ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Survey Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

Job Title Survey Instrument Operator Job Type Full-time Location Houma - Houma, LA 70363 US (Primary) Category Survey Education Vocational Instrument Operator T. Baker Smith, LLC is seeking a Land ...

T Baker Smith

Survey Instrument Operator

Lafayette, LA · On-site

Job Title Survey Instrument Operator Job Type Full-time Location Lafayette - Lafayette, LA 70503 US (Primary) Category Associate Education High School Instrument Operator T. Baker Smith, LLC is ...

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

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.

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSurvey Operator Jobs

Survey Operator information

See salary details

$14

$31

$48

How much do survey operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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.

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
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
Infographic showing various Survey Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 82% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $64,602 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Survey Instrument Operator

Survey Instrument Operator

KCI Technologies Inc.

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

KCI Technologies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 350 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

Join us as we Rise to the Challenge

At KCI, we're building an enduring community that provides unparalleled value to our employee-owners. We make our mark designing and delivering our world-class solutions, so we invest deeply in supporting and developing our team. We reward integrity and commitment, and when we do well, you do well. Our employee's have the freedom to innovate, unlimited growth, a voice that matters, a lifestyle that works, and skin in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ourselves, each other, and the world around us. 

 

THE COMPANY

KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and construction firm serving clients throughout the United States. KCI is recognized as an industry leader, employing cutting-edge technologies, management practices and strategic growth initiatives. Employee ownership fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encourages technical expertise, and shapes strategic planning.

KCI is currently ranked #50 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 design firms in the nation.

KCI BENEFITS INFORMATION

We offer a competitive compensation package, family friendly benefits, a collaborative working environment, and the training, mentoring and resources you need to advance in your career.

We understand that you have choices, and we know that together we will make a great team!

KCI is committed to building a diverse and inclusive staff, and we encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities to apply.

KCI Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

FEMALES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THIS FIELD BASED POSITION.

Duties, Responsibilities & Other

Our Survey Practice in Raleigh North Carolina is looking for an Instrument Operator to join our team! This person will work with our team of Land Surveyors to support our projects local to the area. This is a field based position that requires regular overnight travel. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Instrument Operator is responsible for performing technical tasks in the field with a high degree of accuracy and professionalism. This role involves working closely with team members, clients, and supervisors to ensure that all project requirements are met in accordance with industry standards, safety regulations, and KCI policies. The Instrument Operator will actively participate in cross-training opportunities to build a stronger team, communicate workflow needs, and proactively work to resolve problems in the field.

  • Experience: experience on a Survey field crew preforming Utility surveys, ALTA surveys, boundary, topographic, construction layout and telecom surveys. 
  • Skills: proficient with Trimble survey equipment and other basic survey field equipment.
  • Duties: Responsible for using survey equipment to preform ALTA surveys, boundary surveys, topographic surveys, utility surveys, construction layout, and telecommunication surveys as directed by field crew leader.
  • Ability to perform some equipment maintenance tasks a plus.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds, walk for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions and climates, willing to work evenings/weekends when required, willing to travel for overnight and extended stay projects as required.

* Essential Duties and Responsibilities are the basic job functions that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Qualifications

Education and/or Skills Required:

  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience
  • Highschool Diploma/GED

Certificates, licenses, and/or Registrations Required:

  • Valid Driver's License
  • Ability to maintain required certifications.

Pre-employment drug screening is a condition of employment. Background and motor vehicle checks may be required based upon position.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What KCI Technologies employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply