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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Survey Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K/yr

Overview Are you an innovative leader with expert knowledge of land mapping and technical survey instrument techniques? As a Survey Manager, you who will oversee survey teams of one or more project ...

Survey Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K/yr

Overview Are you an innovative leader with expert knowledge of land mapping and technical survey instrument techniques? As a Survey Manager, you who will oversee survey teams of one or more project ...

Survey Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Are you an innovative leader with expert knowledge of land mapping and technical survey instrument techniques? As a Survey Manager, you who will oversee survey teams of one or more project sites ...

Survey Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Overview Are you an innovative leader with expert knowledge of land mapping and technical survey instrument techniques? As a Survey Manager, you who will oversee survey teams of one or more project ...

Survey Crew Chief

Ellicott City, MD · On-site

$28 - $45/hr

The Party Chief is responsible for directing the daily activities of assigned Survey Instrument Operator to gather and complete assigned engineering and land surveys. Essential duties and ...

The ideal candidate has knowledge of the principles of land surveying, and basic principles of ... Valid motor vehicle operator's license. NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: The appointee to this ...

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Land Survey Instrument Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$24

$35

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 Washington, DC is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $26.68 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.

What are popular job titles related to Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

For Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,401 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Survey Instrument Operator

Timmons Group, Inc.

Ellicott City, MD • On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Job Description

Timmons Group is currently seeking a Survey Instrument Operator to join our Survey Group located in our Ellicott City, MD office location. The Instrument Operator assists Land Surveyors and Party Chiefs in application of principles, methods, and techniques of civil engineering and land surveying by performing the following duties.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

  • Collects data for boundaries, location, topographical, and design surveys
  • Operates robotic total station, level, GPS Receivers and data collectors in performance of field surveys
  • Sets points on construction stakeout projects (curb and gutter, drop inlets, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, waterline, bridges, etc.)
  • Conducts daily maintenance and up-keep of instruments
  • Makes sketches and records measurements to indicate exact location of horizontal and vertical control points
  • Assists in the maintenance of survey equipment, supplies, and vehicle
  • Travel may be required at times
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Skills/Requirements of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:

  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Ability to read survey and engineering drawings
  • Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as trigonometry and geometry
  • Must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills and be able to apply professional knowledge to the solution of both routine and non-routine tasks and surveying activities
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of team with excellent time management skills to ensure deadlines are met
  • Have a current state driver's license and able to drive a vehicle
  • Physical demands include: Must be able to carry up to 50 lb. of equipment over all types of terrain.

All-weather year-round outdoor work environment, with seasonal extreme heat index and wind-chill factors

Other physical attributes of the job, such as hiking, climbing, vegetation management (chopping, cutting, hammering, sawing, etc.)

Compensation: Our best estimate of the salary range for this position is $21/hr.-$29/hr. This position is eligible for overtime. Offers are based on a range of job-related factors such as internal equity, experience, skills, education, credentials and role complexity. Information on our comprehensive benefits package be found here.

Additional Information

The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We are looking for high energy, creative, flexible, patient, self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company's Vision, Mission and Shared Values.

Timmons Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Timmons Group is a full-service engineering and technology firm recognized nationally as a "Best Firm to Work For" by CE News. With 21 offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, we provide civil engineering, environmental, economic development, GIS/geospatial technology, landscape architecture, and surveying services to a diverse client base. As one of Engineering News Record's (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms for over 30 years, we are dedicated to being an employer of choice and providing our people with the best resources, technology, and culture to help them thrive in an engaging career development setting. For more information, visit www.timmons.com.

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