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Total Station Operator 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

... Total Station operator inputs that information into the handheld equipment and uses that to shoot the points in the field • Schedule and manage time to properly support projects • Serve jobsite ...

... Total Station operator inputs that information into the handheld equipment and uses that to shoot the points in the field • Schedule and manage time to properly support projects • Serve jobsite ...

... 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 ...

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How much do total station operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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 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 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.

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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:
Total Station Operator

Total Station Operator

Quanta Services

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th 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.


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