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Lidar Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Lidar Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$21

$34

How much do lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lidar operator in Arizona is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a Lidar Operator?

To become a Lidar Operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or certification in lidar technology, surveying, or GIS. Experience with data collection, processing software, and operating lidar equipment is important, and some roles may require knowledge of GPS and mapping tools. On-the-job training is common, and safety procedures must be followed in field environments.

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Lidar Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Lidar Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Lidar Operator jobs in Arizona? For Lidar Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lidar Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Lidar Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Lidar Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Lidar Operator job openings:
Lidar Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lidar Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,666 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Land Surveyor RLS - Experienced RLS w/ Drone

COOPER AERIAL SURVEYS CO

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Land Surveyor | RLS w/Drone License – Phoenix, AZ (Full-Time)

Cooper Aerial Surveys is an Arizona-based aerial mapping and land surveying firm seeking an experienced Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) with drone/UAS experience to join our Phoenix team. This is a full-time, in-office/field position for someone who knows their way around real projects, can operate independently, and takes pride in doing things right.

This role involves fieldwork and project support on ALTA, Topographic, Construction Staking, Boundary, and aerial mapping projects. The ideal candidate is comfortable both in the field and around technology — including drone operations, survey equipment, and coordination with project teams. You’ll often work independently but also collaborate with crews, pilots, CAD staff, and clients. We’re looking for someone reliable, professional, and easy to work with — competence and attitude both matter here.

Requirements

  • Active Arizona Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) license preferred (or ability to obtain Arizona reciprocity)
  • FAA Part 107 Drone License required
  • 5+ years of land surveying field experience
  • 3+ years flying Drones for survey work
  • Experience with drone/UAS data collection and mission planning
  • Ability to communicate clearly with superintendents, contractors, clients, and project teams
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D (required)
  • Trimble Business Center experience is a plus
  • Strong understanding of land surveying techniques, principles, boundary law, and survey standards
  • Experience operating GPS, robotic total stations, and related survey equipment
  • Proven work history, strong work ethic, and team-first mindset
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage your own work
  • Having your own equipment is a plus (if compatible with our resources)

Equipment & Training

Cooper Aerial uses Trimble robotic and GPS equipment along with drone/UAS platforms for aerial mapping and data collection. Experience with Trimble workflows, photogrammetry, LiDAR, or aerial mapping is a plus, but we’re willing to train the right person with a strong surveying background and willingness to learn.

Company Description

Cooper Aerial Surveys Co has been setting the standard in mapping and land surveying since 1966. We’re a client-focused firm known for delivering accurate, high-quality work on complex projects—and doing it consistently. Our team of 40+ professionals across multiple locations nationwide includes some of the most skilled and experienced people in the aerial mapping and survey industry.

What truly sets Cooper Aerial apart is our team. We hire smart, capable people and trust them to do great work. That experience shows up in our deliverables, which are recognized for their quality, reliability, and attention to detail. We serve clients worldwide and have built our reputation on excellence, strong relationships, and staying ahead of the curve as mapping technology continues to evolve.

If you care about quality and want to be part of a team known for its reputation and results, you’ll fit in at Cooper Aerial.