1

Total Station Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Total Station Operator works closely with project field leadership to ensure installations are positioned accurately and efficiently--reflecting our commitment to craftsmanship, safety, and ...

Total Station Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

$34 - $46/hr

This position uses the Trimble Total Station equipment to locate points on a job site that will be used to construct projects accurately. Compensation: $34.00 to $46.00 Depending on Experience ...

Position Summary The Total Station Operator will support the BIM/VDC and Field Support Teams by assisting with layout and field technology applications on construction sites. This role focuses on ...

The Total Station Technician supports the electrical construction team by providing accurate, model-based layout and verification in the field. This role ensures all electrical systems, racks ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Total Station information

See salary details

$9

$17

$28

How much do total station jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for total station in the United States is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Total Station job?

A Total Station job involves using a total station, a precision surveying instrument, to measure angles, distances, and coordinates for mapping, construction, and land surveying. Professionals in this role gather and analyze data to create accurate site plans and ensure proper project execution. Responsibilities may include setting up the equipment, taking precise measurements, and interpreting data for engineering and construction projects. Strong mathematical, technical, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

Is there a high demand for quantity surveyors?

Total station operators and surveyors are in steady demand in the construction and civil engineering sectors, especially for projects requiring precise land and construction measurements. Skills in using total stations, GPS, and CAD software enhance employability, and demand tends to increase with infrastructure development and urban expansion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Total Station position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Total Station Operator, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, precise measurement techniques, and spatial data collection, typically supported by relevant technical training or certification. Proficiency in operating total station equipment, CAD software, and GPS mapping systems is essential for accurate data gathering. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the accuracy and reliability of survey data, which are vital for construction, engineering, and mapping projects.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

Experienced land surveyors who specialize in high-demand areas such as construction, engineering, or geospatial data tend to earn the highest salaries. Senior surveyors with advanced certifications and extensive field experience typically make more than entry-level professionals, especially when working on large projects or in urban environments.

What is the highest salary for a land surveyor?

The highest salaries for land surveyors can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for experienced professionals in senior roles or those with specialized skills such as GIS or advanced surveying technology. Factors influencing top salaries include location, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Total Station Operator?

A Total Station Operator is responsible for setting up and operating total station equipment to conduct land surveys, collect topographical data, and mark reference points for construction projects. Their daily tasks often include interpreting project plans, recording measurements, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with surveyors, engineers, and construction teams. Operators may also process and transfer data into mapping or CAD software, ensuring accuracy and completeness. This role is usually field-based, with work outdoors in various weather conditions, and often requires travel to different project sites.

How to work with a total station?

A total station is a surveying instrument used by surveyors and civil engineers to measure angles and distances accurately. To work with it, you set up the device on a stable tripod, calibrate it, and then use its electronic theodolite and distance measurement features to collect data, often requiring knowledge of coordinate systems and data processing software. Proper training and certification are recommended for effective operation in field environments.
More about Total Station jobs
What states have the most Total Station jobs? States with the most job openings for Total Station jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Total Station jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Total Station jobs are:
Infographic showing various Total Station job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,489 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Total Station Operator

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 78 rated construction


Job description

Intermountain Electric (IME) brings decades of experience as a trusted leader in electrical contracting. Founded in 1946, we began as a small company in Denver, CO, and have since grown to be part of the largest specialty contractor in North America. Today, we work with owners and contractors nationwide, delivering complex construction solutions across various industries, including aviation, mission critical, entertainment, and healthcare.
At IME, our people are our most valuable asset. We are committed to fostering a culture that prioritizes safety, quality, and professional growth. Joining IME is more than just finding a job—it's about building a career with opportunities to advance and make an organizational impact. Power your future with IME and be a part of a team that drives success in every project.


For 80 years, Intermountain Electric, Inc. (IME) has been a trusted partner on the front lines of some of the most essential electrical projects, delivering safe, smart, and reliable electrical solutions through our people and partnerships, the IME Way.

Through strategic planning, collaboration, and technical excellence, and guided by our values of Integrity, Safety, Ingenuity, Relationships, Craftsmanship, and Spark, we empower our professionals to innovate, support our field teams, and strengthen the partnerships that move our work forward.

Join a team where your expertise fuels the systems that keep communities running!

If you’re driven by precision, problemsolving, and doing work you’re proud of, IME is looking for skilled layout professionals to support our construction teams using Robotic Total Station technology to translate digital plans and BIM models into accurate field installation points.

This position focuses primarily on construction layout and field verification using Robotic Total Station and GNSS devices. The Total Station Operator works closely with project field leadership to ensure installations are positioned accurately and efficiently—reflecting our commitment to craftsmanship, safety, and strong working relationships.


