Machine Control Modeler

Ames Construction; United States; On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

401(k) match

Health benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Ames Construction is seeking a detail‑oriented Machine Control Modeler/Survey CAD Technician to join our civil construction team in Burnsville, MN. You will create precise 3D models, manage CAD and survey data, and support machine control across Midwest projects.

The ideal candidate will have at least two years of Trimble software experience, be highly organized, and able to work independently. FAA 107 license or progress toward one is required within a year.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years' experience with Trimble Business Center and Trimble civil software programs.
• Experience with Civil 3D or Bentley products preferred; must adapt to established workflows.
• Ability to read and interpret contract documents such as grading plans, road alignments, cross sections, and site details.
• FAA 107 Remote Pilot License or ability to obtain within a year of employment.
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, well organized, and able to learn new software.

Responsibilities

• Construct 3D machine control and site layout models for Trimble Siteworks/Earthworks.
• Perform earthwork takeoffs from various data sources or surveys.
• Support field crews working with digital design data.
• Maintain drafting standards for uniformity across projects.
• Perform drafting tasks for as-builts and related items.

Skills

Trimble Business Center

Siteworks

Earthworks

Civil 3D

Bentley products

Drone operations

Reading plans

Geospatial data

Tools

Trimble civil software

CAD formats

Job description

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and our people are the reason we continue to succeed. We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial contractor building critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, mines, dams, rail, and more.

Our teams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chains moving, and the country connected. At Ames, we are Fueled by Family. That means we look out for one another, take pride in our work, and build strong relationships rooted in trust and respect.

Guided by our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we do what we say we will do, push through challenges, and deliver work we’re proud of.

When you join Ames, you’re joining a company built for long‑term success, where skilled people, strong teams, and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

The Machine Control Modeler/ Survey CAD Technician is a detail-oriented 3D Machine Control Model Builder wanting to join our civil construction team.

This role involves creating precise 3D models and managing CAD and survey data to support machine control and surveying operations across various projects throughout the Midwest.

The ideal candidate is highly organized and proficient in Trimble civil construction software, including Trimble Business Center, Siteworks, and Earthworks. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently are essential for success in this position.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Construct 3D machine control and site layout models and designs for use with Trimble’s civil suite of products (Siteworks/Earthworks).
• Perform earthwork takeoffs using data from various sources or survey methods.
• Provide support for field crews working with digital design data.
• Employ company CAD and drafting standards to maintain uniformity across all projects.
• Perform drafting tasks for as-builts and other miscellaneous items as required by projects.
• Review and manipulate various CAD file formats – capable of understanding and transforming between various CAD file formats.
• Ability to perform or assist with drone flights as needed.
• Perform other field and office related tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years' experience working with Trimble Business Center and Trimble civil software programs.
• Applicable experience with Civil 3D or Bentley products will be considered. However, the applicant must be willing to adapt to software that aligns with our established workflows and standards.
• Ability to read & interpret contract documents, such as, grading plans, road alignments, cross sections, and site details from approved engineering plans.
• FAA 107 Remote Pilot License or be able to obtain one within a year of employment.
• Capable of resolving a wide range of technical issues related to civil geospatial data.
• Strong problem-solving aptitude is required.
• Must be very detail-oriented, self-motivated, and well organized.
• Demonstrates ability to learn new software & methods.
• Previous field surveying experience preferred, but not required.
• Working Conditions Location – This position will report out of our Burnsville office, M-F, 7-4, in office.
• Travel – This role may require occasional travel to job sites.
• Office environment – extensive sitting at desk and computer; some standing, bending at the waist, stooping and reaching required; ability to lift 5-20 pounds occasionally.
• Construction Site Environment – physical ability to stand, walk, crawl, bend, reach and climb. Exposed to high noise levels.

Total Rewards

Base salary range is $85,000 - $120,000 a year, which varies depending on many factors, including experience, skills, and knowledge. This role is eligible for a discretionary bonus.

• Ames offers generous retirement benefits, including Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) participation and a 401k match.
• Ames' non-craft health benefits package is designed so that our team members flourish, with medical, dental, and vision (all at one low premium), voluntary benefits, company holidays, and paid time off.

Please see the Benefits section of our Careers page for more information.

Ames Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and the people who work here are the reason we continue to succeed.

We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial contractor building critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, mines, dams, rail, and more.

Our teams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chains moving, and the country connected.

At Ames, we are Fueled by Family and Driven by Ownership. That means we look out for one another, take pride in what we build, and take responsibility for our actions, our results, and the long-term health of the company.

Guided by our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we do what we say we will do, push through challenges and deliver work we’re proud of.

When you join Ames, you’re joining a company built for long‑term success — where skilled people, strong teams, and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

Ames Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.