Crew Chief I - Surveying
Durham, NC · On-site
Position Purpose Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office ...
Crew Chief I - Surveying
Durham, NC · On-site
Position Purpose Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office ...
Position Purpose Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office ...
Quick apply
Position Purpose Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office ...
This position supervises survey crew employees ensuring all work is completed efficiently and ... Demonstrate core competencies of the Instrument Operator Level II * Knowledge of TDS Software ...
Quick apply
This position supervises survey crew employees ensuring all work is completed efficiently and ... Demonstrate core competencies of the Instrument Operator Level II * Knowledge of TDS Software ...
This position supervises survey crew employees ensuring all work is completed efficiently and ... Demonstrate core competencies of the Instrument Operator Level II * Knowledge of TDS Software ...
This position supervises survey crew employees ensuring all work is completed efficiently and ... Demonstrate core competencies of the Instrument Operator Level II * Knowledge of TDS Software ...
Project Surveyor
Raleigh, NC · Remote
The position is a single man crew operating a Robotic Instrument and GPS. Key Responsibilities ... Interpret construction plans and specifications to ensure accurate survey layout. Perform Various ...
Quick apply
Project Surveyor
Raleigh, NC · Remote
The position is a single man crew operating a Robotic Instrument and GPS. Key Responsibilities ... Interpret construction plans and specifications to ensure accurate survey layout. Perform Various ...
Survey Instrument Operator information
See Raleigh, NC salary details
$14.49 - $15.97
5% of jobs
$15.97 - $17.46
13% of jobs
$18.15 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.46 - $18.95
15% of jobs
The median wage is $20.27 / hr.
$18.95 - $20.44
19% of jobs
$20.44 - $21.92
17% of jobs
$22.51 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.92 - $23.41
15% of jobs
$23.41 - $24.90
6% of jobs
$24.90 - $26.38
2% of jobs
$26.38 - $27.87
2% of jobs
$27.87 - $29.36
3% of jobs
$29.36 - $30.84
2% of jobs
$14
$21
$30
How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey instrument operator in Raleigh, NC is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $22.88 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?
| Aspect | Survey Instrument Operator | Geospatial Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma, survey-specific certifications | Associate's or bachelor's degree in geospatial sciences or related field |
| Work Environment | Outdoor survey sites, construction areas | Office, GIS labs, field data collection |
| Industry Usage | Construction, surveying firms, engineering | Urban 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 Raleigh, NC? For Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Survey Instrument Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Survey Instrument Operator job openings:
Job description
McAdams is a full-service land planning, landscape architecture, civil engineering, transportation, and geomatics firm located in North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and Florida. We seek to partner with our clients to create meaningful experiences through inspired design. Our employees are what make McAdams different. We bring experiences to the forefront of everything we do, and to do that takes special people.
Position Purpose
Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office support staff daily.
Essential Functions + Responsibilities
Qualifications
Preferences
McAdams is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard for race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran's status, or any other legally protected status.
If you need assistance with our online application system process, please contact the Human Resources Team at 919.361.5000 or hrteam@mcadamsco.com.
Please read these notices for important information regarding applying for work with McAdams.
Position Purpose
Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office support staff daily.
Essential Functions + Responsibilities
- Responsible for the operation of a field survey crew
- Demonstrate an ability to prepare proper field notes and manage field data files in a manner that they can be easily interpreted and cyphered by office support staff
- Turns in notes and field files daily
- Organize and maintain all equipment and vehicles
- Maintain good client relations to foster and perpetuate long-term relationships
- Manage and mentor field personnel to ensure that project objectives are met under budget and in a timely manner
- Work outdoors in all weather conditions
Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in survey field work
- Knowledge of TDS Software, Trimble Robotics, GPS equipment
- Punctual and dependable
- Hardworking and detail-oriented
- Candidates must have a valid driver's license
- Candidates will have to successfully pass a motor vehicle records check, drug test, and functional assessment
Preferences
- 5+ years of experience as a Crew Chief in Construction Staking and/or Surveying preferred
- CAD experience preferred
McAdams is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard for race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran's status, or any other legally protected status.
If you need assistance with our online application system process, please contact the Human Resources Team at 919.361.5000 or hrteam@mcadamsco.com.
Please read these notices for important information regarding applying for work with McAdams.
- Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
- E-Verify (English/Spanish)
- Right to Work (English/Spanish)
About McAdams
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Civil engineering construction
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Durham, NC, US
Year founded
1979