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Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

As a Surveying Instrument Operator, you will usually work a 10-hour day, 4 days a week with occasional opportunities for overtime. You will primarily spend time outdoors and engage in active ...

Survey Instrument Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$42K - $53K/yr

As a Surveying Instrument Operator, you will usually work a 10-hour day, 4 days a week with occasional opportunities for overtime. You will primarily spend time outdoors and engage in active ...

We are collecting resumes for a Survey/Instrument Operator to join our Atlanta, GA team as new projects come in. Come join us! Job responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Hold prism pole ...

Field Surveyor

Suwanee, GA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Salary based on Experience The Instrument Operator / Field Surveyor is responsible for, but not limited to: * The successful and accurate completion of the field survey. * The utilization of the ...

The Instrument man is responsible for total station setup and operating electronic data collectors. All project survey points must be retained for company records and archived. In addition, the ...

Rodperson

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Places survey stakes at designated points, as instructed. * Cleans, carries and assumes ... or instrument operator preferred. No related experience is required. Interest in pursuing a ...

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Survey Instrument Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey instrument operator in Georgia is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.90 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.

What are popular job titles related to Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Georgia? For Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Georgia are:
Infographic showing various Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,321 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


KCI Technologies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 440 rated engineering


Job description

Join us as we Rise to the Challenge

At KCI, we’re building an enduring community that provides unparalleled value to our employee-owners. We make our mark designing and delivering our world-class solutions, so we invest deeply in supporting and developing our team. We reward integrity and commitment, and when we do well, you do well. Our employee’s have the freedom to innovate, unlimited growth, a voice that matters, a lifestyle that works, and skin in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ourselves, each other, and the world around us. 

 

THE COMPANY

KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and construction firm serving clients throughout the United States. KCI is recognized as an industry leader, employing cutting-edge technologies, management practices and strategic growth initiatives. Employee ownership fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encourages technical expertise, and shapes strategic planning.

KCI is currently ranked #50 on Engineering News-Record’s list of the Top 500 design firms in the nation.

KCI BENEFITS INFORMATION

We offer a competitive compensation package, family friendly benefits, a collaborative working environment, and the training, mentoring and resources you need to advance in your career.

We understand that you have choices, and we know that together we will make a great team!

KCI is committed to building a diverse and inclusive staff, and we encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities to apply.

KCI Technologies, Inc. is 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 or veteran status.


Our Survey Practice in South Florida is looking for an Instrument Operator to join our team! This person will work with our team of Land Surveyors to support our projects local to the area. This is a field based position that requires regular overnight travel. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Instrument Operator is responsible for performing technical tasks in the field with a high degree of accuracy and professionalism. This role involves working closely with team members, clients, and supervisors to ensure that all project requirements are met in accordance with industry standards, safety regulations, and KCI policies. The Instrument Operator will actively participate in cross-training opportunities to build a stronger team, communicate workflow needs, and proactively work to resolve problems in the field.

  • Experience: experience on a Survey field crew preforming Utility surveys, ALTA surveys, boundary, topographic, construction layout and telecom surveys. 
  • Skills: proficient with Trimble survey equipment and other basic survey field equipment.
  • Duties: Responsible for using survey equipment to preform ALTA surveys, boundary surveys, topographic surveys, utility surveys, construction layout, and telecommunication surveys as directed by field crew leader.
  • Ability to perform some equipment maintenance tasks a plus.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds, walk for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions and climates, willing to work evenings/weekends when required, willing to travel for overnight and extended stay projects as required.

* Essential Duties and Responsibilities are the basic job functions that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation.


Education and/or Skills Required:

  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience
  • Highschool Diploma/GED

Certificates, licenses, and/or Registrations Required:

  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Ability to maintain required certifications.

Pre-employment drug screening is a condition of employment. Background and motor vehicle checks may be required based upon position.


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