Survey Instrument Operator
About The Position
Woolpert is hiring a mid-level Survey Instrument Operator for its Survey & Geomatics team in Houston, Texas. Under the supervision of the Survey Crew Chief, the operator performs advanced land survey tasks, operates and maintains survey instruments, collects and verifies field data, and supports data transfer and preliminary processing. The role requires sound knowledge of survey principles, technical proficiency, computer skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. The position supports field assignments such as field calculations, boundary monument recovery, brush clearing, topographic surveying, utility inventories, geodetic control establishment, and photo/LiDAR control. The operator records field data electronically and in detailed notes, assists with equipment setup and breakdown, maintains equipment, and troubleshoots instrument and data-collection issues. The role also involves helping coordinate the team and training junior staff. Work is primarily outdoors, often in remote or rugged locations and varied weather. The role typically follows a Monday-through-Friday schedule, supports projects throughout Texas, requires up to 75% travel, and may involve occasional extended travel elsewhere in the United States. Overtime is required as needed. The position may lead to advancement within the surveying department with additional training and experience.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Applicable OSHA certifications.
- At least 4 years of experience in land surveying or a related field.
- Ability to work with survey-related mathematical concepts, including proportions, percentages, area, circumference, volume, slope, elevations, and coordinates.
- Ability to read and interpret maps, plans, and construction drawings.
- Proficient computer skills, including data transfer, data-processing software, and basic CAD/GIS applications.
- Average verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present information in one-on-one and small-group situations.
- Mental and physical capability to perform all essential duties.
- Ability to travel frequently and extensively, including overnight and out-of-town travel.
- Ability to work overtime as required.
- Good physical condition and ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.
- Valid driver's license, satisfactory driving record, and successful completion of a pre-employment Motor Vehicle Record check.
- Successful completion of pre-employment background and drug screening; periodic drug testing may be required.
- Must already have work authorization in the country where the job is located; visa sponsorship is not available.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and frequently stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, bend, climb, and/or balance.
- Ability to use tools and equipment such as a tape measure, cloth or steel tape, machete, and hammer.
- Ability to frequently lift and/or move 40 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.
- Required close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth vision, and ability to adjust focus.
Responsibilities
- Follow instructions from the Survey Crew Chief and established survey procedures and safety guidelines.
- Read and interpret maps, plans, and construction drawings.
- Perform field calculations and assist with boundary monument recovery, brush clearing, topographic surveying, utility inventories, geodetic control establishment, and photo/LiDAR control.
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot total stations, GNSS equipment, levels, data collectors, and other survey instruments.
- Lead setup and breakdown of survey equipment at job sites.
- Collect and verify accurate field data for different types of surveys.
- Record precise field notes, sketches, reports, and electronic data.
- Download and transfer field data to office computers, log downloads, and perform preliminary data processing.
- Monitor equipment condition and report repair needs; clean, transport, store, and maintain survey equipment and tools.
- Load and unload equipment from the survey vehicle daily.
- Train and mentor junior survey staff and assist the Survey Crew Chief with team coordination.
- Communicate with team members, clients, and stakeholders to support timely and accurate project completion.
Benefits
- Freedom to Work program, allowing employees to set their schedule and location as appropriate.
- Principal program offering the opportunity to become an owner of the firm.
- Flexible paid time off and 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.
- Competitive pay.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
