Survey Operations and Technical Manager

We seek to move the world forward through innovative thinking.
Woolpert is an award‑winning, global leader in architecture, engineering, and geospatial services. We blend design excellence with cutting‑edge technology to deliver exceptional client value, and as a certified Great Place to Work®, we embrace progress and innovation to create limitless opportunities for career growth.
As part of Woolpert, Murphy Geospatial – A Woolpert Company contributes deep geospatial expertise across Europe, supporting complex infrastructure, property, manufacturing, utilities, and natural‑environment projects through world‑class data capture, verification, and governance.
Position Overview
We are currently seeking an Operations & Survey Technical Manager to join our Survey UAV Department. This is a key leadership role responsible for the operational and technical management of our Topographical Survey and Mobile Mapping services.
Reporting to the Head of Department, the successful candidate will oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of survey projects, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and client satisfaction. Acting as the link between field teams, office-based processing staff, and clients, you will play a critical role in delivering projects on time, within budget, and to specification while supporting the continued growth and development of the department.
What You Will Do
Lead the day-to-day operations of our Topographical Survey and Mobile Mapping teams
Plan and coordinate survey crew schedules, resource allocation, and project staffing
Monitor project progress and proactively resolve operational challenges
Manage project mobilisation, logistics, risk assessments, and compliance requirements
Act as the main point of contact for clients throughout project delivery, providing updates and responding to technical and operational queries
Oversee the full project lifecycle from site works and data capture through processing, QA, and final delivery
Coordinate workflows between field teams, processing teams, and subcontractors
Provide technical guidance and support to surveyors, mobile mapping operators, and processing personnel
Ensure project information is accurately maintained within project management systems
Drive quality assurance processes and ensure deliverables meet client and company standards
Develop and maintain operational procedures, workflows, and best practices
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, performance, and project delivery processes
Support tendering activities, project estimating, resource forecasting, and departmental growth initiatives
Promote the wider Murphy Geospatial service offering when engaging with clients
Lead recruitment, onboarding, mentoring, and performance management activities within the department
Dedicate time to staff development, technical training, and succession planning initiatives
Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performing team culture
Support multi-disciplinary projects across the wider business where required
What You Will Bring
Degree or equivalent qualification in Surveying, Geospatial, Engineering, or a related discipline
Proven experience managing surveying, geospatial, mobile mapping, or similar technical operations
Strong understanding of topographical surveying, mobile mapping, data capture, processing workflows, and project delivery
Experience managing multiple projects, teams, and competing priorities simultaneously
Demonstrated ability to lead operational planning, resource allocation, and project execution
Strong client-facing experience with ability to build long-term relationships and manage stakeholder expectations
Experience overseeing quality assurance processes and maintaining technical standards
Knowledge of health and safety requirements relevant to field operations
Experience supporting tender submissions, budgeting, forecasting, or commercial activities
Previous people management, coaching, or mentoring experience
Key Attributes
Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and support teams
Excellent organisational and planning abilities with a proactive approach to problem solving
Commercial awareness with the ability to balance operational delivery and business objectives
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage changing priorities
Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement
Passion for developing people and promoting technical excellence
Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across operational, technical, and commercial teams
Adaptable and solutions-focused with a commitment to delivering exceptional client outcomes
Benefits You Will Love
At Murphy Geospatial – A Woolpert Company, you’ll join a collaborative and innovative team where your expertise makes a real impact. Our benefits include:
Competitive salary with a comprehensive benefits package aligned to your experience
Access to cutting‑edge geospatial technology and industry‑leading tools
Flexible working options designed to support work–life balance
Enhanced wellbeing support, including employee assistance initiatives
Opportunities within a growing, globally connected organisation through our partnership with Woolpert
Earn the opportunity to become an owner of the firm.
Performance‑related bonus scheme that rewards your contribution
Equal Employment Opportunity
Woolpert is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to full inclusion of all individuals. We recruit, train, and promote without regard to protected characteristics. For more information, see our EEO resources.
Applicants requiring accommodation during recruitment may contact MGS.talentteam@woolpert.com
Agency Notice
Please do not contact any employee of Woolpert or its subsidiaries about this requisition. Agencies not engaged by the Woolpert Talent Acquisition Team will not be eligible for fee payment.

Employment type
Permanent

Work arrangement
No