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Total Station Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... station. Properly documents all responses for the alarm in the alarm monitoring software. Verifies ... Total Compensation Package: * Competitive Wages & Paid Time Off * Stock Purchase Plan & 401k with ...

Field Technician

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

Positions and holds vertical rods or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations * Lay out and recovers stakes, marks, and other monumentation

Field Technician

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Positions and holds vertical rods or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations * Lay out and recovers stakes, marks, and other monumentation

Field Technician

West Monroe, LA

$19 - $26/hr

Positions and holds vertical rods or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations * Lay out and recovers stakes, marks, and other monumentation

Positions and holds vertical rods or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations * Lay out and recovers stakes, marks, and other monumentation

Field Technician

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

Positions and holds vertical rods or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations * Lay out and recovers stakes, marks, and other monumentation

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Total Station Operator information

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How much do total station operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for total station operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Total Station Operator, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, mathematics, and experience with field data collection, typically supported by a diploma or certificate in surveying or a related field. Familiarity with total station equipment, GPS systems, and computer-aided design (CAD) software is essential, along with knowledge of data processing tools. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills make an operator stand out on-site. These skills ensure accurate measurements, efficient workflow, and reliable data critical for successful construction and engineering projects.

What are Total Station Operators?

Total Station Operators are professionals who use electronic/optical surveying instruments called total stations to measure and record distances, angles, and elevations at construction sites or land surveying projects. Their work is essential for creating accurate site maps, setting out building locations, and ensuring projects are built according to design specifications. They interpret technical drawings, operate the total station equipment, and often collaborate closely with engineers and surveyors. Precision, attention to detail, and technical skills are critical for this role.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Total Station Operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive, medical, or specialized professional roles. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or leadership positions, and salaries above $500,000 are rare outside of top executive or specialized medical fields.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

Among surveyors, boundary surveyors and geospatial surveyors with specialized skills and certifications tend to earn the highest salaries. Total Station Operators, as a specific role, generally earn less than licensed surveyors with advanced expertise and experience in complex projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by Total Station Operators on construction sites?

Total Station Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining equipment accuracy, and ensuring clear communication with surveyors, engineers, and construction crews. Adjusting to rapidly changing site conditions and interpreting project plans precisely are also common aspects of the role. Additionally, operators need to be vigilant about safety protocols and data integrity, as small errors can significantly impact project outcomes.

What is a total station operator?

A total station operator is a construction or surveying professional who uses a total station, a device combining electronic distance measurement and angular measurement, to collect precise location data for mapping, construction layout, and land surveying projects. They are responsible for setting up the equipment, recording measurements, and ensuring data accuracy, often requiring knowledge of surveying principles and certification in the field.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

A Total Station Operator typically does not earn $150,000 annually, as this role usually has a median salary below that figure. High-paying media jobs generally include executive roles such as media directors, producers, or senior editors, which require extensive experience and specialized skills. For high salaries, professionals often need advanced education, certifications, and leadership responsibilities in media companies.

What is the difference between Total Station Operator vs Land Surveyor?

AspectTotal Station OperatorLand Surveyor
CredentialsTypically requires a certification or diploma in surveying technologyRequires a degree in surveying, geomatics, or related field, often with licensing
Work EnvironmentWorks on-site with equipment, often outdoors at construction or survey sitesWorks both in the field and office, overseeing survey projects and data analysis
Industry UsageCommonly employed in construction, engineering, and surveying firmsEmployed in land development, civil engineering, and government agencies

While both roles involve surveying equipment, the Total Station Operator primarily handles data collection using total stations, whereas the Land Surveyor oversees entire survey projects, including planning, data analysis, and legal boundary determination.

More about Total Station Operator jobs
What states have the most Total Station Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Total Station Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Total Station Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Total Station Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Total Station Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,316 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Total Station Operator

Total Station Operator

Intermountain Electric Inc

Aurora, CO โ€ข On-site

$26.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

About Us
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.
About this Role
Intermountain Electric, Inc. (IME) is celebrating 80 years of powering progress across Colorado. Our office teams help deliver 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!
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 operating Robotic Total Station equipment to help ensure accurate installation of electrical systems in alignment with project plans.
What You'll Do
Key Responsibilities
Field Layout & Support
  • Assist with layout and surveying activities using Robotic Total Station equipment
  • Transfer layout points from models and drawings to the job site with accuracy and attention to detail
  • Support field teams in verifying installations align with project plans and specifications
  • Assist with basic QA/QC checks to help ensure clean, precise, and high-quality work

Field Technology Operation
  • Operate and help maintain field technology equipment, including Robotic Total Stations
  • Assist with collecting and organizing field data to support project accuracy
  • Support the use of emerging technologies such as scanning tools, 360ยฐ cameras, or similar equipment
  • Learn and apply new tools and processes that improve efficiency and simplify work in the field

BIM/VDC Support
  • Work closely with BIM/VDC team members and field crews to understand layout requirements
  • Assist with interpreting models and drawings using tools like Navisworks or similar software
  • Communicate clearly with team members to ensure alignment between the model and field installation
  • Build strong working relationships through reliable follow-through and collaboration

Equipment & Team Support
  • Assist with setup, transport, and care of field technology equipment
  • Follow all company safety procedures-helping take care of yourself and your team
  • Communicate openly, ask questions, and actively listen to learn from experienced team members
  • Contribute to a positive team environment where people enjoy working together

Additional duties as assigned
What You'll Bring
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in doing quality work
  • Willingness to learn and take ownership of responsibilities
  • Curiosity and interest in improving processes and tools
  • Ability to work safely and look out for others
  • Clear communication and teamwork skills
  • Positive attitude that contributes to team culture

Demonstrated Accomplishments
  • Exposure to construction, layout, or surveying environments
  • Familiarity with industry tools such as AutoCAD, Navisworks, or Bluebeam
  • Demonstrated interest in electrical construction or construction technology
  • Hands-on experience working with tools, equipment, or in technical settings

Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Additional coursework or training in construction, engineering, or a related field is a plus
  • Previous experience in construction, layout, or technology is preferred

What You'll Get
Working Conditions:
The majority of the time you will work in a typical office environment. Occasionally, you may travel to a construction job site. 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: $26.15 - $35.38
*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.
Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $26.15/Hr. - USD $35.38/Hr. depending on experience and qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
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.