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Survey Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Team Fishel

Survey Instrument Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Survey Instrument Operators at Team Fishel assist the Survey Crew Leader on projects by performing all related work to conducting surveys. Responsibilities * Using GPS equipment to set control ...

T. Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

Job Title Survey Instrument Operator Job Type Full-time Location Houma - Houma, LA 70363 US (Primary) Category Survey Education Vocational Instrument Operator T. Baker Smith, LLC is seeking a Land ...

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Lafayette, LA · On-site

Job Title Survey Instrument Operator Job Type Full-time Location Lafayette - Lafayette, LA 70503 US (Primary) Category Associate Education High School Instrument Operator T. Baker Smith, LLC is ...

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Covington, LA · On-site

Job Title Survey Instrument Operator Job Type Full-time Location Covington - Covington, LA 70433 US Metairie - Metairie, LA 70003 US (Primary) Category Associate Education High School Instrument ...

FEI Engineering

Survey Instrument Operator

Arden, NC · On-site

Survey Instrument Operator Arden, NC | Surveying Start Your Career in the Field FEI is seeking a Survey Instrument Operator to join our land development surveying team. This is a hands-on ...

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

Job Title Survey Instrument Operator Job Type Full-time Location Houma - Houma, LA 70363 US (Primary) Category Survey Education Vocational Instrument Operator T. Baker Smith, LLC is seeking a Land ...

Ardurra

Survey Instrument Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

Ardurra is seeking a Survey Instrument Operator II to join our team in Dallas, TX . Ardurra is a multidisciplinary civil engineering services firm which provides broad-based solutions tailored to the ...

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How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey instrument operator in the United States is $21.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Survey Instrument Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Survey Instrument Operator, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, mathematics, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional training in surveying preferred. Familiarity with electronic total stations, GPS equipment, and data collection software is essential for accurate field measurements. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure precise data collection and effective collaboration with survey crews. These skills are crucial for producing reliable survey results that support engineering, construction, and land development projects.

What are some common challenges a Survey Instrument Operator might face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Survey Instrument Operators often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, which can impact both comfort and the accuracy of equipment readings. Navigating uneven terrain and ensuring precise alignment of instruments are also regular challenges. To address these issues, operators should be well-versed in equipment calibration, use protective gear for weather, and maintain clear communication with their team to resolve discrepancies quickly. Adapting to changing environments and staying updated on the latest surveying technologies can further enhance efficiency and accuracy.

What are Survey Instrument Operators?

Survey Instrument Operators are professionals who assist land surveyors by setting up, operating, and maintaining surveying equipment such as total stations, GPS units, and levels. They play a crucial role in collecting accurate measurements of land features, boundaries, and construction sites. Their work supports the creation of maps, legal property descriptions, and engineering plans. Survey Instrument Operators often work outdoors in various weather conditions and must ensure the precision and reliability of the data collected.

What is the difference between Survey Instrument Operator vs Geospatial Technician?

AspectSurvey Instrument OperatorGeospatial Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, survey-specific certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in geospatial sciences or related field
Work EnvironmentOutdoor survey sites, construction areasOffice, GIS labs, field data collection
Industry UsageConstruction, surveying firms, engineeringUrban planning, GIS mapping, environmental projects

Survey Instrument Operators primarily focus on operating survey equipment in the field, while Geospatial Technicians handle data processing, mapping, and GIS analysis. Both roles often collaborate but differ in their technical focus and educational requirements.

More about Survey Instrument Operator jobs
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Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Survey Instrument Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,383 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Survey Instrument Operator

Survey Instrument Operator

Radise International LLC

Deerfield Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Craig A. Smith & Associates, LLC (CAS), part of the Smart Infrastructure Group (SIG), is seeking an experienced Survey Technician to join our growing team in Deerfield Beach, Florida.

About CAS:
Craig A. Smith & Associates, LLC (CAS) is a well-established civil engineering and surveying firm with over 44 years of experience serving South Florida. We are committed to delivering high-quality engineering and surveying services while fostering a professional, team-oriented work environment.

About Smart Infrastructure Group (SIG):

Smart Infrastructure Group (SIG) is a leading infrastructure and engineering organization headquartered in Riviera Beach, Florida. Through its family of companies, SIG provides innovative solutions in civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing (CMT), construction inspection, GIS, geo-structural monitoring, IT services, and CTQP training. Our companies are recognized for their commitment to safety, quality, sustainability, and client success.

Position: Survey Instrument Operator

Duration: Fulltime

Location: Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Job Description:

  • Possess a minimum of 1-3 years of experience as a Survey Instrument Operator.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; an associate's or bachelor's degree in Surveying or a related field is preferred.
  • Comprehensive knowledge and expertise in operating survey instruments and equipment.
  • Familiarity with Topcon and/or Trimble surveying equipment is highly desirable.
  • Proficiency in electronic data collection methods.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Willingness to travel out of town as required to fulfill project demands is a must.