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Survey Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Survey Crew Chief

Columbus, OH · On-site

$61 - $104.55/hr

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 ...

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Land Surveyor

West Chester, OH · On-site

$22.50 - $55/hr

Operating Trimble GPS equipment, robotic total stations, data collectors, and related survey technology * Collecting and documenting accurate field data * Processing survey data using Trimble ...

The Survey Instrument Operator is primarily responsible for assisting the Party Chief in completion of daily tasks including Boundary Surveys, TOPO Surveys and Construction staking.Essential Duties ...

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Operating across all 50 states, our Registered Professional Land Surveyors (RPLS) bring extensive land survey expertise, along with an unwavering commitment to quality. We have cultivated long ...

The Survey Instrument Operator is primarily responsible for assisting the Party Chief in completion of daily tasks including Boundary Surveys, TOPO Surveys and Construction staking. Essential Duties ...

The Survey Instrument Operator is primarily responsible for assisting the Party Chief in completion of daily tasks including Boundary Surveys, TOPO Surveys and Construction staking. Essential Duties ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Survey Operator information

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$14

$31

$48

How much do survey operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a survey operator?

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 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 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.

More about Survey Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Survey Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,602 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Survey Crew Chief

CESO, Inc.

Columbus, OH • On-site

$60K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you seeking purpose, challenge, and talented colleagues? We develop leaders and empower our associates to use their skills and talents to positively impact the world through service - to our coworkers, clients, and communities. We subscribe to the mission of "empowering our people to impact communities by bringing clients' visions to life," so if this speaks to you, let's connect!
 
At CESO, a Crew Chief I participates independently or with the assistance of a Field Survey Technician (I and II) to complete surveying services. Assists or directs survey crews in performance of land surveys, data collection and construction staking.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Directs/assists daily duties of survey crew as required. 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 equipment such as total stations, GPS equipment, data collectors, automatic levels, and scanners.
  • Performs research of previous survey evidence, maps, deeds, physical evidence, and other records to obtain data needed for surveys including courthouse and utility information.
  • Complete construction surveys for area roads, bridges, buildings, subdivisions, and other properties.
  • Complete boundary and topographic surveys that establish rights-of-way on area roads and properties.
  • Read maps, plans, and stake-out sheets to reproduce a physical survey.
  • Keep survey notes and decide on survey techniques to be used on specific projects.
  • Responsible for ensuring surveys are correct and accurate.
  • Records data electronically and handwritten according to the CESO Land Surveying Manual.
  • Proficient in use of data collector to perform field to finish operations.
  • Understanding of basic coordinate geometry functions.
  • Basic understanding of boundary resolution, procedures and processes.
  • Basic knowledge of construction layout for utilities, roads bridges and buildings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements
  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED) is required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of field survey related experience/training is required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • OSHA 10 Hour Construction and/or Safe Land Certification preferred, or to be obtained upon hire.
  • First Aid & CPR certification is preferred.
  • NSPS CST Level 3 is preferred.
  • Computer skills necessary to enter daily timesheet data and use Microsoft Outlook for email correspondence.
  • Proficient in navigating Windows or Android operating systems is required.
  • Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, AutoCAD, Civil 3D is preferred.
  • Working knowledge of TBC and Access is preferred.
  • Local travel as assigned.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • The characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • An employee must have the ability to reach with hands and arms; to use hands for drawing, typing, or handling tools and materials. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close and distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to varying work environments including extreme heat or cold, adverse weather conditions, uneven terrain, and moving construction vehicles while onsite. An employee may be exposed to poisonous and/or thorny vegetation, snakes and stinging insects.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in a work environment that has a noise level that varies between moderate to loud. 
  • Ability to travel as needed, which may include occasional overnight stays.  Must be available to work overtime as required. Must be able to access various project locations, including sites with limited ADA accommodations.
Benefits and Perks
  • Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Paid Time Off - Credited to You 100% Upfront
  • 401K with a Company Match
  • Rewards and Recognition Program
  • Training and Development to Foster Professional Growth
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical / Dental / Vision Coverage
  • Welcome Box
  • Casual Dress Code
  • Reimbursement for Professional Licenses
  • Paid Time Off for Community Team Service Events
  • Voluntary or Supplemental Short-Term / Long-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Company Paid Bonding and Recovery
  • Employee Events such as Lunches and Outings to Foster a Positive Work Environment
$60,997 - $104,549 a year
CESO Compensation Transparency:
The pay band shown reflects the minimum and maximum base salary for this position at CESO. Actual pay is 
determined by several factors, including location, experience, education, skills, and internal equity. Our pay 
structures are benchmarked against industry and market data to stay competitive. Each offer is based on a full review 
of a candidate's background, qualifications, and fit for the role.

Below are the typical new hire pay ranges for this position based on location:
Columbus, OH: $64,386 - $76,468
CESO is a principle-centered organization that aligns with strong service values, integrity, and authenticity.  We develop and inspire through training and coaching on the job.  At CESO, we believe that work should be more rewarding than just a paycheck.  In addition to a comprehensive benefit and compensation program, we create memories and friendships through our employee and service events.
 
CESO, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This organization participates in E-Verify and is a drug-free workplace. Criminal background checks and drug/alcohol checks are required.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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