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Lidar Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

Lidar Operator information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Lidar Operator jobs in Oregon?

For Lidar Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lidar Operator job openings in Oregon as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution.

Acquisition Project Coordinator

Corvallis, OR • On-site

NV5, Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

The Project Coordinator is responsible for various project support tasks, including flight planning, equipment and sensor tracking, project logistics, strategy and tactics, management of personnel, field support, and occasional deployments into the field as a Sensor Operator. When deployed in the field, the Project Coordinator will work closely in a collaborative team environment with a captain in small aircraft/helicopters while flying acquisition missions. The position will be challenged both technically and with the breadth of tasks inherent to the role.

Work Environment:

  • Location: NV5 Regional office in Corvallis , OR
  • Potential travel up to 25% of the time

NV5 is a global technology solutions and consulting services company with a workforce of over 4,500 professionals in more than 100 offices worldwide. NV5’s continued growth has been spurred through strategic investments in firms with unique capabilities to help current and future customers solve the world’s toughest problems. TheNV5 family brings together talent across a wide range of markets and fields, including Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Architects, Photogrammetrists, GIS Professionals, Software Developers, IT, Project Management Professionals, and more.

At NV5 Geospatial, we are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each other, our communities, and the environment. We value both heart and head, the diversity of our people, and their experiences because that is how we continue to grow as a leader in our industry and expand our individual and collective potential.

Responsibilities

Project Management (approximately 50% of time):

  • Develop efficient flight and logistical plans that meet or exceed project specification
  • Maintain project management software as it relates to acquisition efforts
  • Responsible for notification of project status or completion to the Business Unit Leads, Account Managers, Project Managers and Director of Data Acquisition
  • Create flight plans and develop project plan in support of estimating
  • Create and update Project Tracking documents and Flight Backlog
  • Act as a point of contact for field personnel

Field Travel (approximately 20% of time):

  • Travel into the field to support acquisition as a Sensor Operator
  • Troubleshoot and install sensor systems with support

Project Tracking (approximately 20% of time):

  • Assist in detailed tracking of project costs
  • Track status in study areas, including personnel, weather, resources, etc.
  • Track project performance budget to actual, identifying primary causes for variances

Safety & Compliance (approximately 5% of time):

  • Assist in maintaining field safety program protocols and meetings
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company vehicles, equipment, and instrumentation
  • Report safety concerns and violations/issues to the Director of People Operations

Policies/Procedures (approximately 5% of time):

  • Develop process and procedures as assigned
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or a related field; HS diploma and commensurate experience may be substituted for a degree
  • 2+ years of experience in remote sensing
  • Experience with databases and spreadsheets
  • A valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Aviation Background
  • Field experience as an airborne sensor operator
  • Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR
  • In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments
  • Experience using both flight planning and post processing software packages
  • Experience in topobathymetric lidar
  • Experience in helicopter operations

Required Skills:

  • Firm understanding of geospatial concepts and GPS survey methods and Interest in GIS and remote sensing
  • Successful working independently, as well as in a team setting
  • Self-motivated
  • Strong prioritization and organizational skills
  • Excellent decision making and problem-solving abilities
  • Desire and flexibility to work in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment

Physical Requirements:

  • Typical work day to expect: 90% office related tasks and 10% walking or moving equipment up to 70 pounds
  • Occasional travel and field work will be required; Travel as needed and adhere to a non-traditional work schedule in order to assist in Field Operations

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, FTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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What NV5 employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US