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Survey Instrument Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MasTec Civil

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

Wood PLC

Survey Instrument Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

The Survey Instrument Operator measures distances, directions, and angles between points on, above, and below the Earth's surface. Must have experience operating electronic survey data collectors ...

Wood PLC

Survey Instrument Operator

Houston, TX

The Survey Instrument Operator measures distances, directions, and angles between points on, above, and below the Earth's surface. Must have experience operating electronic survey data collectors ...

MasTec Inc

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

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 ...

MasTec Inc

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

MasTec Inc

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

The Instrument Operator assists Land Surveyors and Party Chiefs in application of principles, methods, and techniques of civil engineering and land surveying by performing the following duties.

MasTec Inc

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

MasTec Inc

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

MasTec Inc

Survey Instrument Operator

Nashville, TN

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

New

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Survey Instrument Operator information

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How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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.

How much do Rpls make?

Survey Instrument Operators in Texas typically earn an average hourly wage of $15 to $25, depending on experience and location. They often work with specialized equipment and may require certification or training in survey methods and safety protocols.

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 does a survey instrument operator do?

A survey instrument operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining survey equipment such as total stations, GPS units, and data collectors during field surveys. They ensure accurate data collection by following survey protocols and may assist with data recording and troubleshooting equipment issues. The role often requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of surveying procedures.

How much do surveyors make per hour?

Survey Instrument Operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the surveys. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Certifications and familiarity with surveying equipment can also influence pay rates.

Is AI going to replace surveyors?

AI is unlikely to fully replace surveyors, including Survey Instrument Operators, because their work requires on-site measurements, interpretation of complex environments, and decision-making that current AI cannot replicate. However, AI and automation tools can assist surveyors by improving data collection, processing, and accuracy. Skilled surveyors will continue to be essential for overseeing projects and ensuring precise results.
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, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,383 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Survey Instrument Operator

MasTec Civil

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

New

Job description

Overview
MasTec Civil is looking for a skilled Instrument Man to join our team in Nashville, TN! You'll play a key role in collecting vital field data and mastering high-tech surveying equipment. Precision is your game, come help us build the future. Apply now!
An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They assist the surveyor in collecting accurate field data for construction, mapping, and boundary determination. Their duties include setting up equipment, recording measurements, and ensuring data accuracy. This role requires precision, attention to detail, and familiarity with surveying techniques and tools.
Company Overview
Founded in 1987, MasTec Civil (formerly known as Condotte America), a MasTec Company, is a heavy highway contractor specializing in the construction of complex transportation projects that include roadway, bridges, interchanges, mass transit, and tolling facilities. In short, we build the roads and bridges connecting our families, communities, and nation. In doing so, client satisfaction is of primary importance to us, and our record reflects our emphasis on understanding our client needs in order to exceed their expectations.
MasTec Civil is part of the MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure (CE&I) business segment. The CE&I segment generates over $4.5 billion in annual revenue, providing construction services across our renewables, industrial, infrastructure, and general building operating groups. Sustainability and safety are foundational to our culture and influence everything we do.
MasTec, a minority-owned Fortune 500 company, has shaped the construction industry for more than 90 years. With over 35,000 employees and 400 offices nationwide, we provide flexibility and career growth in dynamic work environments. Join one of the largest construction firms in the country (Engineering News-Record [ENR]: #1 in Power, #16 Top 50 Domestic Heavy Contractors, #13 Transportation Contractor).
Responsibilities
  • The geomatics instrument operator uses a variety of land survey instruments to support a crew in their daily operations.
  • Assists in the completion of field surveys under the supervision of a Crew Chief.
  • Responsible for the operation, checking, and basic field adjustments of land survey equipment. E.g. tripods, tribraches, levels, total stations, GNSS receivers, data radios/modems.
  • Utilize survey controllers and software to collect geospatial data and perform survey computations.
  • Read and interpret various types of maps and plans.
  • Complete neat and orderly field notes for land survey operations with supervision from Crew Chief
  • Keeps Crew Chief informed of problems and progress.
  • Load and unload trucks with land survey equipment and supplies
  • Clean and maintain land survey equipment, tools, and vehicles.
  • Follow company safety procedures for land survey operations.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
  • A minimum of 1 year of survey experience as Rodman, Instrument Man
  • Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with management and fellow employees.

What's in it for You
Financial Wellbeing
  • Competitive pay with ongoing performance review and merit increase
  • 401(k) with company match & Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Flexible spending account (Healthcare & Dependent care)

Health & Wellness
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (plan choice) - coverage for spouse, domestic partner, and children
  • Diabetes Management, Telehealth Coverage, Prescription Drug Plan, Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program

Planning for the Unexpected
  • Short and long-term disability, life insurance, and accidental death & dismemberment
  • Voluntary life insurance, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity coverage
  • Emergency Travel Assistance Program
  • Group legal plan

Position may be subject to pre-employment screening, which may include background check and drug testing. Accessibility: If you need accommodation as part of the employment process, contact ceicareers@mastec.com. Due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to respond to individual requests regarding application status. Please log into your candidate profile for up-to-date information.
MasTec, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
Disclaimer: MasTec and our Subsidiaries will never ask prospective employees for any form of payment or money transfer as part of job application or onboarding. We do not ask prospective employees for information about credit cards or personal passwords, and it does not require applicants to purchase equipment or software. Ensure that all recruiter email addresses end in @mastec.com or @talent.icims.com. If you suspect you are the target of a scam, we advise you to contact your local law enforcement agency and report fraud at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure and our subsidiaries do not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies without a valid signed agreement and partnership with the Corporate Talent Acquisition Team.
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