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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

You'll be responsible for operating survey equipment, collecting accurate field data, setting ... land surveying profession. The Perks! * 100% company-paid medical insurance and long /short-term ...

Deputy County Surveyor

Roseburg, OR · On-site

$71K - $94K/yr

Work is performed both in the office and outdoor/field locations requiring bending, sitting, keyboarding, kneeling, lifting and/or carrying up to 25 pounds, operating land survey equipment, pushing ...

Work is performed both in the office and outdoor/field locations requiring bending, sitting, keyboarding, kneeling, lifting and/or carrying up to 25 pounds, operating land survey equipment, pushing ...

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Land Survey Instrument Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$15

$23

$33

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for land survey instrument operator in Oregon is $23.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are Land Survey Instrument Operators?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Land Survey Instrument Operator, and why are they important?

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 some common challenges faced by Land Survey Instrument Operators in the field, 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 are popular job titles related to Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Oregon? For Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,983 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Survey Field Crew / Instrument Man - Austin, Dallas, San Antonio

HFW Companies

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Survey Field Crew Member / Instrument

 

Position Summary - Austin, Dallas, San Antonio 

Join our partner firm KFM Engineering & Design, as a Survey Field Crew Member / Instrument Man and become an integral part of our Survey team. In this role, you'll work alongside a Survey Party Chief to support a variety of land surveying projects, including boundary, topographic, construction staking, ALTA/NSPS, and utility surveys. You'll be responsible for operating survey equipment, collecting accurate field data, setting survey control and construction stakes, and helping ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and with precision. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, values teamwork, and is eager to build a rewarding career in the land surveying profession.

The Perks!

  • 100% company-paid medical insurance and long /short-term disability coverage for employees. 
  • 401(k) plan with a competitive employer match 
  • Generous paid time off (PTO) and company holidays. 
  • Opportunities to participate in company events. 
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional development. 

Company Overview 

 

KFM is a proud member of the HFW Companies network of partner firms. At KFM Engineering & Design, we bring together over 80 years of combined experience across more than 5,000 successful projects, establishing ourselves as Texas' premier civil engineering, design, and land use consulting firm. Our deep expertise and history of proven performance on complex projects make us the trusted partner for clients seeking innovative and efficient solutions.

At the core of KFM's success is our unwavering commitment to exceeding expectations. We achieve this through exceptional communication, rigorous quality control, proactive project management, strong client relationships, and deadline-focused execution. Our team's unparalleled understanding of the development process ensures seamless project delivery, from concept to completion.

Beyond engineering and design, KFM is dedicated to community engagement. We believe in giving back to the industry and supporting charitable organizations where we live and work, fostering a stronger, more sustainable future. This commitment is the foundation of our contributions to projects that are sustainable, community-driven, and highly successful for investors.

With a legacy of excellence and a future-focused approach, KFM Engineering & Design continues to shape the landscape of Texas and beyond-one project at a time.

  • Follow us on LinkedIn ->  KFM
  • Learn more about us on our company page -> KFM

Essential Responsibilities: 

 

  • Assist the Survey Party Chief with daily field surveying activities.
  • Set up, operate, and maintain survey equipment including GPS receivers, robotic total stations, data collectors, and digital levels.
  • Collect accurate field measurements and survey data for boundary, topographic, construction staking, utility, and as-built surveys.
  • Drive survey vehicles to and from project sites while following all company safety policies.
  • Ensure survey equipment is properly calibrated, maintained, and securely stored.
  • Set hubs, stakes, nails, and other survey markers as directed.
  • Record clear and accurate field notes and verify data completeness before leaving project sites.
  • Identify and report field discrepancies, safety concerns, or potential project issues to the Party Chief.
  • Assist with locating property corners, benchmarks, utilities, and control points.
  • Clear brush and vegetation when necessary to establish survey lines and maintain visibility.
  • Maintain a clean, organized survey vehicle and equipment inventory.
  • Follow all company safety procedures, traffic control requirements, and PPE standards.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on challenging terrain.
  • Travel to project sites as required, including occasional overnight travel.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications: 

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • 1+ years of field survey experience preferred; entry-level candidates with relevant construction or outdoor experience will also be considered.
  • Basic understanding of land surveying principles and field procedures.
  • Experience using GPS equipment, total stations, or willingness to learn.
  • Ability to read construction plans, survey maps, and staking information preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain and work in all weather conditions.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate work.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to follow directions and work efficiently under the supervision of a Party Chief.

 

Preferred

  • Experience with Trimble, Leica, or Carlson survey equipment.
  • Familiarity with data collectors and field software.
  • Previous experience supporting boundary, ALTA, topographic, or construction surveys.
  • OSHA 10 certification or other safety training.

 

Learn more and follow all our firms below! 

  • The HFW Companies 
  • CRANSTON 
  • KFM Engineering & Design 
  • Taney Engineering & Land Surveying 
  • INVISION Planning | Architecture | Interiors 
  • GastingerWalker& 
  • Kuo & Associates 
  • 4Ward Land Surveying 
  • HSQ Group 
  • Miller Legg 
  • Southwest Engineers  
  • MAA 

#LI-ONSITE 

#LI-HW1


HFW logo

About HFW

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

2020