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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

COUNTY OF DODGE

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.

Dodge Company

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.

Dodge County

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.

Sterling Engineering Inc.

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 ...

Faith Technologies

Rodman

Beaver Dam, WI

The Construction Layout Rodman/Instrument Operator will be responsible for performing layout work on a variety of construction projects, utilizing advanced surveying tools such as Robotic Total ...

Faithtechnologies

Rodman

Beaver Dam, WI

The Construction Layout Rodman/Instrument Operator will be responsible for performing layout work on a variety of construction projects, utilizing advanced surveying tools such as Robotic Total ...

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All JobsLand Survey Instrument Operator JobsLand Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

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:
Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Professional Land Surveyor

Ayres Associates

Waukesha, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Finding the Right Fit:
Variety is the spice of life, as the proverbial saying goes, and you'll find boundless variety working as a professional land surveyor at Ayres. Our projects are varied, our work is rewarding, and our team is supportive, collaborative, and fun! Beyond the ability to work on diverse projects, our land surveyors play a key role in guiding project delivery from the office while providing strategic field support as needed. This role offers a strong balance of technical leadership, mentorship, and the opportunity to influence project success through both planning and execution, while continuing to leverage cutting-edge and emerging technologies in your work.
Our growing land survey group is seeking a professional land surveyor in our Waukesha, WI office. This is an ideal position for a qualified candidate with approximately 10 years of experience who thrives in a primarily office-based role, with opportunities to support field operations as needed. This individual will bring the ability to work independently, lead technical efforts, and mentor junior staff while collaborating as part of a high-performing survey team.
Our services are provided by a cohesive team of crew chiefs, technicians, surveyors, and project managers, bringing consistent and reliable deliverables through an array of resources available to our internal and external clients.
Join Ayres - a USA TODAY Top Workplace recognized in both 2025 and 2026 - where people-first leadership, collaboration, and professional growth create an environment where great teams do their best work.
On any given day, you'll:
  • Perform a variety of office-focused surveying and mapping tasks, with occasional field support as needed.
  • Lead and review work using survey field equipment data and multiple CADD platforms.
  • Assist and communicate with crew chiefs, technicians and project managers in support of their duties, while providing guidance and mentorship to junior staff and technicians.
  • Support fellow Professional Land Surveyors in preparation and review of land surveying documents.
  • Adhere to OSHA and required safety practices.
  • Overtime and occasional out-of-town and over-night travel is anticipated.

Required Qualifications:
  • A two-year degree in Land Surveying or Civil Engineering Technology or a four-year degree in Land Surveying.
  • Ten years of relevant work experience.
  • Wisconsin Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license.
  • Technically sound in the use of survey equipment and software.
  • Self-starter who can work independently, lead technical efforts, and mentor staff while working in a team setting.
  • Physical ability to walk over uneven terrain and lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Valid driver's license with good driving record.

Desired Skills and Experiences:
  • Ten or more years of relevant experience within the following surveying services:
    - Design surveys, including transportation, utility, municipal, and site development.
    - Geospatial control and LiDAR QA/QC.
    - Construction layout for transportation, utility, building, and municipal projects.
    - Land surveys, including ALTA and WisDOT right-of-way plats.
  • Experience with Trimble survey equipment and software.
  • Experience with Civil3D/AutoCAD and Microstation.
  • Ability to keep thorough notes and perform necessary survey calculations.
  • Strong leadership and mentoring skills, with the ability to develop junior staff and support team growth.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with clients and project managers.
  • Ability to accurately read and interpret construction drawings.
  • Interest in obtaining UAS Part 107 certification.
  • Interest in operating HD Terrestrial Scanning Equipment and processing point cloud data.
  • Motivated individuals interested in career growth.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team:
  • Health, dental, and vision Insurance.
  • Short and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and 401K with company match.
  • PTO, paid holidays including two floating holidays, and a flexible work schedule.
  • Professional development opportunities.

Please note, benefits vary depending on job status. To learn more about our great benefits, visit our website at https://www.ayresassociates.com/careers/the-ayres-advantage/
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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