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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Lafayette, LA · On-site

Baker Smith, LLC is seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator to who specialize in field operations. This position will be primarily responsible for assisting the party chief in operation of field ...

Tesoro Group

Instrument Operator

Plano, TX · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated Land Survey Instrument Operator to join our client's team and deliver exceptional surveying services to internal and external clients. Salary: $80,000-100,000 Travel ...

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Covington, LA · On-site

Baker Smith, LLC is seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator to who specialize in field operations. This position will be primarily responsible for assisting the party chief in operation of field ...

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

Baker Smith, LLC is seeking a Land Survey Instrument Operator to who specialize in field operations. This position will be primarily responsible for assisting the party chief in operation of field ...

Tesoro Group

Instrument Operator

Plano, TX · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated Land Survey Instrument Operator to join our client's team and deliver ... exceptional surveying services to internal and external clients. Salary: $80,000-100,000 Travel ...

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Plano, TX · On-site

The Survey 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 ...

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Plano, TX · On-site

The Survey 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 ...

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Plano, TX · On-site

The Survey 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 ...

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

As of Jun 5, 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 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 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 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.

More about Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs? Cities with the most Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings:
What states have the most Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs are:
Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Land Survey Instrument Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,383 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Instrument Operator - Renewables

Tesoro Group (Tesoro Technology)

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Other

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated Land Survey Instrument Operator to join our client’s team and deliver exceptional surveying services to internal and external clients.

Salary: $80,000-100,000
Travel Requirement: 3-4 weeks minimum at a time/1 week off
Per Diem: $205 (covering 7 days per week if working 6 days)
Hours: Average of 75-85 hours per week due to travel

***Must have a Valid Driver’s License and a clean driving history***

In this role, the Instrument Operator/ Survey Assistant will:

  • Assisting the Crew Chief in the operation of a field survey crew.
  • The primary objectives are the quality of work (accuracy, thoroughness, regulatory compliance, and public relations), safety, and equipment maintenance.
  • Must operate equipment, maintain a safe work environment, protect and maintain the equipment and vehicles, accurately and efficiently collect field data, and locate features.
  • Record accurate and precise surveying notes.
  • Accurately record data points with a data collector
  • Set wooden stakes and iron rods, cut and clear brush, trees, etc.
  • Adhere to the company’s Safety, Quality Management, and Equipment Maintenance policies.
  • Physically mobile in and around construction sites and field assignments
  • Ability to carry survey equipment and supplies in remote, rural, or urban surroundings
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds and walk long distances

Preferred Experience

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Preferred but not necessary: one to two years of progressive land survey field experience.
  • Proficiency with land survey equipment (total stations) and GPS is required; proficiency with GPS is preferred but not required.

If you are passionate about land surveying and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply and join our team!


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