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Instrument Operator (Surveying)

Actalent
Raleigh, NC Contractor
POSTED ON 5/6/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/5/2026

Instrument Operator / Project Surveyor

About the Role

Step into a dynamic position where your surveying expertise directly shapes land development, environmental projects, infrastructure, and government work across the Triangle region. As an Instrument Operator / Project Surveyor, you’ll play a key role in delivering high‑quality surveying and mapping services while working closely with an experienced Survey Manager and multidisciplinary project teams.

This role is ideal for a motivated survey professional who wants hands‑on field experience, meaningful project responsibility, and a clear path toward long‑term professional licensure. You’ll gain exposure to multiple market sectors, receive strong mentorship, and have opportunities to grow both technically and professionally.

What You’ll Do

  • Support and deliver technical survey services across diverse project types: land development, landfill, environmental, FEMA, transportation, and government work.
  • Operate and oversee survey instruments including GPS/GNSS systems, total stations, and data collectors.
  • Coordinate daily with the Survey Manager and project managers to plan, prioritize, and execute project tasks.
  • Manage multiple survey assignments in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining accuracy, quality, and deadlines.
  • Assist with preparing proposals and project documentation for new and ongoing work.
  • Participate in field operations, providing on‑site decision‑making and data collection support.
  • Perform boundary, topographic, route, construction stakeout, and transportation surveys.
  • Conduct deed research and analyze property records to support boundary determinations.
  • Process GPS/GNSS data, including RTK/VRS and static network least squares reduction.
  • Develop and maintain CAD files, survey drawings, plats, and related deliverables using AutoCAD, Carlson Civil, and Survey Suite.
  • Prepare metes and bounds descriptions and final plats in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Complete ALTA surveys and ensure compliance with current requirements.
  • Communicate effectively with clients and internal teams, providing updates and addressing technical questions.
  • Travel short‑term as needed to support field operations.
  • Work occasional overtime to meet project deadlines.
  • Contribute to a collaborative team culture by sharing knowledge and mentoring emerging surveyors.

What You Bring

  • High school diploma required; degree in Land Surveying is a plus.
  • Minimum 5 years of survey experience, including project coordination or management.
  • Active NC and VA land surveying licenses, or the ability to obtain them.
  • Strong background in boundary, topo, route, construction stakeout, and transportation surveys.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD, Carlson Civil, and Survey Suite.
  • Experience with GPS/GNSS systems, RTK/VRS, and post‑processing workflows.
  • Ability to perform ALTA surveys and prepare plats, legal descriptions, and CAD deliverables.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work directly with clients.
  • Dependable, self‑motivated, and detail‑oriented work style.
  • Willingness to travel for short‑term assignments and work overtime when needed.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to pass required screenings.

Preferred Qualifications

  • SIT/LSIT certification or interest in pursuing PLS licensure.
  • Experience with MicroStation, GeoPak, or additional survey software.
  • Familiarity with public and private sector projects, including federal, land development, pipeline, and renewable energy.
  • Ability to adapt to multiple roles—from field support to office‑based project management.

Work Environment

You’ll be based in our downtown Raleigh office, working in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment that blends office and field responsibilities. Expect regular interaction with the Survey Manager, project managers, and clients, along with opportunities to work across a wide range of market sectors. Our culture emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and hands‑on learning—ideal for someone looking to advance toward licensure and broaden their technical skill set.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Raleigh, NC.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Raleigh,NC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 18, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

  • Hiring diverse talent
  • Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
  • Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
  • Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $25 - $35

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