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Lidar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seyond

Staff LiDAR System Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Lead or contribute to LiDAR system architecture, including requirements definition, subsystem interfaces, performance budgets, operating modes, and key technical trade-offs. * Translate product and ...

Seyond

Staff LiDAR System Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Lead or contribute to LiDAR system architecture, including requirements definition, subsystem interfaces, performance budgets, operating modes, and key technical trade-offs. * Translate product and ...

Seyond

Staff LiDAR System Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

Lead or contribute to LiDAR system architecture, including requirements definition, subsystem interfaces, performance budgets, operating modes, and key technical trade-offs. * Translate product and ...

Frey Consulting Group

Lidar Quality Analyst

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$69 - $88/hr

... operating procedures , checklists, and report/metadata templates * Training junior staff in QA/QC ... ASPRS Positional accuracy Standards for Digital Geospatial Data (2014), USGS Lidar Base ...

New

GeoSearch

Lidar Quality Analyst

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$69K - $88K/yr

... operating procedures , checklists, and report/metadata templates * Training junior staff in QA/QC ... ASPRS Positional accuracy Standards for Digital Geospatial Data (2014), USGS Lidar Base ...

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How much do lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lidar operator in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lidar operator?

A Lidar Operator is responsible for using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to collect high-resolution spatial data for mapping and surveying purposes. They operate specialized equipment mounted on vehicles, drones, or aircraft to scan terrain, structures, and vegetation. Their duties include setting up and calibrating sensors, ensuring data accuracy, processing raw LiDAR data, and troubleshooting technical issues. Lidar Operators work in industries like geospatial mapping, construction, forestry, and infrastructure development. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with GIS software are essential for this role.

What does a lidar operator do?

A typical day for a Lidar Operator often includes preparing equipment, conducting field surveys—sometimes in challenging weather or terrain—and capturing high-precision 3D data. After fieldwork, you may spend time processing and analyzing the collected data on a computer, ensuring its accuracy and completeness. Collaboration with survey managers, GIS teams, and project coordinators is common to integrate Lidar data into larger mapping or engineering efforts. The work strikes a balance between hands-on field activities and technical data analysis, offering variety and opportunities for skill development.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a lidar operator?

To thrive as a Lidar Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and experience with surveying or geospatial data collection, typically supported by relevant training or certifications in Lidar technology or geomatics. Proficiency with Lidar hardware, GPS systems, 3D mapping software, and data processing tools such as TerraScan or Global Mapper is essential. Being dependable, having good communication skills, and working well both independently and within field teams will help you excel in project-based environments. These abilities are vital for ensuring accurate data collection, safe field operations, and effective collaboration on complex mapping or surveying projects.

How do you become a lidar operator?

To become a lidar operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in lidar technology and data processing. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in surveying, GIS, or related fields, and some roles may require certification in operating lidar equipment or related software.
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Lidar Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lidar Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.

LiDAR Collection Operator / OSP Assistant Inspector

Fibersmith

Columbia, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate vehicles equipped with LiDAR sensors, GPS, cameras, and other collection equipment to gather data in the field.

  • Set up, monitor, and troubleshoot equipment to ensure accurate data collection and maintain collected field data and records.

  • Assist with inspection of fiber construction projects, verify adherence to plans and specifications, and document field changes and construction records.

Job description

LiDAR Field Operator / OSP Assistant Inspector


Travel, Technology, and Hands-On Field Work

Looking for a job that gets you out from behind a desk?


Fibersmith is hiring a LiDAR Field Operator / OSP Assistant Inspector to travel to broadband project locations, operate specialized field technology, and support fiber construction projects.


This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys being on the road, working independently, learning new technology, and spending time in the field. Experience with LiDAR or fiber construction is helpful, but we’re also interested in dependable people who are willing to learn.


This Position Requires Extended Travel

Frequent and extended overnight travel is a major part of this position.


Project assignments may require you to be on the road for up to three months at a time, working away from home. Some assignments may begin on short notice, and schedules may include evening or weekend travel.


The company pays for lodging and approved travel expenses while you are working away from home.


What You’ll Do

Your responsibilities will vary depending on current projects and may include:

  • Operate vehicles equipped with LiDAR sensors, GPS, cameras, and other collection equipment
  • Set up and monitor equipment to help ensure accurate data collection
  • Follow assigned collection routes and safely operate vehicles in varying road and weather conditions
  • Perform routine vehicle and equipment checks and troubleshoot basic issues
  • Transfer, organize, and maintain collected field data
  • Complete daily logs, collection records, and field reports
  • Communicate project progress, equipment issues, delays, and field conditions
  • Assist with inspection of aerial and underground fiber construction
  • Help verify construction follows project maps, specifications, and client expectations
  • Document field changes, materials used, redlines, and other construction records
  • Work with contractors, project managers, clients, and other field personnel


What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is dependable, safety-conscious, organized, willing to learn, and comfortable working independently.


Qualifications include:

  • Strong attention to detail and communication skills
  • Ability to follow processes and maintain accurate records
  • Basic computer skills, including email and file management
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Ability and willingness to travel frequently and for extended periods
  • Flexibility for short-notice assignments, evenings, or weekends as needed
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain
  • Ability to drive or ride for extended periods and lift up to 30 pounds


Experience with LiDAR, GPS, GIS, surveying, mapping, telecommunications, utility construction, fiber construction, or construction inspection is a plus, but not required.


Why Fibersmith?

Fibersmith helps broadband providers bring high-speed internet to communities across the country. In this position, you’ll gain hands-on experience with LiDAR and mapping technology while also learning about fiber construction and field inspection.


If you like travel, technology, field work, and variety, we’d like to hear from you.