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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tesoro Group

Instrument Operator

Lansdale, PA

$80K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated Land Survey Instrument Operator in Lansdale, PA, to join our client's team and deliver exceptional surveying services to internal and external clients. Position: Land ...

Dewberry

Land Survey Instrument Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Dewberry is currently seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator. Applicant must be responsible, highly motivated, and a detail oriented individual interested in joining our Land Surveying department ...

Dewberry

Land Survey Instrument Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator. Applicant must be responsible, highly motivated, and a detail oriented individual interested in joining our Land Surveying department ...

Dewberry

Land Survey Instrument Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Dewberry is currently seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator. Applicant must be responsible, highly motivated, and a detail oriented individual interested in joining our Land Surveying department ...

Tesoro Group

Land Surveyor Assistant

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are seeking a dedicated Land Survey Instrument Operator in Charlotte, NC, to join a traveling survey team supporting large renewable energy projects. In this role, you will assist the Land ...

Tesoro Group

Land Surveyor Assistant

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Land Survey Instrument Operator Location: Charlotte, NC area (with travel requirements) Salary: $80,000 - $100,000 Travel Schedule: 3-4 weeks on-site / 1 week off Per Diem: $205/day (7 days/week when ...

Tesoro Group

Instrument Operator - Renewables

Bucyrus, KS · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Land Survey Instrument Operator Location: Kansas City area (with travel requirements) Salary: $80,000 - $100,000 Travel Schedule: 3-4 weeks on-site / 1 week off Per Diem: $205/day (7 days/week when ...

Dewberry

Land Survey Instrument Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator. Applicant must be responsible, highly motivated, and a detail oriented individual interested in joining our Land Surveying department ...

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Land Survey Instrument Operator information

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How much do land survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for land survey 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 is a land survey instrument operator?

Land Survey Instrument Operators are professionals who assist land surveyors by setting up, operating, and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS units, and levels. They work on construction sites, in the field, or in offices to help collect data that determines property boundaries, topography, and other land features. Their work is essential for construction, engineering, and land development projects, as they ensure accurate measurements and data collection. Instrument Operators often work under the supervision of a licensed land surveyor and play a crucial role in the survey team.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a land survey instrument operator?

To excel as a Land Survey Instrument Operator, you need a solid understanding of surveying principles, mathematics, and experience with land measurement, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in surveying or a related field. Familiarity with surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and data collectors, along with knowledge of CAD software, is highly valuable. Strong attention to detail, teamwork skills, and the ability to communicate effectively are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, efficient collaboration on field teams, and reliable results for construction or land development projects.

What are common challenges faced by land survey instrument operators, and how can they be managed?

Land Survey Instrument Operators often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and sometimes in remote or uneven terrain, which can present physical and logistical challenges. Managing equipment accuracy and handling technical issues on-site are crucial, as errors can impact project outcomes. Effective communication with surveyors, engineers, and construction teams is essential to ensure data is correctly recorded and understood. Staying organized, maintaining equipment, and following safety protocols help operators overcome these challenges and contribute to efficient project delivery.

What is the difference between Land Survey Instrument Operator vs Land Survey Technician?

AspectLand Survey Instrument OperatorLand Survey Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training; certifications like LSIT can be beneficialUsually needs an associate degree or technical training; LSIT certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks outdoors on survey sites, operating surveying instrumentsWorks both indoors and outdoors, assisting with data collection and office calculations
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by survey firms, construction companies, engineering firmsEmployed similarly, often in surveying, civil engineering, or construction industries

While both roles involve working with surveying instruments, the Land Survey Instrument Operator primarily focuses on operating equipment in the field, whereas the Land Survey Technician often handles data processing and support tasks. Both roles are essential in the surveying process and share similar certifications and work environments.

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Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,383 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Land Survey Instrument Operator - Data Centers

Dallas, TX • On-site

Tesoro Group
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Tesoro Groupexternal

$18 - $24/hr

Per diem

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated Survey Instrument Operator in the Dallas, Texas area to support local data center surveying projects for our client's team.

Position: Land Survey Instrument Operator
Location: Dallas, Texas area local projects
Pay: $18-$24/hour
Travel: Local role with no travel pay or per diem
Schedule: 40-65 hours a week

About Our Client: Our client supports mission-critical infrastructure projects, including data center development, and provides accurate surveying services that help teams deliver quality work safely and efficiently.

What You'll Do:

  • Assist the Crew Chief in operating field survey crews on local data center projects
  • Operate land survey equipment, including total stations and GPS systems
  • Accurately record data points using data collectors and maintain precise surveying notes
  • Set wooden stakes and iron rods; cut and clear brush and trees as needed
  • Locate and record features with accuracy, thoroughness, and regulatory compliance
  • Protect and maintain equipment and vehicles to ensure optimal performance
  • Maintain a safe work environment and adhere to company Safety and Quality Management policies
  • Provide excellent service to both internal and external clients

    • What We're Looking For:

  • High school diploma or GED (required)
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record (required)
  • Proficiency with land survey equipment (total stations) (required)
  • GPS proficiency (preferred but not required)
  • Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and walk long distances
  • Ability to work safely in active construction and data center project environments
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality work

Preferred Experience:

1-2 years of progressive experience in the land surveying field (preferred but not necessary—we welcome motivated entry-level candidates!)

What Makes This Opportunity Special: This is a local surveying opportunity supporting data center projects, giving you hands-on field experience on mission-critical infrastructure without a long-term travel schedule.

If you're interested in a local survey role supporting data center work, I'd love to discuss this opportunity with you!

Are you available for a brief call this week?