Party Chief

Job Description QUALIFICATIONSEducation and Experience:High School Diploma or equivalent and at least two (2) years of demonstrated competency in construction surveying with a strong emphasis on construction layout and field operations.NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONSValid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required. OSHA 10 certification required or ability to obtain. FAA Part 107 Drone License required or ability to obtain. Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions and maintain field operations on active construction sites.OverviewSUMMARYThe Survey Party Chief – Construction leads field survey operations supporting heavy civil, roadway, bridge, utility, and building construction projects. This role is responsible for performing and overseeing construction layout activities, establishing survey control, and ensuring that field data collection and layout are performed accurately and efficiently.The Survey Party Chief works closely with contractors, project managers, and survey staff to maintain accurate project layout, ensure compliance with plans and specifications, and support construction schedules. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the accuracy, safety, and efficiency of active construction projects.ResponsibilitiesRESPONSIBILITIESLead and supervise day-to-day field operations for construction surveying and layout projectsPerform construction layout for roadway, bridge, utility, and building projects including control, offsets, grades, and as-built verificationEstablish, verify, and maintain horizontal and vertical control using GPS and total station equipmentCoordinate directly with contractors, superintendents, and project managers to support construction schedules and field needsPerform field calculations and layout adjustments to maintain accuracy and constructabilityCollect, review, and verify field data to ensure quality and completeness before submissionMaintain clear and organized field notes, stake reports, and as-built documentationAssist with troubleshooting field layout conflicts and construction issues as they ariseTrain and mentor junior field staff and survey crew members on procedures and best practicesMaintain assigned survey vehicle, equipment, and tools to ensure proper function and readinessCommunicate regularly with LIS management to coordinate manpower, field needs, and production efficiencyCompetencies (KSACs)Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and CompetenciesKnowledge of:Construction surveying principles and staking proceduresConstruction drawings, profiles, and specificationsSurvey control establishment and verification methodsSafety practices for operating on active construction sitesSkilled in:Construction layout using GPS, robotic total stations, and data collectorsReading and interpreting civil construction plans and specificationsPerforming field calculations and maintaining accurate field documentationSupervising field crews and coordinating with construction personnelAbility to:Work independently in field environments with minimal supervisionCommunicate effectively with contractors, inspectors, engineers, and internal teamsSolve field layout challenges quickly and accurately on active job sitesManage multiple field responsibilities while maintaining accuracy and safetyWork varying schedules including early mornings and occasional overtimeBenefits & PerksBENEFITS AND PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIESEmployees of L.I. Smith & Associates are provided with competitive compensation and benefits designed to support professional growth, financial stability, and work-life balance.Competitive, bi-weekly pay with full benefitsMedical, dental, and vision benefits (LIS pays 64% of employee medical premiums)Retirement plan with 3% company matchChildcare stipendCompany provided life insuranceWork on large-scale, high-impact construction projects across TennesseeBe part of a respected, field-first survey team that supports each otherOpportunities to grow into senior leadership, layout specialization, or advanced technology rolesSupport for industry training and certificationsA company that values safety, accuracy, accountability, and the people doing the workEligibility for benefits depends on the type of position held and whether the position is full-time, part-time, or contract.About L.I. Smith & AssociatesL.I. Smith & Associates, Inc. (LIS) is a full-service civil engineering and land surveying firm serving public and private clients throughout Tennessee. With offices in Paris and Nashville, LIS is known for its technical excellence, collaborative culture, and commitment to delivering accurate, high-quality work both in the office and in the field.