Key Responsibilities

Robotic Total Station Operation

  • Set up, calibrate, and operate Robotic Total Stations and GNSS on active construction projects with an emphasis on precision and integrity.
  • Establish and maintain site control points, benchmarks, and reference grids.
  • Perform precise layout for:
    • Electrical systems
    • Equipment pads
    • Anchors and embeds
    • Sleeves and penetrations
    • Underground utilities
    • Structural reference points
  • Import layout points from digital models, CAD drawings, or point files.
  • Verify installation locations and conduct as-built layout checks.
  • Adjust and re-stake layout based on updated drawings or field conditions, applying ingenuity when adapting to dynamic field environments.

 

Field Coordination and QA/QC

  • Work directly with foremen, superintendents, and installation crews to support layout needs while fostering clear, trust-based communication.
  • Verify installations meet design intent and project tolerances.
  • Perform layout verification prior to major installations to prevent conflicts.
  • Document layout tasks and maintain daily layout reports.
  • Track revisions and update layout points when project models change.

 

Equipment and Data Management

  • Maintain Robotic Total Station equipment including instruments, prisms, tripods, and batteries, demonstrating pride and care in craftsmanship.
  • Ensure proper calibration and functionality of layout equipment.
  • Manage layout files and coordinate data for field use.
  • Assist with training field teams on basic RTS layout workflows when needed, supporting collaborative learning and strong relationships.
  • Potential to utilize field technologies including LiDAR cameras, 360° cameras, drones, and Mixed Reality (MR) tools to capture site conditions, support layout verification, and improve construction documentation and coordination—an opportunity to bring curiosity, ingenuity, and spark to the work.

Additional duties as assigned.


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Strong ability to read construction drawings and coordinate plans.
  • High attention to precision and spatial accuracy.
  • Understanding of construction layout methods and coordinate systems.
  • Ability to work independently in a fielddriven construction environment with integrity and accountability.
  • Strong communication skills to coordinate with field crews and project teams.
  • Commitment to maintaining safe work practices and following jobsite safety requirements.
  • Familiarity with construction field technologies such as LiDAR cameras, 360° cameras, drones, and Mixed Reality (MR) solutions a plus.

 

Demonstrated Accomplishments in the Following Areas

  • Experience operating Robotic Total Stations and GNSS devices for construction layout.
  • Proven ability to perform accurate layout on commercial or industrial projects.
  • Experience importing and staking digital point files.
  • Ability to troubleshoot layout issues in the field with ingenuity and a solutionsfocused mindset.
  • Familiarity with construction sequencing and installation processes.

 

Education & Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Demonstrated experience in construction layout, surveying, or Robotic Total Station operation.
  • Experience with Robotic Total Station platforms such as Trimble RTS Series, Leica TS Series, or Topcon GT Series strongly preferred.
  • Background in electrical, mechanical, or structural construction layout preferred.
  • BIM or CAD experience is beneficial but not required.
  • Must be able to obtain necessary credentials for job sites including but not limited to the Denver Airport and Data Centers.

 

Physical Requirements

  • Lift and carry 40+ pounds of layout equipment.
  • Walk uneven terrain and active construction sites.
  • Access mechanical rooms, trenches, and elevated work areas.
  • Stand for extended periods while performing layout tasks.

Working Conditions:  You will work in a typical office environment and on construction job sites. When on construction job sites you will encounter typical construction conditions including extreme temperatures, noise, dust, mud debris, welding, leading edge, trenching, and shoring, sometimes in a confined space.  You may be required to visit multiple locations during any one day.

Benefits Overview:  IME provides an industry-leading comprehensive benefits package.  Full-time employees are eligible to choose from a variety of healthcare coverage options, which become effective the first of the month after hire.  In addition, employees are offered a substantial amount of PTO and are immediately eligible to make contributions to a generously matched and fully vested 401k. 

Salary Range:  $64,000 - $97,750

 *Final salary and rates are based on education, experience, skills relevant to the role, and internal equity.*

 

Established in 1946, IME is part of Quanta Services, the largest specialty contractor in North America. We base our business model on always doing the right thing and pride ourselves in finding the best processes and practices in everything we do. As an electrical contractor, we install and service the power and lighting to commercial and industrial buildings in the Western US. 

The statements included in this job description are not intended to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned as required.

Intermountain Electric, Inc. (IME) is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and to creating an environment free of discrimination and harassment.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

IME will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees who are qualified for a job so that they may perform the essential duties of the position. 

IME strives to provide a safe work environment for its employees. Under applicable laws and regulations, IME conducts background checks on all final candidates.

 

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.


The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $64,000.00/Yr. - USD $97,750.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.


What Quanta Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom