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Rod Man Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Survey Crew Chief

Dothan, AL · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Ability to manage 2, 3, and 4 man field teams for maximum production.* Complete surveys in multiple ... Anticipate where shots need to be taken without being told, and run topo and level rod efficiently.

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Rod Man information

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$15

$20

$24

How much do rod man jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for rod man in Alabama is $20.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rod man?

A Rod Man is a member of a surveying crew who is responsible for handling and positioning the leveling rod, which is used to measure elevations and distances at a construction site. The Rod Man assists the surveyor by holding the rod steady at designated points so measurements can be taken accurately. This role is crucial for ensuring that buildings, roads, and other structures are constructed according to precise plans and elevations. Rod Men often work outdoors and may also help with other tasks like marking boundaries or assisting with equipment setup.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a rod man on a surveying crew?

As a Rod Man, your daily tasks will primarily involve assisting the survey crew by setting up and moving survey equipment, holding the survey rod or prism pole, and recording measurements in the field. You’ll work closely with party chiefs and instrument operators to ensure accurate data collection, often spending much of your time outdoors in various weather conditions. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to follow instructions precisely, as well as good teamwork and communication skills. Over time, gaining experience as a Rod Man can open opportunities to advance to instrument operator or party chief positions within the surveying field.

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

To thrive as a Rod Man, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with survey equipment such as total stations, GPS units, and data collectors is typically required, and safety training or certifications may be beneficial. Strong communication, attention to detail, and physical stamina are essential soft skills for collaborating with survey teams and working outdoors in various conditions. These competencies ensure accurate data collection and support the successful completion of surveying projects.

What is the difference between Rod Man vs Laborer?

AspectRod ManLaborer
CertificationsNone required, but OSHA safety training preferredNone required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, focusing on rebar installationGeneral construction sites, assisting with various tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesMeasuring, cutting, and placing rebar; assisting with reinforcement setupGeneral site cleanup, material handling, assisting tradespeople

While both roles work on construction sites, a Rod Man specializes in rebar placement and requires specific knowledge of reinforcement materials. A Laborer performs broader tasks, supporting various construction activities without specialized skills. The roles often overlap in work environment but differ in technical responsibilities and focus.

What does a rod man do?

A rod man is a construction or surveying worker responsible for measuring and marking land boundaries using tools like a leveling rod or transit. They assist surveyors by providing accurate distance and elevation data to help create maps and plans. Attention to detail and knowledge of surveying equipment are essential for this role.
Infographic showing various Rod Man job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Internship, and 59% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,781 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

$55 - $75/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

# Survey Crew ChiefDothan, AL 36303## OverviewPosition TypeFull TimeJob ShiftAny## Description## POSITION SUMMARYThe Survey Crew Chief directs and participates in the work activities of personnel performing equipment operations, technical skills, and manual labor while controlling those tasks. Responsible for leading field surveying activities, including maintenance of survey equipment. Keeps abreast of the latest surveying methods and recommends revisions to the surveying procedures.## ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS* Responsible for daily and weekly updates on all projects assigned.* Ability to manage 2, 3, and 4 man field teams for maximum production.* Complete surveys in multiple phases of field surveying (FDOT, Mortgage Survey, Construction Layout, etc.)* Research and obtain maps, deeds, CCRs, project control, and any other documentation to increase accuracy and performance on a project without assistance.* Sets up, adjusts, and operates surveying equipment, including electronic total station, data collector, and GPS equipment, to measure distances, elevations, and angles.* Prepares field notes and drawings; and performs field surveying for roadway, bridges, and flood control projects, including installing surveying construction stakes, tying out existing intersection ties, and locating or establishing vertical and horizontal control, right of way, monuments, corners, boundaries, and property lines following SSMC or SSMC Clients' requirements.* Ensure that the truck has the necessary materials for each day's week's work tasks.* Load and unload survey equipment to and from work vehicle.* Set up backsights and foresights.* Efficiently demonstrate set up, level, and operation of instruments.* Correctly make measurements of instrument heights. Perform Axis tests.* Anticipate where shots need to be taken without being told, and run topo and level rod efficiently.* Reporting daily progress to the Project Manager.* Take ownership of a project and instruct the crew on accurate and efficient methods.* Perform calculations in the field for search points and set permanent markers.* Responsible for all equipment and promptly reporting any accidents.* Ability to recognize, correct, and avoid errors in the field that would require return trips.* Ability to train in multiple facets of surveying techniques and methodology.* Enter crew time daily.* Drive rebar, stakes, and hubs into the ground using a hammer.* Maintain and operate survey-grade instruments.* Set up safety equipment and flag traffic when necessary.* Obtain an advanced level of knowledge of safety procedures.* Guide the Rodman and Instrument Person.* Must wear Personal Protective Equipment Required: (i.e., Safety Boots).* May perform light office duties including but not limited to filing, making copies, and scanning.* May carry out other duties as assigned by management.## Qualifications## EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE* A high school diploma or equivalent is required; an associate's degree in a related field is preferred.* A minimum of 3 years of survey experience as Rodman, Instrument Man, or equivalent role.* Prior experience surveying and proven they can perform all Rodman and Instrument Person tasks.* Must obtain necessary badges and certifications to enter sites and perform work (i.e., MOT, School badges, Duke Energy, CSX, DOD, etc.).## SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES* Computer skills and technical competence.* Must be able to stand or walk for long periods.* Ability to work in inclement weather.* Ability to take instruction and constructive criticism.* Ability to work out of town if the job requires it.* Ability to work overtime.* Ability to deal with the public while completing work tasks.* Ability to train and mentor crew members.* Reflects a positive desire to be a valuable member of Team SSMC.* Punctuality and regular attendance are required; appropriate dress and appearance.* Must have the ability to communicate well with clients and other team members.* Time management skills to achieve operational objectives within a set deadline.* Ability to solve practical problems and deal with various concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.* Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.* Maintain positive external relationships of the company consistent with the objective, operating philosophy, and desired image of the company.* Works with the team; contributes to a positive team environment; welcomes feedback.* Works with integrity and ethics; supports the organization's culture, goals, and values.## PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS* Ability to perform physical tasks such as walking long distances, standing for long periods, frequently lifting and moving up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lifting and moving up to 100 pounds. Work may require climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, walking on uneven ground, squatting, crawling, and grasping.* Ability to clear lines with power equipment or hand tools is required.* May require frequent exposure to adverse and hazardous environmental conditions, including but not limited to excessive noise levels, inclement weather conditions, exposure to wastewater, working in congested residential areas, in and around main highways and roads, trenches, and deep excavations. May be exposed to dirt, dust, noises, fumes, odors, water, and mud. Must be able to work on slippery, loose, uneven, and sloped surfaces.* Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.## WORK ENVIRONMENTThe noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high. **Occasional evening, weekend, and overtime work may be required to complete projects. Must be open to travel to remote field locations, including overnight stays.** #J-18808-Ljbffr