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Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Team Fishel

Survey Instrument Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Survey Instrument Operators at Team Fishel assist the Survey Crew Leader on projects by performing all related work to conducting surveys. Responsibilities * Using GPS equipment to set control ...

National Grid

Instrument Operator A

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$47.23/hr

The Instrument Operator A works under the direction of a Survey Party Chief or Supervisor to support land, right-of-way, topographic, and construction surveys. This role is responsible for operating ...

National Grid

Instrument Operator A

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$47.23/hr

The Instrument Operator A works under the direction of a Survey Party Chief or Supervisor to support land, right-of-way, topographic, and construction surveys. This role is responsible for operating ...

Tesoro Group

Instrument Operator - Renewables

Plano, TX · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated Land Survey Instrument Operator to join our client's team and deliver exceptional surveying services to internal and external clients. Salary: $80,000-100,000 Travel ...

Ardurra

Survey Instrument Operator

Mesa, AZ

The Survey Instrument Operator I will be trained to operate various types of Survey equipment, including electronic total stations, GPS base stations and receivers, data collectors (survey ...

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Instrument Operator information

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How much do instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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?

An Instrument Operator is responsible for managing and operating surveying instruments and equipment in the field. They assist surveyors and engineers by setting up, calibrating, and maintaining devices such as total stations, GPS units, and levels. Their work ensures precise measurements for mapping, construction, and land development projects. Instrument Operators often work outdoors and must be detail-oriented to guarantee accuracy in all measurements taken.

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 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 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.

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Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrument Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. 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.
Survey Instrument Operator

Survey Instrument Operator

Brudis & Associates, Inc.

Columbia, MD • On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Survey Instrument Operator

BRUDIS & ASSOCIATES, INC. (BAI) is a multidiscipline engineering firm providing consulting services to public and private sector clients in the Maryland, District of Columbia and Virginia region. Since 1992, BAI has provided comprehensive, innovative and effective solutions to our clients’ transportation and infrastructure needs.

BAI is actively seeking qualified candidates for a Survey Instrument Operator to join our Land Surveying Department in our Columbia, Maryland office.

Job Summary:

The Survey Instrument Operator will work under the direction of the Director of Land Surveying and Survey Party Chief. The individual shall demonstrate an ability to collaboratively work with the Land Survey Department on a wide-range of small or large scale multi-discipline projects for state, county, or local jurisdictions. The job requires analytical thinking, adaptive and independent problem solving, creativity, context interpretation, innovation, and ability to utilize survey technology, knowledge, and theory to complete task assignments. Employee shall be dependable, punctual, open-minded, focused, and attentive to details including: project schedules, budgets, safety, and survey quality.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to; Assisting the Survey Party Chief with the care of all survey equipment including a survey vehicle as well as assisting with the execution of safe field operations, performance of ALTA/NSPS land title surveys, boundary surveys, construction stakeout, topographic and hydrographic/bathymetric surveys, control surveys, and many more. Will be responsible for Leading the Survey Party on simpler tasks in the field in the absence of the Survey Party Chief.  The typical workday schedule will be from 6:30 am until 3:30 pm but may change due to weather and other factors.   Schedule will be at the discretion of the Director of Land Surveying / Field Coordinator and based on the needs of each project.

Knowledge, Skills and Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED, or proven work experience that shows maturity and dependability.  
  • Minimum of two (2) years of experience in Land Surveying as an Instrument Operator, four (4) years is preferred.  Applicants with relevant experience could also be considered at the discretion of the Director of Land Surveying.  The nature of the applicants’ progressive experience will be considered in those cases on an individual basis.
  • Ability to work independently and support the Survey Party Chief with minimal direction.
  • Ability to perform survey work according to directions provided by the Director of Land Surveying and the Survey Party Chief.
  • Ability to produce legible and comprehensive survey field notes and sketches.
  • An understanding of mathematics including Geometry and Trigonometry.
  • Ability to be flexible and support changes in work hours or be available for out-of-town work as may be necessary based on the needs of a project.
  • Proficiency with RTK GNSS and Robotic Total Stations as well as data collectors.  Trimble is preferred but not required.
  • Familiarity with scanning/lidar technologies is preferred.
  • Ability work and communicate in environments with excessive noise and distractions.
  • Commendable work ethic and commitment to deadlines
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and self-motivation
  • Possess a valid driver’s license.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

  • The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. This role requires standing and walking for prolonged periods outdoors on varied terrain, including hills, slopes, streams, swamps, paved and unpaved surfaces.
  • Work may occur on land or water, including boats or rafts. Familiarity with boats and experience on the water is preferred.
  • The role requires the ability to use hands and arms to handle equipment, operate computer devices, bend, reach, crouch, and safely climb ladders or scaffolding.
  • The employee must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds for distances of up to 500 feet in varied environments.
  • The position involves working outdoors in all types of weather and may involve exposure to loud noise levels. 

Job Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt
Salary Range:  $21.00 - $30.00 per hour

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits:
This position has excellent potential for career advancement. We proudly offer an attractive salary package commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, tuition reimbursement, company health, dental, vision, life and disability insurances as well as a 401k plan with company matching.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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