Survey Instrument Operator & Underground Utility Locator

Atlas Surveying Inc•Charlotte, NC

6d•$18 - $22

About The Position

Atlas Surveying, Inc. is seeking motivated individuals for an entry-level dual role as an Instrument Operator and Utility Locator. The position supports land surveying and underground utility locating projects across the company’s service areas in the Southeast. As an Instrument Operator, you will work with experienced surveying staff, assist with field operations, and learn basic land surveying techniques. As a Utility Locator, you will work under experienced SUE professionals to learn how to detect and mark buried infrastructure—including gas, water, sewer, electric, and communication lines—using specialized equipment. The role provides hands-on field experience and requires working outdoors in varied weather and field or construction environments, following safety procedures, and traveling overnight as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn new skills.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Physical ability to lift items weighing up to 300 pounds, walk long distances, and work on uneven terrain.
Comfort working in a construction or field environment.
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record (MVR).
No driving infractions for a minimum of three years to be approved to drive a company vehicle and be added to the company insurance policy.
Ability to travel overnight as needed.
Dependable, honest, safety-conscious, and able to follow directions.

Nice To Haves

Experience in construction, surveying, or underground utility work.
Background or experience with electromagnetic utility locating.
Mechanical or technical aptitude.

Responsibilities

Assist with setup and operation of surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS, and data collectors.
Learn and apply basic surveying techniques under the guidance of experienced surveyors.
Hold survey rods, measure distances, and accurately record data.
Follow directions from the Crew Chief and senior team members to support efficient and accurate surveying operations.
Maintain surveying equipment and help transport it to and from job sites.
Follow safety protocols and regulations.
Assist experienced utility locators in the field on a variety of projects.
Learn to operate electromagnetic (EM) utility locating equipment and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) for detecting non-conductive utilities.
Perform basic site setup and documentation tasks.
Use shovels and hand tools to carefully expose utilities when necessary.
Maintain accurate field notes and documentation.
Communicate with team members, project managers, and site personnel.
Learn to read and interpret basic utility maps and plans.
Help keep company vehicles and equipment clean and in working condition.
Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow company safety procedures.
Drive a company vehicle when approved and assigned.