Instrument Operator

Instrument Operator

Position Summary

The Instrument Operator assists the Surveyor and survey crew with construction layout, measurements, elevations, and field data collection for civil construction projects. This position operates and maintains surveying instruments and equipment to ensure accurate construction staking and layout.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Party Chief/Surveyor with daily field surveying and construction layout activities.
• Set up, operate, and maintain total stations, GPS/GNSS equipment, levels, and other surveying instruments.
• Perform construction staking for roads, utilities, drainage, structures, grading, and other civil work.
• Establish and verify benchmarks, control points, elevations, and coordinates.
• Take accurate field measurements and record survey data.
• Assist with checking grades, slopes, elevations, offsets, and horizontal/vertical alignment.
• Perform topographic and as-built surveys as directed.
• Read and interpret construction plans, site plans, profiles, and survey drawings.
• Communicate with equipment operators, foremen, superintendents, and project management regarding layout and grade requirements.
• Maintain survey equipment and report damaged or malfunctioning equipment.
• Assist with downloading, organizing, and transferring field data between surveying equipment and office systems.
• Follow project specifications, safety procedures, and company policies.
• Maintain accurate field notes and documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Party Chief, Survey Manager, or Project Superintendent.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as an Instrument Man/Operator, Survey Rodman, Survey Technician, or similar construction surveying position preferred.
• Experience with total stations, GPS/GNSS, digital levels, and data collectors preferred.
• Ability to read and understand civil construction plans and survey drawings.
• Basic understanding of construction layout, elevations, grades, coordinates, and benchmarks.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving measurements, angles, elevations, and distances.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on active construction sites.
• Ability to lift equipment and materials and perform physical work as required.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and safety.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with construction staking for road, utility, earthwork, and concrete projects.
• Basic knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or survey data-processing software is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a survey/construction crew.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Work Environment

This position is primarily field-based and requires working on active civil construction sites. The employee may be exposed to heavy equipment, traffic, dust, noise, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is required at all times in designated areas.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and work on uneven terrain for extended periods.
• Ability to carry and handle surveying equipment and related materials.
• Ability to work around heavy construction equipment while maintaining safe working distances.
• Ability to work extended hours, weekends, or varying schedules when required by project needs.