Instrument Operator

PS&S; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) and tuition reimbursement

Ongoing training and career development program

Job summary

PS&S in Raleigh, North Carolina, is looking for a motivated Instrument Operator to aid survey crews in various civil, transportation, and site-development projects. The ideal candidate will enjoy hands-on fieldwork and contribute to high-quality data collection.

The role requires field experience, effective operation of survey equipment, strong communication skills, and the ability to work outdoors in varying conditions. Join a firm that values growth and offers competitive compensation along with a diverse workplace.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience in land surveying or related fieldwork.
• Familiarity with modern survey instruments and data collectors.
• Valid driver's license with an unrestricted driving record.
• OSHA 10-hour certification.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the coordination of field activities and maintain survey equipment.
• Operate field equipment such as total stations and data collectors.
• Perform field calculations and ensure data accuracy.
• Follow safety protocols and contribute to safe field operations.

Skills

Field experience in land surveying

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Ability to work outdoors

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Nikon-Carlson GPS

Topcon Total Stations

TDS data collectors

Job description

Overview

PS&S is an award winning "one-stop shop" of architecture and engineering excellence, which was established in 1962. The depth and breadth of our expertise has helped PS&S grow into a firm offering multi-disciplined, full-service architecture, engineering, design, environmental and surveying consulting services. PS&S recently acquired Priest, Craven & Associates, a well-respected Raleigh firm and are looking to continue to grow in the Raleigh, Durham and Research Triangle market.

Position Summary

Our Raleigh, North Carolina office is seeking a motivated Instrument Operator to support survey crews on a range of civil, transportation, and site-development projects. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands‑on fieldwork, problem‑solving, and contributing to high‑quality data collection that drives engineering design.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the coordination of field activities, including the effective operations, performance, and maintenance of all survey equipment.
• Possess field experience in all types of land surveying, including boundary, topographic, physical, and construction stake‑out, along with a history in data collection and instrument operations.
• Operate field equipment such as conventional total stations and data collectors, providing front‑end locations and stake‑outs, and supporting tasks assigned by the Party Chief.
• May oversee a field crew's daily operations of all field activities including boundary, topographic, and as‑built surveys and construction layout.
• Perform field calculations, note‑taking, and quality checks to ensure accurate data.
• Set up, break down, and transport equipment safely.
• Follow firm safety protocols and contribute to a culture of safe field operations.
• Perform all other duties assigned by management.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1-3 years of experience in land surveying or related fieldwork.
• Familiarity with modern survey instruments and data collectors.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain.
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
• Valid driver’s license with an unrestricted driving record.
• OSHA 10-hour certification.
• Interest in long‑term career growth within surveying.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and overtime as needed.
• Physical ability to work outdoors on project sites that may extend several miles, carry equipment, and walk throughout the day.
• Experience with Nikon-Carlson GPS.
• Experience with Topcon Total Stations and TDS data collectors is a plus.
• Working knowledge of Static and RTK GPS is desired but not required.

What We Offer

• We encourage growth and development through career mapping, ongoing training, and a career development program.
• We foster an upbeat, creative, and fun environment.
• We offer exposure to diverse project types, cross‑team collaboration, and opportunities to grow technical skills.
• We offer competitive compensation and an expansive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision benefits, life insurance, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, and more.
• No recruiters or agencies please.
• Candidates must be based in the United States and must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.

PS&S, LLC. is an equal‑opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We strive to create workplaces that reflect the communities we serve, where everyone feels respected and empowered to bring their full authentic selves to work. Together we are committed to building and supporting a culture where differences and inclusion are welcomed, embraced, and valued. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.