Instrument Operator

Woolpert • Virginia Beach, VA

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Woolpert is hiring a mid-level Survey Instrument Operator to join its Survey & Geomatics team in Virginia. Under the supervision of the Survey Crew Chief, this role performs advanced land survey tasks, operates and maintains survey instruments, collects accurate field data, and provides technical support to the survey team. The position requires a solid understanding of surveying principles and practices, technical proficiency, computer skills for data management and analysis, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

The operator supports field assignments including field calculations, boundary monument recovery, brush clearing, topographic surveying, utility inventories, geodetic control, and photo/LiDAR control. The role also involves recording and transferring field data, maintaining and transporting equipment, troubleshooting instruments and data-collection issues, and assisting with preliminary data processing. The operator may train junior staff and help coordinate the team while communicating with crew members, clients, and other stakeholders.

Work is primarily outdoors, often in remote or rugged locations and varying weather conditions. The position requires up to 80% travel, primarily throughout Virginia, with occasional travel elsewhere on the East Coast and in the Midwest. The schedule is 10 days on and 4 days off, and overtime may be required. A company vehicle is provided for business travel, with associated vehicle expenses covered; lodging and per diem are provided for non-local onsite projects. Woolpert cannot provide visa sponsorship, and applicants must already have work authorization in the country where the job is located.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Applicable OSHA certifications.
• At least 4 years of experience in land surveying or a related field.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position, including its mental and physical demands.
• Average verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present information one-on-one and in small groups.
• Ability to travel frequently and extensively, including overnight and out-of-town travel.
• Ability to work overtime as required.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, plans, and construction drawings.
• Good physical condition and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Proficient computer skills, including data transfer, data-processing software, and basic CAD/GIS applications.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a pre-employment Motor Vehicle Record check; must maintain a satisfactory driving record.
• Must successfully pass pre-employment background and drug screening; periodic drug testing may be required.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and frequently stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, bend, climb, and/or balance.
• Ability to frequently lift and/or move 40 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.
• Vision abilities including close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to use tools and equipment such as a tape measure, cloth or steel tape, machete, and hammer.
• Must already possess work authorization in the country where the job is located; visa sponsorship is unavailable.

Responsibilities

• Follow the Survey Crew Chief’s instructions and established survey procedures and safety guidelines.
• Read maps, plans, and construction drawings; perform survey-related mathematical calculations.
• Operate, set up, break down, and maintain total stations, GNSS equipment, levels, data collectors, and other survey equipment.
• Collect and verify accurate field data for various types of surveys.
• Support field assignments such as field calculations, boundary monument recovery, brush clearing, topographic surveying, utility inventories, geodetic control, and photo/LiDAR control.
• Record detailed field data, notes, sketches, and reports using electronic data collectors.
• Transfer field data to office computers, log downloads, and perform preliminary data processing.
• Monitor equipment condition, troubleshoot technical issues, and report repair needs.
• Transport, load, unload, clean, and store survey equipment and tools, keeping them in good working condition.
• Train and mentor junior survey staff and assist the Survey Crew Chief with team coordination.
• Communicate with team members, clients, and other stakeholders to support timely and accurate project completion.
• Travel for projects, including overnight and out-of-town assignments, and work overtime as required.

Benefits

• Company-provided vehicle for business travel and coverage of associated vehicle expenses.
• Company-provided lodging and per diem for non-local onsite projects.
• Competitive pay.
• Freedom to Work program, allowing employees to set their schedule and location as appropriate.
• Opportunity to become an owner of the firm through the Principal program.
• Flexible paid time off/vacation.
• Career development and learning opportunities.
• Health insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Paid sick time.
• Retirement plan.
• Fitness reimbursement.
• Pet insurance.
• Identity protection.
• Technology stipend.
• Employee assistance program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED