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Total Station Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Field Technician

Oak Brook, 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

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

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 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

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

Instrument Operator

Bryan, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Instrument Operator operates and maintains all survey equipment, work under the direction of ... Static GPS, RTK, GPS, conventional total station, data collectors, levels, pipeline locator and ...

Instrument Operator

Bryan, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Instrument Operator operates and maintains all survey equipment, work under the direction of ... Static GPS, RTK, GPS, conventional total station, data collectors, levels, pipeline locator and ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Field Lead

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Field Lead

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to measure angles, distances, and elevations. * Lays out grids and/or determines horizontal and vertical ...

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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.
Field Technician

Field Technician

HBK Engineering, LLC

Oak Brook, IL โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

About Us

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta's focus on the utility industry and HBK's focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.

About this Role

HBK Engineering is seeking a Field Technician responsible for performing surveying duties, while work directly with Field Leads, Safety Managers and Project Managers to meet the needs of HBK's field services.ย Primary Office Location: Geneva, IL

What You'll Do
  • Conducts surveys to ascertain the locations of natural features and man-made structures on the surface and underground
  • Operates surveying instruments such as Total Station and GPS survey equipment
  • Records survey measurements and descriptive data using notes, drawings, and sketches
  • Searches for property corners and survey monuments
  • 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
  • Performs surveys of existing utility and/or street light poles utilizing total station, rangefinders, di-electric height sticks, target poles and/or GPS survey equipment
  • Take detailed field notes and photographs
  • Work directly with survey crew lead to ensure proper and efficient use of survey equipment
What You'll Bring

Minimum Qualificationsย 

  • One (1) year of OSP construction, survey, or engineering experience in aerial or underground environment is required
  • Perform topographic surveys, aerial utility surveys, and construction staking
  • Operate a variety of survey equipment, including total stations and GPS
  • High school diploma or GED certificate

Essential Skills

  • Self-motivated, proactive with good interpersonal and effective communication skills
  • Valid driver's license (CDL not required)

Valued but not Required Skills and Experience

  • Experience with infrastructure, utility, and/or construction projects
  • Knowledge of total station survey equipment and GPS survey equipment
  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel
  • Knowledge of AutoCAD
  • Construction experience
  • Formal survey training preferred but not required.
  • Ability to Learn and understand HBK survey methods and standards

Tools and Equipment Used

  • Trimble Robotic total station
  • Tripod
  • Motor vehicle
  • Mobile Phone
  • Camera
  • Trimble GPS R12i
  • Measuring wheel
  • Metal detectors

Physical Requirements

  • Physically capable of moving about on construction work sites, public streets, and parkway
  • Capable of lifting to 40lbs
  • Ability to walk and stand outdoors for extended periods of time
  • Ability to sit, kneel, and squat on a daily basis - minimal frequency of kneeling and squatting
  • Hand-eye coordination necessary to operate surveying equipment and measurements

Work Environment

  • Work safely outside in all weather conditions year-round
  • Frequently work in excavations areas and roadways
  • Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, and vibration
  • The noise level in the work environment is occasionally moderate to loud
  • May be required to work nights or weekends
  • May be required to travel
What You'll Get

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.

Compensation RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is USD $20.00/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.

Employment Type: OTHER