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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

County Surveyor

Juneau, WI

$40.98 - $45.16/hr

Administers the land division and certified survey map review and approval processes. * Serves as ... Knowledge of operating, adjusting and maintaining the various survey equipment required.

County Surveyor

Juneau, WI · On-site

$40.98 - $45.16/hr

Administers the land division and certified survey map review and approval processes. * Serves as ... Knowledge of operating, adjusting and maintaining the various survey equipment required.

County Surveyor

Juneau, WI · On-site

$40.98 - $45.16/hr

Administers the land division and certified survey map review and approval processes. * Serves as ... Knowledge of operating, adjusting and maintaining the various survey equipment required.

Survey Technician

Madison, WI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... land surveying and infrastructure-related projects. This role is responsible for collecting accurate field data, operating modern surveying technology, and assisting with construction layout and ...

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Land Survey Instrument Operator information

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.

Is land survey instrument operator a good career to get into?

Land survey instrument operators play a key role in measuring and mapping land using tools like total stations and GPS equipment. The career offers steady employment opportunities, especially with experience and certifications, and often involves outdoor work with regular hours. It can be a good choice for those interested in technical skills and working in construction, engineering, or land development fields.

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 does a land survey instrument operator do?

A land survey instrument operator uses specialized tools such as total stations, GPS units, and levels to measure and record land features and boundaries. They set up and operate surveying equipment, collect data, and ensure measurements are accurate for mapping and construction projects. This role often requires knowledge of surveying techniques, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards.

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 are popular job titles related to Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Survey Instrument Technician/Crew Chief

McCarthy Building Co

Port Washington, WI • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


McCarthy Building Companies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

McCarthy Building Companies is looking for a skilled *Instrument Technicians and Crew Chiefs* for an exciting project in *Port Washington, WI.* In this role, you will be responsible for the execution of all field survey related activities on assigned projects including but not limited to maintaining project control, topographic data collection, construction layout (staking), as-built documentation and supporting the quality control program. The Instrument Technician I will report to the jobsite for the projects they are assigned and integrate with the operational management of the project with a focus on cost and schedule enhancement, quality, adherence to design intent and collaboration with the design team. The Instrument Technician I will directly report to and take directions from their respective Geomatics Manager from whom they will receive operational support, direction on means and methods, and learning and career development. The Instrument Technician I is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and quality of surveyed data and laid out or constructed components and instrumental to overall success of the projects they support.
*Depending on location, you will have to be part of the Union or willing to join local union*
*Compensation based on location and local union wages*
McCarthy proudly offers our craft professionals:
· Safety-First Mindset
· Paid Holidays (7)
· Paid Time Off
· Medical
· Dental
· Vision
· 401(k) Retirement
· Professional Development
· Referral Cash Bonuses!
McCarthy’s core purpose is to be the Best Builder in America. We value our skilled tradespeople, and we know the abilities you bring to make us a better company. Together, we can build great things
*PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES*
· Complete Task Hazard Analysis (THA) logs daily
· Recognize and communicate hazards/danger zones to surveying crew
· Operate and set up surveying instruments (Trimble Robotic Total Station, etc.) for land surveying operations
· Transfer grid lines and elevations from a set point
· Identify survey tools and material (laser, level, road, stakes, transit, etc.)
· Position and hold vertical rods/targets used for sighting to measure angles, distance, and elevations
· Provide surveying equipment maintenance, cleaning, and proper storage
· Successfully complete required training to use personal arrest system
· Perform field work in support of civil construction projects, including but not limited to layout, staking, grade checking, as-built data collection and utility mapping
· Occasionally assist our utility mapping division with data collection and site investigation
· Occasionally assist our vertical building division with construction layout and reality capture
· Support Civil field crews with GNSS enabled equipment
· Keep accurate notes, records and sketches to describe work performed.
· Place stakes at designated points and drive them into the ground.
· Operate and maintain equipment that would include a tablet computer, digital camera, survey grade GNSS, robotic total stations along with other measuring tools and Personal Protective Equipment.
· Work professionally in the field as a representative of McCarthy and our clients.
· Communicate effectively, both written and oral, with the project team.
· Must be able to travel for training as needed.
*QUALIFICATIONS*
· Prior experience working on new construction projects in commercial or civil environments
· High school diploma or G.E.D equivalent
· 2+ years of experience as a Field Survey Technician or Construction layout
· Able to operate GNSS and Total Station equipment for purposes of supporting the overall construction process
· Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and memos
· Efficient and safe work habits
· Valid driver’s license with a driving record that is approved by our insurance provider
· Able to perform work with minimum supervision
· Understand construction terminology
· Basic Mathematics skills
· Proven commitment to Safety
· Work in an organized manner
· Must have reliable transportation to/from the job site
· Able to work approximately 95% of the time in the field
· Ability to work independently and follow instructions
· Must be self-motivated and can work well with others
· Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency
· Ability to perform heavy lifting/pushing/pulling of material weighing 50 pounds
· Ability to squat, crawl, and work in confined spaces
· Ability to stand for long periods, walk over all types of terrain
· Must be able to work in inclement weather conditions
· Minimum age 18+
· Proof of Identity and Employment Authorization
_McCarthy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status. _
MBCSkill
Pay: From $25.00 per hour
Work Location: In person

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About McCarthy Building

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCarthy Building, headquartered in Saint Louis, MO, US, is a leading construction company primarily offering general contracting, design-build and construction management services throughout the United States. Its prominent industry presence can be explored in detail on its official website, mccarthy.com. Founded in 1864, the company has built a robust legacy marked by significant contributions to the U.S. construction industry. McCarthy Building engages a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1864

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