Entry Level Land Surveyor Instrument Operator

Land Surveyor Instrument Operator / Party Chief

The Land Surveyor Instrument Operator / Party Chief is responsible for leading or supporting field survey crews on projects across the Southeast. This role plays a key part in collecting accurate survey data, keeping projects on schedule, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring clients receive reliable results. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in the field, directing daily survey activities, managing equipment, and producing clear, accurate documentation for a variety of surveying projects.

• Lead or assist a survey crew in the field while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and accuracy.
• Plan and coordinate daily field activities, assign work to crew members, and manage logistics to meet project deadlines.
• Research project locations and review existing records, landmarks, and site conditions before survey work.
• Provide direction to field personnel and adjust priorities as needed to keep projects moving efficiently.
• Verify field measurements, calculations, and data collection to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Oversee the proper use, maintenance, and care of survey instruments, equipment, and company vehicles.
• Collect and validate survey data, including angles, distances, elevations, and coordinates, in accordance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Work closely with engineers, clients, and project stakeholders to communicate survey findings and field observations.
• Review deeds, plats, maps, and prior survey records to support boundary, topographic, and other survey projects.
• Establish and reestablish survey control points and reference markers using appropriate methods and procedures.
• Maintain detailed field notes, sketches, and records of work performed.
• Complete daily field reports, logs, and expense reports accurately and on time.
• Ensure all required safety documentation is completed and that crew members follow company safety procedures.
• Coordinate with office staff to review and validate field data and final survey deliverables.
• Operate Total Stations, data collectors, levels, GPS equipment, and other survey tools to gather and transfer field data efficiently.
• Maintain accountability for assigned equipment and vehicles and report maintenance needs promptly.
• Perform boundary and topographic surveys independently when required, with minimal supervision.

• Strong understanding of surveying principles, field calculations, and data collection methods.
• Hands-on experience using Total Stations, data collectors, levels, GPS equipment, and related survey technology.
• Familiarity with standard surveying terminology, procedures, and best practices.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in the field.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate work.
• Solid problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Dependable team player with strong leadership capabilities.
• Willingness to travel up to 50% throughout the Southeast as project needs require.

• Previous experience as an Instrument Operator, Party Chief, Crew Chief, or similar surveying professional.
• Experience performing boundary and topographic surveys.
• Familiarity with survey software and geomatics applications.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with clients, engineers, and project teams.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and safe field practices.
• Interest in supporting infrastructure and community development projects.

• This position is based in the Charlotte area but requires extensive field work throughout the Southeast. Most of the job is performed outdoors and may involve working in varying weather, terrain, and environmental conditions. Travel is expected approximately 50% of the time, depending on project demands. The role requires regular use of survey equipment, vehicles, and field technology, along with a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and high-quality project execution.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $26.00/hr.

Eligibil…