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Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Survey Instrument Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$22

$33

How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey instrument operator in Colorado is $22.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.76 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, 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Colorado? For Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Survey Instrument Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Survey Instrument Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,721 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Gas Operations Technician I, II or Senior

Black Hills Energy

Palmer Lake, CO

$25.72 - $38.44/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Black Hills Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Gas Operations Technician I, II or Senior

Location: Palmer Lake, CO, United States
Job ID: 36266
Date Posted: Jun 9, 2026
Position will close at 12:00am CT on Jun 17, 2026
Salary: $25.72 to $38.44 Hourly

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Job Description

Job Specifications

Black Hills Energy is people powered and purpose driven. Our team uses the power of energy to improve life for over one million customers in 800+ communities across the West and Midwest. We seek talented, caring people who embody our core values and contribute to a culture of inclusion and growth. As an organization, we believe the best part of working on our team is our commitment to making tomorrow better than today-for our customers, communities and each other.

Position summary:
In this role the Gas Operations Technician will safely perform general gas distribution system maintenance, operation, leak survey, odorization, CP and construction work.
Pay Range: This posting includes the full pay range for this position. Pay is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity.
Level I: $25.72 - $38.44 per hour 
Level II: $28.75 - $43.17 per hour
Senior: $32.36 - $48.41 per hour 
Reporting Relationship: Gas Operations Supervisor
Location: Palmer Lake, Colorado
Essential Functions:
   Provide recommendations on proper material type and size to accommodate load requirements and pressure.
   Insure accurate location and installation of facilities such as service lines, mains and meter sets.
   Proficient in underground line locating.
   Above and underground leak classification and repairs.
   Gas measurement, pressure regulation and over pressure protection installations.
   Install facilities according to specifications such as trench depth/width, proper auguring, plowing and shoring.
   Perform hot line tapping of mains and services of various sizes and type by selection of proper equipment and using correct procedures.
   Perform leak repair on underground facilities using approved repair methods and materials based on type of sizes of mains and services.
   Maintain certification and perform plastic fusion of mains and services and proper installation of mechanical fittings.
   Perform Walking Gas Leak Survey with an Instrument.
   Perform Odorant Checks and Preform Maintenance on Odorizers.
   Perform CP Checks.

Additional Responsibilities:
   Perform pressure testing of facilities to ensure integrity and satisfy company and Regulatory requirements and proper above grade corrosion control by application of recommended painting techniques and material, also below grade corrosion control and anode installation surface preparation and coating applications.
   Inspect and supervise construction activities of gas contract construction crews.
   Other duties as required.

What Is Required:
Level I: 
   High School Diploma or equivalent.
Level II: 
   High School Diploma or equivalent
   Minimum of 2 years of experience in natural gas, construction, maintenance, or other related experience is required.
Senior: 
   High School Diploma or equivalent
   Minimum of 4 years of experience in natural gas, construction, maintenance, or other related experience is required.
What Is Desired:
   Comprehensive understanding of gas operating safety procedures.
   Familiarity of Black Hills construction standards and procedures.
   Ability to pass PE Fusion certificate.
   Ability to effectively prioritize projects and equipment needs while maintaining a rigorous construction activity schedule.
   A demonstrated mechanical ability, the ability to read and understand operation manuals and has a solid understanding of regulators, meters, and pipefitting and gas operations.
   Ability to remain calm and make effective spontaneous decision during emergency situations that may affect the safety of the general public, contractors and other employees.
   Effective customer interaction and resolution skills.
   Familiarity with steel welding procedures.

This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply.


About our Company: We are a customer, growth and safety focused utility company that is dedicated to our communities. We improve life with energy as an energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture fuels unique perspectives, opening doors to new insights and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 3000 employees and serve 1.3 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas).

Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package!  Annual discretionary bonuses, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off benefits, including paid holidays and parental leave, company paid life insurance and disability benefits (short and long term), critical illness, accident & group hospital insurance, pet insurance, an employee assistance program and well-being benefits, and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.  If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the Black Hills Energy recruiting team at [email protected]. 

Black Hills Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran.  If you require reasonable accommodation, please visit  careers.blackhillsenergy.com for more information.   

Wage: 25.72 to 38.44
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