Lead Survey Instrument Operator

Pavement Restorations Inc.; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Pavement Restorations Inc. is seeking a Lead Survey Instrument Operator in Knoxville, TN to manage and operate a range of survey instruments for civil engineering and construction projects. The role supervises junior staff and ensures data accuracy and safety across fieldwork.

The position requires strong instrument proficiency, leadership ability, and travel to project sites, with a focus on quality and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating survey instruments in the field.
• Demonstrated experience leading survey crews or teams.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Trimble, Leica, Topcon equipment.
• Strong understanding of survey principles, coordinate systems, and field procedures.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to various project sites.
• OSHA or similar safety training certification (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Operate, calibrate, and maintain survey instruments including total stations, GPS/GNSS, data collectors, and digital levels.
• Lead survey crews and oversee daily field operations to meet plans, specs, and timelines.
• Record, interpret, and verify survey measurements for engineering and design purposes.
• Coordinate fieldwork with project managers, engineers, clients, and stakeholders.
• Review and adhere to safety policies and regulatory guidelines for surveying.
• Train and mentor junior staff in instrument operation and field procedures.
• Prepare and submit daily field reports, sketches, and notes with accurate observations.
• Assist with boundary, topographic, construction layout, and as-built surveys as required.

Skills

Leadership and team coordination

Attention to detail

Communication

Problem-solving

Physical stamina/outdoor work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary education in surveying or geomatics

CST certification (preferred)

Tools

AutoCAD

Trimble

Leica

Topcon

Laser scanning (preferred)

UAV/drone survey technologies (preferred)

Job description

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Lead Survey Instrument Operator

5651 South National Drive
Knoxville, TN 37914

Job Title: Lead Survey Instrument Operator

Position Overview

The Lead Survey Instrument Operator is responsible for managing and operating a wide range of survey instruments to collect precise field data for civil engineering, construction, and land development projects. This role supervises and mentors junior survey staff, ensures data accuracy, and maintains high safety and quality standards throughout all fieldwork activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, calibrate, and maintain survey instruments including total stations, GPS/GNSS devices, data collectors, and digital levels.
• Lead survey crews and oversee daily field operations, ensuring projects are executed according to plans, specifications, and timelines.
• Record, interpret, and verify survey measurements; ensure data relevance and accuracy for engineering and design purposes.
• Coordinate fieldwork with project managers, engineers, clients, and other stakeholders.
• Review and adhere to safety policies and regulatory guidelines relevant to surveying activities.
• Train and mentor junior staff in instrument operation and field procedures.
• Prepare and submit daily field reports, sketches, and notes with accurate observations.
• Assist with boundary, topographic, construction layout, and as-built surveys as required.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical training in surveying, geomatics, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience operating survey instruments in the field.
• Demonstrated experience leading survey crews or teams.
• Proficient in the use and troubleshooting of modern survey equipment and software (e.g., AutoCAD, Trimble, Leica, Topcon).
• Strong understanding of survey principles, coordinate systems, field procedures, and project specifications.
• Excellent attention to detail, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel to various project sites.

Preferred Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in surveying, geomatics, civil engineering technology, or a related discipline.
• Certification as a Survey Technician (CST) or equivalent credential.
• Previous experience with laser scanning and UAV/drone survey technologies.
• OSHA or similar safety training certification.

Relevant Skills and Competencies

• Leadership and team coordination
• Time management and organization
• Technical proficiency with survey instruments and data collection tools
• Data accuracy and quality control
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Adaptability to dynamic field conditions
• Physical stamina for outdoor work

This position requires frequent outdoor work in diverse weather conditions and varied terrains. Occasional extended hours, travel, and lifting or carrying of equipment (up to 50 lbs) may be required.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, disability, or veteran status.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.