ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Surveying Machine Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manatt's

Machine Control Specialist

Ankeny, IA

This shall include setting up projects, performing some survey tasks, trouble shooting, training and eventually 3D model building. Manatt's machine control capabilities include dozers, motor graders ...

Manatt's

Machine Control Specialist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

This shall include setting up projects, performing some survey tasks, trouble shooting, training and eventually 3D model building. Manatt's machine control capabilities include dozers, motor graders ...

Manatt's

Machine Control Specialist Trainee

Ankeny, IA · On-site

This shall include setting up projects, performing survey tasks, trouble shooting, and potentially 3D model building. Manatt's machine control capabilities include dozers, motor graders, milling ...

Manatt's

Machine Control Specialist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

This shall include setting up projects, performing some survey tasks, trouble shooting, training and eventually 3D model building. Manatt's machine control capabilities include dozers, motor graders ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSurveying Machine Control Jobs

Surveying Machine Control information

See salary details

$13

$26

$48

How much do surveying machine control jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveying machine control in the United States is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Surveying Machine Control, and why are they important?

To succeed in Surveying Machine Control, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, construction processes, and spatial data analysis, often supported by a degree in surveying, civil engineering, or related fields. Proficiency with GPS/GNSS systems, machine control software (such as Trimble or Topcon), and CAD tools is typically required, along with relevant certifications like CST or manufacturer-specific training. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals collaborate with construction teams and adapt to job site challenges. These abilities are crucial to ensure the accuracy, efficiency, and safety of machine-guided construction projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Surveying Machine Control, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Surveying Machine Control often encounter challenges such as equipment calibration issues, rapidly changing site conditions, and the need to integrate data from various sources. Staying updated with the latest machine control software and hardware is crucial, as is maintaining meticulous records of site data. Effective communication with field crews, engineers, and project managers helps ensure that machine control systems are used efficiently and any discrepancies are quickly resolved. Ongoing training and collaboration foster a smoother workflow and help address technical challenges as they arise.

What is surveying machine control?

Surveying machine control refers to the use of advanced technology, such as GPS, GNSS, lasers, and sensors, to guide construction equipment and ensure precise positioning and grading. It automates the process of measuring and mapping construction sites, helping operators achieve accurate results with less manual input. This technology increases efficiency, reduces costly errors, and improves safety on job sites. Surveying machine control is widely used in civil engineering, road construction, and large-scale earthworks projects.

What is the difference between Surveying Machine Control vs Surveying Technician?

AspectSurveying Machine ControlSurveying Technician
CredentialsTypically requires GPS, GIS, or surveying software certificationsRequires surveying licenses or certifications, often with field experience
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery and software on construction sites or mining operationsWorks in the field collecting data or in offices analyzing survey data
Industry UsageUsed in construction, mining, and large-scale infrastructure projectsUsed across construction, land development, and civil engineering projects

Surveying Machine Control specialists focus on operating and managing machinery with integrated GPS and software systems to improve construction accuracy. Surveying Technicians gather field data and perform measurements. While both roles require surveying knowledge, Machine Control roles emphasize machinery operation and software, whereas Technicians focus on data collection and analysis.

Infographic showing various Surveying Machine Control job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,803 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Survey & Machine Control Technician

Survey & Machine Control Technician

Flynn Brothers Contracting, Inc.

Louisville, KY • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Application Instructions
Flynn Brothers Contracting is seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled Survey & Machine Control Technician to support site development and heavy civil construction projects. This position is responsible for building and maintaining 3D models, preparing machine control files, processing drone data, and producing accurate staking and takeoff information to ensure field operations run efficiently and accurately.
This role plays a critical part in project startup, daily model revisions, and overall job site accuracy.
Position Description
Key Responsibilities
3D Modeling & Site Preparation
  • Develop complete 3D models of project sites within disturbance limits.
  • Identify and anticipate potential design plan conflicts or topographic tie-in issues.
  • Implement daily revisions and additions to site models.
  • Re-run updated models through Trimble and Topcon platforms to maintain accuracy.

Machine Control & Data Management
  • Prepare Trimble and Topcon machine control files.
  • Input calibrations into Topcon 3D Office.
  • Coordinate control files and miscellaneous setup files for project startup.
  • Double-check and prepare curb 2D and 3D linework for stringless curb machines.

Staking & Calculations
  • Calculate sanitary and storm 3D linework.
  • Produce .CSV staking files for all underground structures.
  • Calculate wall leveling pads and generate corresponding staking files.
  • Ensure all layout files are field-ready and accurate.

Drone & Existing Surface Processing
  • Insert and process drone flights into Propeller.
  • Clean and refine drone data to produce accurate existing surface models.
  • Support earthwork validation and site verification using drone data.

Takeoffs & Reporting
  • Export files for Carlson or Agtek takeoffs as needed.
  • Produce miscellaneous quantity takeoffs for project progress tracking.
  • Perform monthly asphalt plant stockpile inventory calculations.

Position Requirements
Required Skills & Experience
  • Experience in heavy civil/site development construction.
  • Strong understanding of grading, utilities, and earthwork.
  • Experience preparing and managing machine control files.
  • Drone data processing experience preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications.
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

Software Proficiency Required
  • Carlson/CAD
  • Agtek
  • Trimble Business Center
  • Trimble Earthworks
  • Topcon 3D Office
  • Propeller

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience in survey office or construction modeling role.
  • Familiarity with stringless curb systems.
  • Knowledge of earthwork balancing and grading optimization.
  • Drone flight experience (Part 107 certification preferred but not required).

Benefits
  • Health Insurance (PPO Plan and HSA Plan)
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Company Provided ESOP (Employee-Owned Stock Plan)
  • 401k Option
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • Weekly Pay by Direct Deposit
  • Supplemental Benefits
  • Company Provided Life Insurance for employee and family
  • Paid Time Off

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer
EOE - M/F/Disabled/Veteran
Women and Minorities encouraged to apply
Equal Opportunity Employer
Flynn Brothers Contracting, Inc. and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers.

Apply