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How much do survey instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey instrument technician in the United States is $30.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do survey technicians make in the US?

Survey instrument technicians in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level technicians may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially if working with advanced surveying tools and equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Survey Instrument Technician position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Survey Instrument Technician, you need a solid understanding of surveying principles, mathematics, and spatial measurements, often supported by a relevant associate degree or technical training. Familiarity with GPS equipment, total stations, data collectors, and CAD software is essential, and some employers may require certifications such as CST (Certified Survey Technician). Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills set successful technicians apart. These competencies ensure the accuracy and reliability of survey data, supporting the success of engineering, construction, and land development projects.

What is a Survey Instrument Technician job?

A Survey Instrument Technician is responsible for maintaining, calibrating, and operating surveying equipment used in construction, mapping, and land assessment. They ensure instruments such as total stations, GPS receivers, and levels function accurately for precise measurements. Technicians may also assist surveyors in the field by setting up equipment and troubleshooting any technical issues. Their role is essential in ensuring accurate data collection for engineering, infrastructure, and land development projects.

What does a survey instrument operator do?

A survey instrument operator is responsible for setting up, calibrating, and operating surveying equipment such as total stations, GPS units, and levels to collect accurate field data. They assist surveyors in gathering measurements for mapping, construction, or land development projects, often working outdoors and following safety protocols. Proficiency with technical tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Survey Instrument Technician?

Survey Instrument Technicians are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining precise measuring equipment during land and construction surveys. Each day, you might assist licensed surveyors with field measurements, collect and log data for mapping, and check the calibration and functionality of instruments to ensure accurate results. You may also spend time both outdoors gathering measurements and indoors processing survey data using specialized software. Collaboration with survey teams, engineers, and project managers is common, making clear communication and coordination key aspects of the role.

What is the highest paid technician job?

Among technician roles, specialized fields such as aerospace, nuclear, or petroleum technicians tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Survey Instrument Technicians typically earn lower wages compared to these highly specialized or advanced technician roles, which may require additional certifications or advanced technical skills.

How do you become a survey technician?

To become a survey instrument technician, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with training or experience in surveying equipment and techniques. Many employers prefer candidates with technical training or certifications in surveying or related fields, and on-the-job training is common to develop specific skills with survey instruments and data collection tools.
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Survey Instrument Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Survey Instrument Technician 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 $62,743 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Survey Instrument Technician

Survey Instrument Technician

Thompson Engineering

Mobile, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Thompson Engineering has a full-time opportunity for a Survey Instrument Technician. The Surveyor Instrument Technician provides support to the Surveyor Party Chief in the daily responsibilities of the land surveying department. This position is responsible for collecting survey data using designated survey equipment. Ideal candidates must be willing to travel to support project needs.

Duties:

  • Operates total station, digital and automatic level, Topcon data collector, TDS software.
  • Collect data for field level notes which is reported to the Surveyor Party Chief.
  • Assist in loading and unloading survey equipment from the company vehicle.
  • Ability to travel and stay overnight based on the workload of the Survey Department.
  • Conduct all work activities in compliance with Thompson Holdings, Inc. Health, Safety & Environmental Management System, safety policies & procedures, safety execution plans and Job Safety and Environmental Analyses.
  • Attend and pro-actively participate in monthly safety meetings, project toolbox safety meetings and safety moments.
  • On time and consistent attendance is required.

Minimum Requirements

  • Five (5) years verifiable experience in surveying commercial and/or heavy industrial construction stakeout.
  • Must have working knowledge of GPS software using the Topcon Hyperlite.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License
  • Must have a TWIC card
  • Be able to read and comprehend measurements.
  • Intermediate math skills which include trigonometry and coordinate geometry.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with others.
  • Must be able to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Ability to travel and stay overnight based on the workload of the Survey Department

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in the outside elements of the field up to 100% of the time.
  • Must be able to lift a minimum of 50lbs.
  • Required to remain standing for a minimum of eight (8) hours per day and walk long distances.
  • Must be able to bend, stoop and climb on a ladder.
  • Must be able to drive a company vehicle to and from job sites.

About Thompson Engineering

Thompson Engineering was formed in 1953 to provide quality assurance for construction projects related to industrial, infrastructure, and community development. As a drilling, materials testing, construction inspection, and chemistry laboratory firm, we supported the engineering and construction industry. Our early years were building blocks that allowed us to get our feet wet - literally - performing services along the Gulf Coast's rivers, bayous, and streams.

Today, Thompson Engineering is known for leadership on projects defining skylines, coastlines, and transportation lines. We support clients in the industrial, commercial, transportation, federal, and municipal markets. While we are still one of the first companies on project sites conducting environmental assessments, land surveys, and geotechnical studies, our design teams are close behind. We now deliver cutting-edge solutions to complex infrastructure and building requirements. And our project management and construction management services mean we are often one of the last teams to leave. From start to finish, we are a proven leader in the planning, design, and construction of major transportation, economic development, and waterfront projects across the Southeast.

Thompson Engineering and Watermark Design Group are equal opportunity employers. M/F/D/V. Pre-employment drug screen and motor vehicle record checks are required.

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