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Refinery Surveying Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fisher Associates

Senior Survey Technician

Buffalo, NY · Hybrid

$33 - $39.42/hr

Associate's degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Civil Engineering Technology, or related field ... Ability to review, refine, and troubleshoot survey data from field crews, scanning, GPS, total ...

Fisher Associates

Senior Survey Technician

Rochester, NY · Hybrid

$33 - $39.42/hr

Associate's degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Civil Engineering Technology, or related field ... Ability to review, refine, and troubleshoot survey data from field crews, scanning, GPS, total ...

CRB Water

Flow Survey Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

Flow Survey Technician Position Summary The Flow Survey Technician is responsible for performing cooling water flow surveys at industrial facilities, power plants, refineries, chemical plants, and ...

DLZ Corporation

Survey & Metrology Technician

Akron, OH · On-site

... surveying, right-of-way acquisition, and materials testing across the Midwest. Join a team where ... Work safely in active industrial environments (mills, plants, refineries) * Follow DLZ and client ...

Fessler & Bowman Inc

GPS / Survey Technician

Holly, MI · On-site

Continuously refine and manage 3D modeling capabilities and provide training support to operations ... As a Survey/GPS Tech, you will split your time between the office and field. Environments include ...

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All JobsRefinery Surveying Jobs

Refinery Surveying information

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$39K

$83.6K

$126K

How much do refinery surveying jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for refinery surveying in the United States is $83,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

In refinery surveying, senior surveyors with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications tend to earn the highest salaries. Those who work in supervisory roles, manage large projects, or possess expertise in advanced surveying tools and techniques generally have higher earning potential.

What are some typical challenges encountered when surveying in a refinery environment, and how can they be managed?

Surveying in a refinery setting often presents unique challenges, such as working in areas with restricted access, navigating around complex piping and equipment, and adhering to strict safety protocols due to hazardous materials. Surveyors must coordinate closely with operations and safety teams to schedule work during safe periods and to ensure all equipment is properly isolated. Utilizing specialized surveying tools and personal protective equipment, as well as participating in regular safety briefings, helps mitigate risk and ensures accurate measurements despite the complex environment.

How much do oil and gas surveyors make?

Oil and gas surveyors typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level surveyors may start around $50,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

Is there a high demand for surveyors?

Refinery surveying is a specialized field with steady demand due to ongoing maintenance, construction, and safety inspections in the energy industry. Employment opportunities are influenced by industry activity, project volume, and the need for accurate measurements using tools like total stations and GPS equipment.

What qualifications do I need for surveying?

Refinery surveyors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in surveying, geomatics, or a related field. Certification or licensing, such as a state surveyor license, may be required, along with proficiency in surveying tools like total stations and GPS equipment. Strong math skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors in various conditions are also important.

What is refinery surveying?

Refinery surveying is the process of measuring and mapping the physical layout, structures, and equipment within a petroleum refinery. Surveyors use specialized tools and technologies to collect precise data, which is critical for planning construction, maintenance, and upgrades. Their work ensures that all modifications and installations are accurately documented and that safety and regulatory standards are met. Surveying in a refinery environment often requires knowledge of both traditional land surveying and the unique challenges of industrial sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refinery Surveyor, and why are they important?

To excel as a Refinery Surveyor, you need a solid foundation in surveying techniques, mathematics, and a relevant engineering or surveying qualification. Familiarity with tools such as total stations, GPS equipment, CAD software, and industry-specific safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial to ensure accuracy and teamwork. These competencies are vital for delivering precise measurements, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient refinery operations.

What is the difference between Refinery Surveying vs Pipeline Surveying?

AspectRefinery SurveyingPipeline Surveying
CredentialsSurveying certifications, GIS knowledgeSurveying certifications, GIS knowledge
Work EnvironmentRefineries, industrial sitesPipeline routes, outdoor terrains
Industry UsageOil & gas refineries, industrial projectsOil & gas pipelines, infrastructure

Refinery Surveying involves mapping and measuring within refinery facilities, focusing on plant layouts and industrial structures. Pipeline Surveying, on the other hand, concentrates on route planning and mapping for pipelines across outdoor terrains. Both roles require similar certifications and often overlap in industry applications, but they differ mainly in work environment and specific project focus.

More about Refinery Surveying jobs
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What states have the most Refinery Surveying jobs? States with the most job openings for Refinery Surveying jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Surveying jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Surveying jobs are:
Refinery Surveying jobs near you

Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) - Flexible Office or Remote

Spotlock

Lakewood, NJ • On-site, Remote

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

About the Opportunity:

A well-established Land Surveying and Civil Engineering firm based in Lakewood, NJ is seeking a Licensed Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) to bring added depth, quality control, and leadership to their growing Survey Department. Whether you're a seasoned veteran looking to scale back hours while offering mentorship, or a rising leader ready to help drive a survey team forward—this role offers flexibility and a strong future.

What Makes This Unique:

  • Flexible Arrangement: Open to both in-office or remote work, with a schedule tailored to the candidate's availability—full-time or part-time
  • Impact-Focused Role: You'll play a central role in mentoring survey staff, checking in on field crews, reviewing deliverables, and ensuring adherence to standards and procedures.
  • Leadership Opportunity: You'll be helping guide a department that's stabilized its field operations and built a solid base of office support. Now, they're looking to take the next step—elevating quality, leadership, and accountability.

Responsibilities May Include (Based on Experience and Availability):

  • Serve as the in-house or on-call subject matter expert for survey-related questions and quality assurance.
  • Conduct field inspections and follow-ups with crews as needed to maintain standards.
  • Review and sign off on survey documents, plats, and legal descriptions.
  • Help implement or refine survey standards, QA/QC procedures, and documentation practices.

Ideal Candidate:

  • Active New Jersey PLS license.
  • Minimum 5–10 years of professional land surveying experience, ideally including some leadership or mentorship.
  • Comfortable working autonomously and contributing to a collaborative team environment.
  • Strong understanding of New Jersey land use, survey standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Interest in growing with a firm—or helping it grow toward a sustainable future.

Compensation & Schedule:

  • Flexible pay structure depending on your role—whether you're a full-time leader, part-time contributor, or semi-retired PLS looking to stay active.
  • This could be a 60-hour/week cornerstone role, or a lighter-touch advisory/QA role—they're willing to tailor the opportunity to the right person.

Why Join?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a survey department within a company that values its people and understands that the right licensed surveyor can be the foundation for long-term success. Whether you're looking for your next challenge or a way to give back and mentor the next generation, they'd love to connect.