1

Lidar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Seyond is a leading global provider of image-grade LiDAR technology, powering a safer, smarter and ... Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or similar robotics frameworks preferred. * Knowledge ...

Experience with operating satellite, cellular, and RF telemetry systems Experience with maritime situational awareness using AIS,FLIR, ECDIS, LiDAR, and RADAR. Experience with data acquisition using ...

New

Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Seyond is a leading global provider of image-grade LiDAR technology, powering a safer, smarter and ... Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or similar robotics frameworks preferred. * Knowledge ...

The Instrument Operator A works under the direction of a Survey Party Chief or Supervisor to ... Experience supporting LiDAR collection or scanning-based survey projects. * Strong attention to ...

The Instrument Operator A works under the direction of a Survey Party Chief or Supervisor to ... Experience supporting LiDAR collection or scanning-based survey projects. * Strong attention to ...

What you'll do Acquire LiDAR data using UAVs and mobile platforms and process raw data into ... operating procedures, workflows, and safety standards Support project teams by delivering accurate ...

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic ... LiDAR, and RADAR. • Experience with data acquisition using Multibeam Sonars, Side Scan Sonars ...

Experience with operating satellite, cellular, and RF telemetry systems Experience with maritime situational awareness using AIS,FLIR, ECDIS, LiDAR, and RADAR. Experience with data acquisition using ...

What you'll do • Acquire LiDAR data using UAVs and mobile platforms and process raw data into ... operating procedures, workflows, and safety standards • Support project teams by delivering ...

Apply Early

... 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 ...

What you'll do • Acquire LiDAR data using UAVs and mobile platforms and process raw data into ... operating procedures, workflows, and safety standards • Support project teams by delivering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lidar Operator information

See salary details

$10

$23

$37

How much do lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 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.

How to 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 GIS, surveying, or related fields, and certifications in remote sensing or GIS software can enhance job prospects. Hands-on experience with LIDAR equipment and understanding of data collection and analysis are essential for this role.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Lidar operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in high-demand industries like surveying, construction, or autonomous vehicle development. These roles typically require technical skills, familiarity with lidar equipment, and sometimes certifications, but they often do not require a college degree. High-paying positions may also involve overtime, specialized training, or working in remote or hazardous environments.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Lidar operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized consultants, or business owners. High-paying jobs in technology, finance, or healthcare may reach that level, but lidar operation itself is generally a mid-level technical position. Achieving such income often requires advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lidar Operator position, and why are they important?

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 much do LIDAR jobs pay in the US?

Lidar operators in the US typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Higher pay may be available for those with specialized skills, advanced equipment knowledge, or supervisory roles.

What does a typical day look like for a Lidar Operator?

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 job?

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.

More about Lidar Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Lidar Operator jobs? Cities with the most Lidar Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lidar Operator jobs? The most popular types of Lidar Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Lidar Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Lidar Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lidar Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 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.
Geodetic Surveyor (Open Continuous)

Geodetic Surveyor (Open Continuous)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$49K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 529 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Geodetic Surveyors perform geodetic, geophysical, and GC-LiDAR surveys. They use, maintain, and troubleshoot survey equipment, and compute, adjust, and evaluate geodetic and geophysical (G&G) survey data. They provide technical expertise on G&G issues to customers and represent NGA in external community forums.

Qualifications:

MANDATORY QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: For this particular job, applicants must meet all competencies reflected under the Mandatory Qualification Criteria to include education (if required). Online resumes must demonstrate qualification by providing specific examples and associated results, in response to the announcement's mandatory criteria specified in this vacancy announcement:
1. Knowledge of best practices with operating Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, data collectors, electronic/robotic total stations, and/or terrestrial/mobile LiDAR.
2. Experience conducting basic scientific or statistical analysis to interpret data and draw appropriate conclusions.
3. Experience engaging with teammates to support a common goal.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: A. Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Geodesy, Mathematics, Physical Science, or a related discipline that includes at least 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of coursework in any combination of Astronomy, Cartography, Computer Science, Engineering Science, Geodesy, Geodetic Surveying, Geology, Geomatics, Geophysics, Geographic Information Systems, Mathematics, Meteorology, Orbital Mechanics, Photogrammetry, Physical Science, Physics, Remote Sensing, or Surveying. Coursework must include differential and integral calculus. -OR- B. Combination of Education and Experience: A minimum of 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of coursework in any area listed in option A, plus appropriate experience conducting work related to Civil Engineering, Geodesy, Geophysics, Geotechnical Analysis, Surveying, or a related field that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the duties associated with this work. As a rule, every 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of coursework is equivalent to one year of experience. Candidates should show that their combination of education and experience totals 4 years. -AND- LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS: Registration as a Professional Engineer or Land Surveyor is highly desirable.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; Heavy carrying, 45 pounds and over; Straight pulling; Pushing; Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Use of hands; Walking; Prolonged periods of standing; Crawling; Kneeling; Repeated bending; Climbing, use of legs and arms; Operation of crane, truck, tractor, or motor vehicle; Depth perception; Hearing (aid permitted); Distinguish principal colors and shades/hues of principal colors; Near visual acuity of 20/20 or better with or without corrective lenses; Far visual acuity of 20/30 or better binocular with or without corrective lenses
ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENT: Working outside and inside; Working around excessive noise, intermittent; Exposure to fumes, smoke, or gases; Working around slippery or uneven walking surfaces; Working around machinery with moving parts; Working around moving objects or vehicles; Working on ladders or scaffolding; Working below ground; Repetitive physical tasks; Working in harsh environments

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: In addition to the mandatory qualifications, experience in the following is desired:
1. Experience operating Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, data collectors, electronic/robotic total stations, and/or terrestrial/mobile LiDAR.
2. Experience collecting, processing, and/or analyzing LIDAR data utilizing terrestrial, mobile, and/or airborne LiDAR platforms.
3. Experience collecting, processing, and/or analyzing geophysical data, such as gravity, magnetics, or astronomic positions or azimuths.
4. Knowledge of GNSS baseline processing and/or least squares adjustment software.
5. Experience performing field work in harsh environmental conditions.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom