Rod Man

Paycom - ATS; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Environmental Allies seeks a Survey Rod Man to support the field crew with measurements, layout, equipment setup, and daily site tasks. This is a hands-on outdoor position for someone who follows instructions carefully, works reliably with a team, and takes pride in doing the basics correctly.

Houston-area project sites with early starts and overtime possible. Previous survey experience is helpful, but the role does not require independent instrument operation or model building.

Qualifications

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, communicate with the crew, and work reliably as part of a team.
• Basic math and measurement skills, including the ability to read a tape measure and understand simple field markings.
• Ability to learn correct rod and prism handling, recognize common survey tools, and handle equipment and supplies carefully.
• Attention to safety, dependable attendance, and willingness to work outdoors at assigned Houston-area project sites.
• Reliable transportation to the designated reporting location. A valid driver’s license and ability to meet company driving requirements are necessary only if company-vehicle driving is assigned.

Responsibilities

• Hold and position rods and prism poles accurately at locations directed by the Party Chief or Instrument Man. Maintain a plumb pole and verify the correct rod or pole height.
• Set hubs, stakes, lath, flags, and other survey markers as directed. Label markings clearly and protect established control and reference points.
• Help locate existing monuments and control points, take tape measurements, and gather field information under crew supervision. Report disturbed or missing markers.
• Carry, set up, and retrieve tripods, rods, tools, and other survey equipment. Check that the crew has the required supplies before leaving for the job.
• Keep equipment, vehicles, and storage areas clean and organized. Assist with loading, battery charging, basic cleaning, and routine care; report damage or missing items.
• Maintain clear visual and verbal communication with the instrument operator. Repeat instructions when needed and alert the crew if a rod moves or a measurement may be incorrect.

Skills

Teamwork

Math basics

Measurement

Safety awareness

Outdoor work

Communication

Reading tape

Tools

Rods

Prisms

Tripods

Tape measure

Markers

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Houston, TX 77064, Position Type: Full Time, Salary Range: $16.00 - $18.00 Hourly, Environmental Allies seeks a Survey Rod Man to support the field crew with measurements, layout, equipment setup, and daily site tasks. This is a hands‑on outdoor position for someone who follows instructions carefully, works reliably with a team, and takes pride in doing the basics correctly. Previous survey experience is helpful; the role does not require independent instrument operation or model building.

Essential responsibilities

• Hold and position rods and prism poles accurately at locations directed by the Party Chief or Instrument Man. Maintain a plumb pole and verify the correct rod or pole height.
• Set hubs, stakes, lath, flags, and other survey markers as directed. Label markings clearly and protect established control and reference points.
• Help locate existing monuments and control points, take tape measurements, and gather field information under crew supervision. Report disturbed or missing markers.
• Carry, set up, and retrieve tripods, rods, tools, and other survey equipment. Check that the crew has the required supplies before leaving for the job.
• Keep equipment, vehicles, and storage areas clean and organized. Assist with loading, battery charging, basic cleaning, and routine care; report damage or missing items.
• Maintain clear visual and verbal communication with the instrument operator. Repeat instructions when needed and alert the crew if a rod moves or a measurement may be incorrect.
• Clear limited lines of sight using approved hand tools only when trained, authorized, and permitted. Respect property boundaries, access restrictions, and site protection requirements.
• Assist with drone target placement and ground support when assigned and trained. Flight operation and advanced technical work require separate qualification and authorization.
• Participate in daily safety discussions, use required protective equipment, and report heat stress, traffic, equipment, or other hazards. Follow safe tool‑handling and lifting procedures.
• Follow assigned work schedules, record time accurately, and complete related field tasks within training and authorization. Ask for direction before proceeding with uncertain instructions.

Qualifications: Required qualifications

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, communicate with the crew, and work reliably as part of a team.
• Basic math and measurement skills, including the ability to read a tape measure and understand simple field markings.
• Ability to learn correct rod and prism handling, recognize common survey tools, and handle equipment and supplies carefully.
• Attention to safety, dependable attendance, and willingness to work outdoors at assigned Houston‑area project sites.
• Reliable transportation to the designated reporting location. A valid driver’s license and ability to meet company driving requirements are necessary only if company‑vehicle driving is assigned.

Preferred qualifications

• Previous experience as a rodman or survey helper, or related construction or outdoor field experience. Familiarity with stakes, rods, prisms, survey terminology, and hand tools is helpful. Interest in learning survey instruments and progressing toward Instrument Man duties is encouraged.

Schedule and physical demands

Work is performed in person at Houston‑area project sites. Early starts, overtime, and occasional weekend work may be needed based on project schedules and weather.

Essential duties involve working outdoors in heat, humidity, rain, and changing weather; walking and standing on uneven terrain; bending and kneeling; and carrying, positioning, and operating survey equipment and supplies. Work may occur near traffic and active construction. Use required personal protective equipment and safe lifting methods. Essential functions may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Compensation and performance

Starting pay is based on relevant experience and demonstrated skills. This position is structured as hourly and nonexempt, with overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Record all time worked accurately. Overtime hours are not guaranteed.

Success means accurate rod placement, clear markings, dependable communication, organized equipment, and consistent attention to the crew’s safety. As skills develop, additional technical tasks may be assigned under supervision.

Environmental Allies is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process and employment.

This description identifies the primary duties and qualifications of the role. Related duties may be assigned as business needs change. It does not create an employment contract.