As a survey instrument operator, your duties are to assist a surveying or construction crew in assessing the topography and geography of a building site or parcel of land. As the instrument operator, your main responsibilities are to calibrate and operate a variety of specialized surveying equipment, such as a theodolite, transit and leveling devices, and GPS tools. You measure the boundary of the area as well as other features, taking notes as you survey. You collect data and give it to the builders, contractors, or survey leaders.