What Is an Instrument Operator and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As a survey instrument operator, your duties are to assist a surveying or construction crew in assessing the topography and geography of a building site or parcel of land. As the instrument operator, your main responsibilities are to calibrate and operate a variety of specialized surveying equipment, such as a theodolite, transit and leveling devices, and GPS tools. You measure the boundary of the area as well as other features, taking notes as you survey. You collect data and give it to the builders, contractors, or survey leaders.

To become an instrument operator, you need a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Advanced training or qualifications with electronic and traditional survey equipment and knowledge on how to use global positioning tools are also essential for the job. Most instrument operators have one to two years of job experience under a more senior surveyor or operator before they work independently or with minimal supervision. You need strong technical skills and good verbal and written communication skills as well.