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Land Survey Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

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.

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Staunton, VA · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

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.

Dewberry

Survey Instrument Operator

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$51K - $66K/yr

Applicant must be responsible, highly motivated, and a detail oriented individual interested in joining our Land Surveying department in the Richmond, VA area as a Land Survey Instrument Operator to ...

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Land Survey Instrument Operator information

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$14

$21

$31

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

As of Jul 16, 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 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.
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Land Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you

Land Survey Instrument Operator

R&R ENGINEERS AND SURVEYORS INC

Denver, CO • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

At R&R Engineers Surveyors Inc., we're passionate aboutmore than just delivering exceptional results-we're committed to creating anenvironment where professional development and enjoyment go hand in hand. Ourteam thrives on providing white-glove service to our clients, ensuring everyinteraction is seamless and personalized. We believe that growth and successcome from fostering talent, building expertise, and having fun along the way.If you're looking to join a company that values your development, supports yourambitions, and knows how to balance hard work with a great company culture,R&R is the place for you.
About the Position:
R&R is seeking a highly motivated and reliable candidatefor an entry level survey position. This position allows someone with noexperience to learn the many facets of surveying. This position will workalongside the Survey Crew Chief completing daily survey tasks, involving butnot limited to all phases of a construction site as well as the surveying ofproperties.
What You Will Do:
  • Support Survey Crew Chief in all aspects of survey field work.
  • Take and follow directions, completing tasks as directed, supporting survey activities.
  • Activities will include setting up and operating survey equipment and staking out the site.
  • Performs a variety of routine tasks with guidance from the Survey Crew Chief.

Qualifications:
  • No experience required - if you are willing to learn, we'll teach you!
  • Clean driving record and valid Colorado driver's license.
  • Basic math skills.

Physical Requirements
  • Walking, kneeling, squatting and frequent lifting of up to 40 pounds
  • Able to use basic hand tools such as hammer. saw, pliers, etc.
  • Ability to withstand all weather conditions and temperatures. We live in Colorado, so be prepared for all the elements (sometimes all in the same day!).

The Position:
The Instrument Operator position is full-time 40 hours perweek, hourly non-exempt position. This position occasionally offers overtime.
The hourly range for this role is: $20-24/hr.
The Benefits:
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
  • Retirement savings plan with employer matching
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment

Application Deadline: August 1st, 2026
Please note that the deadline may be extended until theposition is filled.
R&R Engineers Surveyors Inc. is an equal opportunityemployer committed in policy and practice to recruit, hire, train and promote,in all job classifications, without regard to race, color, ancestry, creed,religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, sexualorientation, veteran status, political service, gender identity, affiliation ordisability or other classes protected by federal or state law. R&REngineers Surveyors Inc. does not tolerate harassment or retaliation against anyemployee or applicant based on these characteristics or because the individualexercised their EEO rights.
All offers are conditional on successful background checks.Our background checks include a search on the National Sex Offenders registry,and local, state and federal criminal databases.

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