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Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Instrument Operator

Brainard, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

Instrument Operator

Victory Mills, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Bryan, TX ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Instrument Operator operates and maintains all survey equipment, work under the direction of the Party Chief, collects and downloads survey data, directs loading and storage of equipment and ...

Instrument Operator

Stuyvesant, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

Instrument Operator

Watervliet, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Delanson, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

North Pownal, VT ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Malden Bridge, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

Instrument Operator

Alplaus, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Medusa, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

Instrument Operator

Schuylerville, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

Instrument Operator

Latham, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Schoharie, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Alcove, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

Instrument Operator

Feura Bush, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

Instrument Operator

Hagaman, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

New

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Instrument Operator information

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$14

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$31

How much do instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument operator in the United States is $21.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Instrument Operator Do?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Instrument Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instrument Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a relevant technical diploma or certification in instrumentation or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard measurement devices, calibration equipment, and data logging systems is typically required. Effective problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help address technical issues and ensure smooth operations. These abilities are crucial for maintaining precise measurements, ensuring equipment reliability, and supporting overall process efficiency in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges faced by an Instrument Operator in the field, and how can they be managed?

Instrument Operators often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and the need for precise data collection under tight deadlines. Successfully managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective troubleshooting skills, and clear communication with team members and supervisors. Staying up to date with equipment maintenance protocols and being adaptable in dynamic field environments are also key to ensuring accurate results and project success.

What is the difference between Instrument Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectInstrument OperatorPump Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or licenses related to instrumentationOften requires certifications for operating and maintaining pumps
Work EnvironmentWorks in industrial plants, refineries, or manufacturing facilities with instrumentation systemsWorks in industrial, water treatment, or oil & gas facilities operating pumps
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, oil & gas, and chemical industriesCommon in oil & gas, water treatment, and power generation industries

Both roles involve operating equipment in industrial settings, but Instrument Operators focus on managing instrumentation systems, while Pump Operators specialize in operating and maintaining pumps. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role based on their skills and certifications.

What cities are hiring for Instrument Operator jobs? Cities with the most Instrument Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Instrument Operator jobs? The top employers for Instrument Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Instrument Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Instrument Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Instrument Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Instrument Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Instrument Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,383 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Instrument Operator

Instrument Operator

C.T. Male Associates

Schodack Landing, NY โ€ข On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Location: Latham, NY, US 12110 Job Type: Full Time Job Classification: Hourly Exemption Type: Non-Exempt Education: High School Diploma / GED Travel: Up to 100% Description

Are you interested in growing your survey skills and working in the outdoors? C.T. Male Associates, a multi-discipline surveying, engineering, environmental, and architectural firm in the Northeast, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to join our team in Latham, NY.

What Youll Do:

  • Perform boundary, topographic, and construction surveys under direct supervision of a Crew Chief, contributing to a variety of projects.
  • Operate and maintain a variety of surveying instruments, such as Data Collectors, Total Stations, GPS, 3D Laser Scanners, drones, and other equipment.
  • Perform mathematical calculations to establish and locate reference points, property corners, and line staking construction projects.
  • Interpret maps, plats, plans, and specifications.

Pay Range: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour, paid weekly, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Requirements

What Were Looking For:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Previous experience in Survey or a related field is preferred.
  • Valid drivers license.
  • Ability to obtain training certifications as needed.
  • Must be willing to work out of town within approximately three (3) hours of the Albany area (paid travel and per-diem).
  • Ability to comfortably lift up to seventy-five (75) pounds of equipment and walk several feet.

Benefits & Perks:

  • Competitive salary & performance-based bonuses.
  • Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement, etc.).
  • Professional development support (training, conferences, certifications).

Come join a company where your talents and motivations are rewarded.

EOE, including disability/veterans.

Compensation details: 20-25 Hourly Wage

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