ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Survey Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CESO, Inc.

Survey Crew Chief

Columbus, OH · On-site

$60K - $104K/yr

Mentors junior staff members on survey field procedures, equipment, field notes, communications and CESO standard survey operating procedures according to the CESO survey manual. * Operates survey ...

CESO, Inc.

Survey Crew Chief

Columbus, OH

$60K - $104K/yr

Mentors junior staff members on survey field procedures, equipment, field notes, communications and CESO standard survey operating procedures according to the CESO survey manual. * Operates survey ...

CESO, Inc.

Survey Crew Chief

Columbus, OH

Mentors junior staff members on survey field procedures, equipment, field notes, communications and CESO standard survey operating procedures according to the CESO survey manual. * Operates survey ...

VHB

Survey Equipment Operator

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION VHB's Williamsburg, Virginia and Richmond, VA offices are seeking a Survey Equipment Operator to join our Survey/Geomatics team. Responsibilities * Operation, transport ...

VHB

Survey Equipment Operator

Williamsburg, VA · Hybrid

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION VHB's Williamsburg, Virginia and Richmond, VA offices are seeking a Survey Equipment Operator to join our Survey/Geomatics team. Responsibilities * Operation, transport ...

VHB

Survey Equipment Operator

Richmond, VA · Hybrid

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION VHB's Williamsburg, Virginia and Richmond, VA offices are seeking a Survey Equipment Operator to join our Survey/Geomatics team. Responsibilities * Operation, transport ...

VHB

Survey Equipment Operator

Williamsburg, VA · Hybrid

ABOUT THE POSITION VHB's Williamsburg, Virginia and Richmond, VA offices are seeking a Survey Equipment Operator to join our Survey/Geomatics team. Responsibilities * Operation, transport and setup ...

Team Fishel

Survey Instrument Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Survey Instrument Operators at Team Fishel assist the Survey Crew Leader on projects by performing all related work to conducting surveys. Responsibilities * Using GPS equipment to set control ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSurvey Operator Jobs

Survey Operator information

See salary details

$14

$31

$48

How much do survey operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey operator in the United States is $31.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Survey Operators in the field, and how can they be managed?

Survey Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, dealing with difficult terrain, and ensuring the accuracy of data collection. Managing these challenges involves thorough preparation, using appropriate safety gear, and regularly calibrating equipment. Additionally, effective communication with team members and flexibility in adjusting to changing site conditions are key to maintaining productivity and data quality.

What does a Survey Operator do?

A Survey Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment used to measure and collect data about land, structures, or other sites. They work closely with surveyors and engineers to gather precise measurements for maps, construction projects, and legal boundaries. Their duties often include using GPS devices, total stations, and computer software to ensure accurate data collection and documentation. Survey Operators also help maintain safety standards on site and may assist in analyzing the data collected.

Is surveying a good paying job?

Surveying can be a well-paying profession, especially for experienced surveyors or those with specialized skills and certifications. Salaries vary by region and industry, with opportunities for overtime and advancement increasing earning potential.

What is the difference between Survey Operator vs Geospatial Technician?

AspectSurvey OperatorGeospatial Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, survey certificationAssociate's or bachelor's in geospatial or related field
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, fieldworkOffice, field, GIS labs
Industry UsageConstruction, surveying firms, engineeringUrban planning, GIS mapping, environmental projects

Survey Operators primarily perform field measurements and data collection for surveying projects, often working outdoors. Geospatial Technicians handle data processing, mapping, and analysis using GIS software, often working in offices. While both roles support surveying projects, Survey Operators focus on fieldwork, whereas Geospatial Technicians focus on data management and analysis.

What is a survey operator?

A survey operator is a professional who conducts and manages surveys to collect data for research, marketing, or public opinion purposes. They typically operate survey equipment, administer questionnaires, and ensure data accuracy, often working in the field or office environment. Skills in communication, attention to detail, and familiarity with survey tools are important for this role.

Is surveying going to be replaced by AI?

Survey operators perform tasks that involve data collection, measurement, and site assessment, which currently require human judgment and physical presence. While AI and automation tools can assist with data processing and analysis, they are unlikely to fully replace the need for skilled surveyors in the near future due to the complexity and precision required in surveying work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Survey Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Survey Operator, you need a solid understanding of surveying principles, data collection, and measurement techniques, often supported by a relevant diploma or technical training. Proficiency with surveying instruments (such as total stations and GPS), CAD software, and data logging systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate data handling and teamwork. These competencies ensure precise survey results, efficient project execution, and compliance with industry standards.

What is a surveyor's top salary?

A surveyor's top salary can reach around $80,000 to $100,000 annually for experienced professionals with specialized skills and certifications. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and industry, with senior surveyors or those working in high-demand areas earning higher compensation.
More about Survey Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Survey Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Survey Operator jobs are:
Survey Operator jobs near you

Part-Time Occupancy Survey Operator

Far Inspections

Texarkana, TX • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Ad Ref: FAR-02630
Do not fill out any form or use any other apply button on this page. Use the blue link below to submit your application.
Apply HERE Only
FAR Inspections is actively seeking a reliable independent contractor to perform residential mortgage inspections in Bowie County, Texas and surrounding communities. If you live in or near Texarkana or anywhere in Bowie County, this is a great opportunity to earn supplemental or full-time income on your own schedule.
FAR Inspections is a leading provider of property data for mortgage lenders nationwide. Based in Reno, NV, we have a 12-year track record of excellence and stability in the mortgage field services industry. We partner with highly motivated independent contractors who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and professional autonomy.
The Opportunity
Earn a predictable supplemental or full-time income on a flexible schedule that you control. As a Field Inspector covering Bowie County, you will perform residential occupancy verifications. These are brief, exterior visits to confirm property status and report on general conditions.
  • Autonomy: You manage your own routing, schedule, and territory.
  • Efficiency: Standard inspections are designed for speed, typically requiring only 5-6 minutes on-site.
  • Consistency: Enjoy stable, month-to-month volume in your assigned county.
Workflow & Responsibilities
  • Determine property occupancy status based on industry-standard indicators.
  • Capture 9+ photos and submit brief reports using industry-standard mobile applications.
  • Maintain a high level of reliability regarding territory coverage and deadlines.

Note: This role requires spending extended periods of time driving and making numerous stops throughout the day in your assigned territory. This territory features concentrated suburban neighborhoods with efficient stop-to-stop routing and predictable daily volume.
Requirements
As an independent contractor, you are responsible for providing your own equipment, including:
  • Reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle.
  • Smartphone (Android or iPhone) capable of running mobile reporting apps.
  • Computer with an internet connection and a printer.
  • Strong time-management skills to meet deadlines without direct supervision.
  • Ability to pass a standard background check.
Earnings & Volume
  • Flat-Rate Pay: This is a 1099 position where you are paid a set fee for every inspection completed.
  • Earning Potential: While pay is per-inspection, efficient contractors typically earn the equivalent of $25-$35 per hour.
  • Volume: Rates and inspection volume vary by county. Lower volume counties typically feature higher per-inspection rates, while higher volume counties offer more consistent daily work.
  • This Territory: Bowie County averages approximately 20 inspections per month.
Apply HERE Only
Do not fill out any form or use any other apply button on this page. Use the blue link above to submit your application.

Apply