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Lidar Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... on LiDAR data. * Creates, maintains and updates databases using GIS software. * Collects hydro feature breaklines and runs hydro models and produces printed maps. * Proficient in operating GIS ...

Software Engineer, Rust

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$165 - $218/hr

Operating in small, innovative teams, we push the boundaries of what's possible to deliver advanced ... Knowledge of signal processing techniques for interpreting diverse sensor data (e.g., radar, lidar ...

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Lidar Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$24

$38

How much do lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lidar operator in Colorado is $24.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $22.98 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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What cities in Colorado are hiring for Lidar Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Lidar Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Lidar Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,399 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Geospatial Technician

Sanborn Map Company

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US

Founded in 1866, The Sanborn Map Company (Sanborn) is one of the oldest continuously operating mapping and geospatial information technology companies in the US. Our work is highly visual, and our mapped data and applications are an essential part of today’s information economy. We serve many industries and government departments and need to communicate effectively with them about our wide range of products and services.

In Sanborn’s Mapping Division, our airplanes, vessels, drones, and vehicles are equipped with the latest sensors for orthoimagery, oblique imagery, lidar, and sonar collection. With the latest software and AI/ML methods, Sanborn transforms spatial data into 2D and 3D maps – elevation, natural resources, High Definition transportation roadways and infrastructure, 3D models and digital twins of buildings, facilities, and cities – that meet national standards and customer specification. Secure and high-performance storage and streaming options, and data visualization tools, round out the offerings.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Geospatial Technician is an entry level position in a learning capacity to perform digital ortho photography processing, graphics, and quality control. Prepares, edits, and interprets orthophoto images from aerial photographs, survey data, and compilation data. Process and analyze lidar point clouds for anomalies and artifacts. Read and interpret maps and other GIS data, collecting and analyzing GIS data sources and entering data into GIS databases, modifying GIS databases, drawing maps using automated software, and producing reports.

In-Office position: Colorado Spring, CO

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES COULD INCLUDE

  • Under close supervision, prepares orthophoto images from aerial photographs, survey data, and compilation data and archives digital data.
  • Perform manual edit QC on LiDAR data.
  • Creates, maintains and updates databases using GIS software.
  • Collects hydro feature breaklines and runs hydro models and produces printed maps.
  • Proficient in operating GIS equipment, software, data, and related products.
  • Compiling geographic information in the form of satellite images, geographical surveys, and aerial photographs.
  • Researching and verifying geographic data.
  • Entering new data into GIS database.
  • Drawing maps using advanced computer software.
  • Ensuring maps are annotated and compiled with the correct information.
  • Compiling reports using all available GIS and GPS data sources.
  • Maintaining the GIS database and troubleshooting data issues.
  • Compiles Photogrammetric and topographic data.
  • Follow Sanborn’s Quality Management System (QMS) processes to assure quality
  • Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

  • High school diploma. Associate’s degree preferred or higher, or certificate in relevant course of study, or the equivalent work experience or current enrollment in relevant college-level coursework.

EXPERIENCE

Exposure to lidar, ortho imagery and GIS software tools preferred, Google, Photoshop, CADD, ESRI, Windows. Can see visually in stereo 3D.

Full-Time Hourly Pay Range $17-22 hour

Additional Requirements

Applicant must live in the U.S. and be authorized to work in the U.S.

Sanborn offers a comprehensive health and wellness program which includes medical, dental, vision, 401k, holiday, PTO, EAP, disability and life insurance benefits.

TO APPLY: Visit our website: www.Sanborn.com under the Careers menu option to apply. We are accepting applications for this position until September 15, 2026. Sanborn is an AA/ Veteran/Disability Equal Opportunity Employer.