Marine Principal Surveyor or Above - San Francisco
Eagle Foundation
San Francisco, CA · Posted October 21, 2026
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How AI is used in this kind of work
AI use among transportation inspectors is little observed so far. Measured exposure for transportation inspectors: 0% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
About the job
The Principal Surveyor’s primary role is to directly perform survey activities in accordance with ABS Rules, Guides, and all statutory requirements; while acting as a peer leader, knowledge resource, coach, and overall survey process expert at the port, station, or field site level. This position also supports the “In Charge” supervisor in planning and managing survey activities and the training, guidance, and development of more junior surveyors.
What You Will Do:
Directly execute and support safe and efficient survey activities to meet business outcomes related to service delivery, labor/productivity, budget, quality, policy, compliance, training, development, and safety.
Execute and safely support the Survey & Certification Core Process as an individual contributor and peer leader/resource.
Acts as a professional specialist for the organization in applying related rules, regulations, requirements, concepts, principles, and processes.
Assist the “In Charge” surveyor in planning, scheduling, and coordinating the various phases of surveying activities and monitor the quality-of-service delivery, including reviews of survey reports.
Assists in recommending short- and long-term manpower planning needs for qualified, trained survey staff based on the projected business.
Promote a culture of safety and safe working conditions.
Maintain awareness of changes and development in service delivery or technical issues affecting present and potential customers and communicate this information promptly to the appropriate supervisory/management level.
Support the performance and development of junior surveyors through direct coaching, mentorship, training, monitoring, and performance feedback.
Promotes the services and capabilities of ABS to present and potential customers through survey operational activities and interaction.
Maintain relationships with local Port State authorities.
Quality System in assigned area of responsibility. Support the non-survey-related key Core Processes as needed for organizational success.
What You Will Need:
Education and Experience
Qualifications from a tertiary institution within a relevant field of engineering or physical science (minimum two (2) years program).
Qualifications from a marine or nautical institution and relevant seagoing experience as a certificated ship officer.
Typically, three (3) years of experience working as a Senior Surveyor.
Typically, two (2) years of experience on international assignments or significant exposure to international projects and processes.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated expertise in effectively executing surveys across various disciplines.
Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and have an extensive understanding of marine and/or offshore shipbuilding and construction practices, engineering systems, structure, and vessel operations.
Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving ability with the skill to propose and convey solutions effectively.
Client/Customer service-focused demeanor with the ability to build relationships supporting business development.
Excellent communication skills and English fluency, both written and verbal, with the ability to conduct detailed technical and business communication/interaction in a professional role.
Knowledge of metrics-based performance concepts and the ability to manage key performance indicators to meet business outcomes.
Ability to learn the ABS Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental Management Systems.
Physical Requirements:
Where allowed by local laws, a pre-employment physical examination is mandatory.
The role of surveyor/auditor requires sufficient physical strength, stamina, agility, and both visual and auditory acuity to perform the listed duties effectively.
The ability to climb vertical ladders up to nine meters and navigate steep steps is essential.
Shall be capable of working at heights on various staging and lifting equipment.
Shall be able to maneuver in tight spaces and work inside confined areas for extended periods, including kneeling and crawling.
The role may involve exposure to industrial environments, potential injury risks, extreme weather conditions, and demanding physical activities.
Shall be able to lift at least 25 lbs. / 11.34 kgs.
The use of small tools and the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), in accordance with ABS safety procedures, may be required.
Where allowed by local laws, the surveyor will be required to successfully complete an annual physical that will recertify that the individual can perform the physical actions required.
Reporting Relationships:
Works under the direction of the “In Charge” Surveyor as assigned. May work under the direction of Area, Regional, or Hemisphere Operations Leadership as required by the business.
Salary:
$125k - 160k
Notice:
This position requires access to information that is subject to control by the Export Administration Regulations and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Any offer of employment shall be contingent upon the Company’s verification that the candidate is a “U.S. Person” or upon the receipt of all necessary export licenses or authorizations that may be required by U.S. export control laws. “U.S. Persons” are defined as U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents (i.e., “green card” holders), or any individual granted protected status under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)), including asylees and refugees. In the event a candidate refuses or cannot otherwise provide the necessary information for the Company to determine whether such licenses may be required, or for the Company to obtain any required licenses, the Company shall maintain the exclusive right to discontinue the application process and/or withdraw any contingent offer that has been made.
We set out more than 160 years ago to promote the security of life and property at sea and preserve the natural environment. Today, we remain true to our mission and continue to support organizations facing a rapidly evolving seascape of challenging regulations and new technologies. Through it all, we are anchored by a vision and mission that help our clients find clarity in uncertain times.
ABS is a global leader in marine and offshore classification and other innovative safety, quality, and environmental services. We’re at the forefront of supporting the global energy transition at sea, the application of remote and autonomous marine systems, cutting-edge technical solutions, and many more exciting advancements. Our commitment to safety, reliability, and efficiency is ever-present, guiding our clients to safer and more efficient operations.
About Our Benefits
ABS Bureau proudly offers a variety of industry-leading benefits designed to enhance the life and well-being of our employees and their families. These benefits include, but are not limited to, medical insurance (PPO and HD), dental and vision insurance, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Savings Account (FSA), life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, disability leave programs, parental leave program, paid holidays, and paid vacation time. The Company provides an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) that offers support in personal wellness, including work-life services. ABS Bureau also offers a 401K plan with a generous company match, subject to plan requirements.
Equal Opportunity
ABS Bureau is committed to the equal employment opportunity of its employees and prohibits discrimination against any employee or qualified applicant based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status or veteran status, or other non-work-related characteristics that may be protected under the law of the Federal Government or specific state employment laws.
Notice
ABS and Affiliated Companies (ABS) will not pay a fee to any third-party agency without a valid ABS Master Service Agreement (MSA) authorized and signed by Human Resources. Any resume, CV, application, or other forms of candidate submission provided to any employee of ABS without a valid MSA on file will be considered property of ABS, and no fee will be paid.
Other
This job description is not intended, and should not be construed, to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job of the incumbent. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the principal job elements essential for making a fair decision regarding the pay structure of the job. #ogjs