District, including contract oversight and team coordination.
Is telework allowed for this position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Your application will be automatically removed from consideration; adherence to the page limit is strictly enforced.
Is relocation assistance offered?
While PCS costs are not authorized, relocation incentives may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What is the security clearance for this role?
This position is non-sensitive and does not require a security clearance.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the nation’s premier engineering and construction management agency. We deliver innovative solutions that support economic growth, bolster national security, and mitigate disaster risks. When you join USACE, you become part of a collaborative, purpose-driven community dedicated to engineering excellence.