Geomatics Survey Equipment Operator

VHB; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

VHB’s New England Region seeks a Geomatics Equipment Operator to join our team. You will perform land surveying tasks under the direction of senior Land Surveyors, operating Robotic total stations, data collectors, GPS, and related equipment.

Field work includes boundary, topographic, construction stakeout, and utility surveys, with travel across Maine on short notice, including nights and weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret survey, right-of-way, engineering, and architectural drawings.
• Learn and use GPS equipment and Robotic Instruments; understand geometry concepts.
• Understand boundary, topographic, construction, and utility survey processes.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with staff and clients.

Responsibilities

• Operate, transport and set up Robotic total stations, data collectors, GPS, and other surveying equipment.
• Conduct boundary, topographic, construction stakeout, and utility surveys.
• Recover markers and perform landscape staking using hand tools and digging.
• Travel on short notice, nights, weekends, and possibly extended periods across Maine.
• Maintain field notes and data collection records; ensure safety in outdoor environments.

Skills

Reading drawings

GPS equipment basics

Geometry concepts

Critical thinking

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

AutoCAD Civil3D

Job description

Overview

ABOUT THE POSITION

VHB’s New England Region is seeking a Geomatics Equipment Operator to join our team. Check out VHB’s Geomatics service page to learn more about this team and our capabilities!

Responsibilities

Perform various land surveying tasks under the direction of more senior Land Surveyors including:

• Operation, transport and setup of Robotic total stations, data collectors, GPS, and other land surveying equipment
• Land surveying including boundary line, topographic survey, construction stakeout and utility surveys
• Reconnaissance and recovery of land surveying markers through use of hand tools and digging
• Construction stakeout of proposed improvements, including installation of stakes through use of sledgehammers and hand tools
• Operation and maintenance of surveying equipment
• Documenting all phases of survey work through clear field notes and data collection
• Ability to travel on short notice, at night, and/or on weekend shifts, and potentially for extended periods of time throughout Maine.
• Ability to endure harsh outdoor environments in uncomfortable/extreme temperatures, inclement weather, and remote locations.

Skills And Abilities

• Proficient in reading, understanding, and evaluating the significance of survey, right-of-way, engineering, and architectural drawings with respect to each survey project
• Ability to learn the proper use of GPS equipment and Robotic Instruments and mathematical concepts such as fundamentals of geometry
• Ability to learn and understand the basics of boundary, topographic, construction, and utility surveys
• Able to think critically
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with survey staff and clients
• AutoCAD experience desirable

Qualifications

• 0-1 year of experience or willingness to learn using standard survey equipment (i.e., RTK GPS, total station, levels)
• High school diploma or GED
• Willing to work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to outdoor elements
• Ability to transport land surveying equipment, navigate and traverse through difficult terrain, environments, and wooded areas
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Must be able to lift 75lbs
• Experience with AutoCAD Civil3D desirable, but not required

The hourly pay range for this position, located in Maine, is $21 to $24. The actual hourly rate offered will be determined based on job-related factors, including geographic location, internal equity, experience, credentials, skills, education, work schedule, and other factors permitted by law. The posted hourly range reflects base pay only. Additional compensation and benefits available to eligible employees are outlined in our Total Rewards Program.

Annual base salary is one component of VHB’s Total Rewards package. In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive annual incentive compensation bonuses, spot bonuses, and merit-based salary increases, providing opportunities to increase earnings beyond base pay. VHB also offers a differentiating work experience , including a comprehensive benefits package that includes eligibility to participate in the VHB 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and recognition programs.

Details on VHB’s benefits package can be found here: Benefits Checklist

Building What’s Next, Together.

Our people make the difference. We foster a technology-empowered, people‑driven, future‑ready culture where agility, innovation, and collaboration shape how we work every day.

When You Join VHB, You’ll Find

• Meaningful work on complex projects with real community impact
• A collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity and shared success
• Support to grow your skills and lead through change
• Learning and development supported by evolving tools and technologies, including AI
• Best-in-class benefits and a flexible, hybrid work environment

VHB is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. Since our founding, we have intentionally fostered a culture of inclusion and belonging, supported by deep-rooted core values, one of which is diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.