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Total Station Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Big Sky Service

Construction Surveyor

Holly, MI · On-site

The ideal hire will show high proficiency in reading blueprints and experience operating a total station and/or other equipment to layout concrete footings, foundations, and walls. This person must ...

Actalent

Survey Technician

Macomb, MI

$20 - $25/hr

You will primarily work outdoors as part of a field crew, operating GPS units, total stations, and data collectors in a variety of terrains and weather conditions. The role involves regular lifting ...

Thalle Construction Company

The Surveyor will be responsible for utilizing total station and GPS equipment and computer ... Experience must show current proficiency operating a robotic tool station, GPS, and level.

Republic Services

Operator

Stevensville, MI

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

The Operator operates machines and/or equipment at a recyclery, landfill, or transfer station ... In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion.

Republic Services

Operator

Stevensville, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

The Operator operates machines and/or equipment at a recyclery, landfill, or transfer station ... In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion.

RR Donnelley

Bindery Operator 1

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $17.18/hr

May set up automatic bindery machines containing multiple functions and station capabilities (power ... In addition to base salary, depending on the role, the total compensation package may also include ...

RR Donnelley

Bindery Operator 1

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $17.18/hr

May set up automatic bindery machines containing multiple functions and station capabilities (power ... In addition to base salary, depending on the role, the total compensation package may also include ...

Westrock

Folder/Gluer Operator

Lansing, MI · On-site

... pack station, and inspection systems. * Operate folder/gluer equipment in accordance with customer specifications and current standard operating procedures. * Monitor production to ensure total ...

Smurfit Westrock

Folder/Gluer Operator

Lansing, MI · On-site

... pack station, and inspection systems. * Operate folder/gluer equipment in accordance with customer specifications and current standard operating procedures. * Monitor production to ensure total ...

Grand Rapids

Millwright-Howmet

Walker, MI · On-site

$24.25 - $31.75/hr

Robotic total (Station) * Precision measuring equipment (ID/OD micrometers, calipers, dial ... Discuss proper LHE operating practices as they related to standard and critical load handling ...

Lee Contracting, Inc

Millwright-Howmet

Walker, MI · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Robotic total (Station) * Precision measuring equipment (ID/OD micrometers, calipers, dial ... Discuss proper LHE operating practices as they related to standard and critical load handling ...

New

Grand Rapids

Millwright-Howmet

Walker, MI · On-site

$24.25 - $31.75/hr

Robotic total (Station) * Precision measuring equipment (ID/OD micrometers, calipers, dial ... Discuss proper LHE operating practices as they related to standard and critical load handling ...

Republic Services

Forklift Operator - MRF

Southfield, MI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion ... stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills. Although we operate ...

Republic Services

Forklift Operator - MRF

Southfield, MI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion ... stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills. Although we operate ...

Republic Services

Forklift Operator - MRF

Southfield, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion ... stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills. Although we operate ...

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All JobsTotal Station Operator JobsTotal Station Operator Jobs in Michigan

Total Station Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do total station operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for total station operator in Michigan is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a total station operator?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a total station operator?

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Total Station Operator jobs in Michigan?

For Total Station Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Total Station Operator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Total Station Operator jobs in Michigan are:

Total Station Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Total Station Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,883 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

James E Fulton & Sons

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$25 - $36/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavation & Utilities)


Company Overview

James E Fulton & Sons, Inc. is a family-owned excavating and trucking contractor serving Southwest Michigan. For decades, we've built our reputation on quality work, outstanding service, and a committed team. Around Kalamazoo, people know our yellow-and-white fleetequipment that's visible, clean, and well-maintained.

We focus on excavation, site work, and underground utilities within roughly 50 miles of Kalamazoo, MI. Our crews take pride in turning out work we're proud to drive by years later.


The Opportunity

This role is for a well-rounded Heavy Equipment Operator who wants to do more than just sit in the cab. You'll run excavators, dozers, loaders, and skid steers on excavation and utility projects, and you'll also jump in with the crew when needed to keep the job moving.

If you take pride in smooth grades, safe trenches, and a clean machineand you like the idea of steady local work with a tight-knit crewthis is a chance to build long-term with a respected contractor.


What You'll Do
  • Operate excavators, dozers, loaders, skid steers, and other heavy equipment safely and efficiently on excavation and underground utility projects.
  • Handle grading, trenching, backfill, and compaction work to meet plans, stakes, and foreman directions.
  • Assist with underground utility installation, including pipe work, hydrants, and related structures as needed.
  • Jump in with labor tasks when the crew needs handspipe support, hydrant assembly, site cleanup, and general jobsite support.
  • Perform daily inspections, basic maintenance, and cleaning so equipment stays safe, reliable, and job-ready.
What Success Looks Like
  • Within the first 36 months, you're confidently running multiple machines on our typical excavation and utility jobs with minimal supervision.
  • Jobs are completed on grade, on schedule, and without rework due to equipment operation or communication issues.
  • Foremen and crew know they can count on you to step in wherever neededoperating iron, handling tools, or helping with utility installation.
  • Your equipment passes inspections, stays clean and organized, and you consistently document time and basic job information using our mobile app.
What We're Looking For
  • 5+ years of heavy equipment operating experience in excavation, site work, or utilities, with the ability to run excavators, dozers, loaders, and skid steers.
  • Experience with grading and underground utilities, plus ability to read/interpret grade stakes and basic plans; GPS/total station experience or willingness to learn.
  • Valid driver's license, dependable attendance, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather and meet the physical demands of the job.
  • Team-first, safety-focused mindsethonest, reliable, and willing to help wherever the job and crew need you.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Pay: $25 to $36 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
  • Health insurance.
  • 401(k).
  • Full-time, W-2 employment with day shift, job-based start/end times, plus overtime and occasional weekends (especially during snow or emergency work).
How to Apply

If this sounds like the kind of work and crew you'd be proud to be part of, apply with your resume or a brief summary of your experience operating excavation and utility equipment. Qualified candidates will be contacted to discuss next steps.