ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Survey Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prime Engineering, Inc.

Be Seen First

Survey Instrument Operator

Lakeville, MA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Prime Engineering seeks a Survey Instrument Operator for a survey field crew. As a Survey Instrument Operator, you will assist the Survey Party Chief in the performance of boundary, topographic ...

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

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

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 ...

Nobis Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Concord, NH · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

As a Survey Instrument Operator, you'll play a key role in supporting field operations, working outdoors on meaningful projects while learning from experienced professionals. If you're eager to build ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSurvey Instrument Operator Jobs

Survey Instrument Operator information

See salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a survey instrument operator?

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 is a survey instrument operator?

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
What cities are hiring for Survey Instrument Operator jobs? Cities with the most Survey Instrument Operator job openings:
What states have the most Survey Instrument Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Survey Instrument Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Survey Instrument Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Survey Instrument Operator jobs are:
Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Survey Instrument Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,383 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Survey Instrument Operator

Prime Engineering, Inc.

Lakeville, MA • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Prime Engineering seeks a Survey Instrument Operator for a survey field crew. As a Survey Instrument Operator, you will assist the Survey Party Chief in the performance of boundary, topographic, title insurance, and construction surveys. Minimum qualifications include proficient use of survey total station and data collector, good communication skills, the ability to work in a team environment, and the ability to physically and safely work outdoors year round in all weather conditions. The position is based in Lakeville, MA and involves traveling to and from various job sites. Possession of a valid Massachusetts Driver's License is required. We are willing to train the right candidate.