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Instrument Person Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Instrument Person will perform the daily operations pertaining to pipeline surveying, take instructions from Party Chief on a daily basis, instruct crew members, run GPS and Total Station ...

We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. ResponsibilitiesThe Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of ...

We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. ResponsibilitiesThe Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of ...

The Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of surveying equipment * Experience with Trimble GPS and robotic equipment, TDS software a ...

We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. Responsibilities The Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of ...

S. We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. The Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of surveying ...

We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. Responsibilities The Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of ...

The Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of surveying equipment * Experience with Trimble GPS and robotic equipment, TDS software a ...

We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. ResponsibilitiesThe Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of ...

We are looking for an Instrument Person to support the Survey group. Responsibilities The Instrument Person will demonstrate knowledge and have experience in the following: * Working knowledge of ...

Will work primarily in the field as Jr. Crew Chief / Instrument Man on a one, two or three-person field crew. * Cut and remove brush and undergrowth for line of sight. * Reads and understands plans ...

Instrument Person - Ellicott City, MD We're partnering with a growing surveying and geospatial firm seeking an Instrument Person to join its Ellicott City field team. This is a hands-on opportunity ...

New

Will work primarily in the field as Jr. Crew Chief / Instrument Man on a one, two or three-person field crew. * Cut and remove brush and undergrowth for line of sight. * Reads and understands plans ...

A minimum of 5 years survey experience preferred with the last 3 performing the instrument person duties. Must be 18 years of age. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Instrument Person - Ellicott City, MD We're partnering with a growing surveying and geospatial firm seeking an Instrument Person to join its Ellicott City field team. This is a hands-on opportunity ...

New

Instrument Person

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Wallace Montgomery (WM) is actively seeking a highly motivated and experienced Instrument Operator ... This person performs such tasks as: using equipment and understanding measurement methods to be ...

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Instrument Person information

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$14

$24

$32

How much do instrument person jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument person in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrument person?

An Instrument Person, often called an Instrument Technician or Survey Instrument Operator, is a professional who works primarily in land surveying. They are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS receivers, levels, and data collectors. Their work supports surveyors and engineers by collecting accurate measurements and data for construction, mapping, or land development projects. Instrument Persons ensure that all equipment is calibrated correctly and that data is recorded precisely, often working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an instrument person on a survey crew?

As an Instrument Person, your daily responsibilities include setting up, operating, and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. You’ll work closely with the Party Chief and other crew members to collect accurate field data, mark survey points, and record measurements. This role often involves outdoor work in various weather conditions and requires attention to detail to ensure data quality. Collaboration and clear communication with your team are essential, as you may need to troubleshoot equipment and assist with data transfer to office staff.

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

To thrive as an Instrument Person, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, mathematics, and the ability to accurately operate and maintain surveying instruments, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with equipment such as total stations, GPS receivers, and data collectors, as well as proficiency in related software like AutoCAD or Trimble Business Center, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well in a team and outdoors are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate data collection and successful project completion in various surveying and construction environments.

What is the difference between Instrument Person vs Surveyor?

AspectInstrument PersonSurveyor
CredentialsTypically requires basic surveying or construction certificationsRequires more advanced surveying licenses and certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily with surveying instruments on construction sitesPerforms land measurements, boundary determinations, and mapping
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure projectsUsed across land development, engineering, and mapping projects

The main difference between an Instrument Person and a Surveyor lies in their scope of work and certification levels. An Instrument Person typically assists with setting up and operating surveying instruments on construction sites, often requiring basic certifications. In contrast, a Surveyor has a broader role involving land measurement, boundary determination, and often holds advanced licenses. Both roles are essential in construction and land development, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Instrument Person jobs

What cities are hiring for Instrument Person jobs?

Cities with the most Instrument Person job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Instrument Person jobs?

The top employers for Instrument Person jobs are:

Infographic showing various Instrument Person job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,042 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Instrument Person

HGA

Ruston, LA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Instrument Person will perform the daily operations pertaining to pipeline surveying, take instructions from Party Chief on a daily basis, instruct crew members, run GPS and Total Station equipment proficiently, carry equipment and stakes, walk and/or stand for long periods of time, work outside in hot or cold weather, work overtime and weekends, travel 95%.
The Instrument Person requirements are a minimum of 5 years survey experience preferred with the last 3 performing the instrument man duties. Must be 18 years of age.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

HGA logo

About HGA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1953