Survey Crew Chief
Cardinal Land Surveying | Woodland, California
Position Summary
At Cardinal Land Surveying, we believe in Precision with Purpose. Our work is built on technical excellence, honest communication, and a commitment to serving our clients and communities with integrity. We are seeking a Survey Crew Chief who leads by example, values accuracy and accountability, and takes pride in delivering dependable survey solutions in the field.
The Survey Crew Chief is responsible for planning and executing field surveying operations, leading survey crews, maintaining a safe and productive work environment, and ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and professionalism. This role serves as a critical link between field operations, project management, and our clients.
What You'll Do
Lead Field Operations
- Direct and supervise survey crews on boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS, construction staking, control, and as-built surveys.
- Ensure field work is completed safely, efficiently, and accurately.
- Interpret survey plans, maps, legal descriptions, and project specifications.
- Establish and verify survey control networks.
- Identify and resolve field challenges while maintaining project schedules.
Deliver Quality and Precision
- Collect, verify, and document field data using GNSS, robotic total stations, digital levels, and other survey equipment.
- Perform quality checks to ensure data accuracy and completeness.
- Maintain detailed field notes and documentation.
- Coordinate with office staff to ensure seamless data transfer and project execution.
Lead People and Represent Cardinal
- Mentor and develop survey technicians and crew members.
- Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
- Communicate clearly with clients, contractors, engineers, public agencies, and property owners.
- Represent Cardinal Land Surveying with professionalism and respect in every interaction.
Maintain Equipment and Safety
- Ensure proper care, calibration, and maintenance of survey equipment and vehicles.
- Follow company safety procedures and promote a proactive safety culture.
- Conduct daily equipment and vehicle inspections.
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of field surveying experience.
- 2+ years of experience leading a survey crew.
- Strong understanding of boundary, topographic, construction, and control surveying principles.
- Proficiency with modern survey equipment, including GNSS and robotic total stations.
- Ability to read and interpret construction plans, maps, legal descriptions, and survey records.
- Valid California driver's license with a clean driving record.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications
- California LSIT certification.
- Experience with Trimble survey equipment and software.
- Knowledge of California surveying laws and standards.
- Experience with drone-based surveying and mapping workflows.
The Cardinal Way
At Cardinal Land Surveying, technical competence matters—but character matters just as much. We look for professionals who embody the values that guide how we work every day.
Precision with Purpose
We pursue accuracy because it matters. Every stake set, boundary resolved, and survey delivered impacts real people, projects, and communities.
Integrity Before Convenience
We do the right thing, even when it is more difficult, takes more time, or requires uncomfortable conversations.
Clarity through Communication
We communicate openly, professionally, and respectfully. Clients, teammates, and stakeholders should never be left guessing about project status, expectations, or challenges.
Commitment to Community
Our work helps shape the places where people live, work, and build. We take pride in serving our clients and strengthening the communities we call home.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- Paid time off and company holidays
- Retirement plan opportunities
- Professional development and continuing education support
- Company vehicle opportunities based on role and responsibility
- Opportunities for advancement within a growing firm
Why Cardinal?
Cardinal Land Surveying is building a modern surveying firm rooted in timeless principles. We believe exceptional surveying requires more than technical skill—it requires integrity, accountability, and a genuine commitment to serving others.
If you take pride in your craft, enjoy solving complex challenges, and want to be part of a team that values Precision with Purpose, we'd like to hear from you.
Cardinal Land Surveying is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
