SINCE 1976, CANNON has provided creative solutions to clients in the energy industry, water resources, public infrastructure, and commercial and residential development. We work hard. We play hard. We have fun. 

JOIN CANNON as a Land Survey - Party Chief in our SAN LUIS OBISPO office.  San Luis Obispo is on the beautiful central coast of California, has scenic beaches, is surrounded by the wine country, and offers endless recreational opportunities.  

Land Survey – Party Chief Job Summary

Under the general supervision of the Survey Manager the Land Survey Party Chief is responsible for leading a field survey crew in the collection of accurate survey data for boundary, topographic, construction, control, utility, and right-of-way projects. This position serves as the field lead, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project requirements, company standards, and professional surveying practices.

Land Survey - Party Chief Job Duties

• Lead and direct a field survey crew in performing a variety of surveying assignments.
• Plan daily field activities to meet project schedules and objectives.
• Operate and oversee the use of survey equipment, including GNSS/GPS receivers, robotic total stations, digital levels, data collectors, scanners, and other survey technology.
• Perform boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS, construction staking, as-built, control, utility, and right-of-way surveys.
• Establish and verify horizontal and vertical control networks.
• Ensure field measurements, observations, and documentation are accurate, complete, and comply with project requirements.
• Review field data for quality assurance and identify discrepancies or issues requiring resolution.
• Coordinate with project managers, licensed surveyors, engineers, contractors, utility representatives, and clients regarding field activities.
• Maintain field notes, survey records, photographs, and project documentation.
• Ensure survey equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and secured.
• Implement and enforce company safety policies and safe work practices.
• Train, mentor, and develop survey technicians.
• Identify potential field issues and communicate solutions proactively to project management.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of surveying principles, practices, and procedures.
• Proficiency with modern survey equipment and software.
• Ability to interpret maps, plans, legal descriptions, subdivision maps, and construction documents.
• Knowledge of boundary surveying, control surveys, construction staking, and topographic mapping.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to lead crews, manage workloads, and maintain productivity.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D

• High school diploma or equivalent; coursework in surveying, geomatics, engineering technology, or related field preferred.
• 5 years or more of progressively responsible surveying field experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading survey crews.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• LSIT certification preferred; progression toward professional licensure encouraged.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain.
• Ability to lift and carry survey equipment and supplies.
• Ability to work near traffic, construction activities, and remote project sites.

Key Performance Expectations

•  Safe and efficient completion of field assignments.
• Accurate and complete data collection.
• Effective crew leadership and development.
• Strong communication with project teams and clients.
• Consistent adherence to quality control standards.
• Reliable project execution that supports schedule and budget objectives.

WE OFFER competitive salaries, relocation assistance, excellent benefits package, and an active and positive team building, work environment.

Cannon is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age.