Survey Field Crew Assistant (Instrument Operator)

Racey Engineering, PLLC; Roanoke (VA); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with employer match

Paid leave and holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Racey Engineering, PLLC is seeking a Survey Field Crew Assistant (Instrument Operator) for field work with a construction survey crew in Virginia. Start date is 09/02/2026, with location options in Luray or Roanoke.

No prior survey experience required, just a willingness to learn and to work outdoors. You will begin by carrying the rod and running the prism, advancing to instrument operation as you earn it.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Willingness to learn quickly and a strong work ethic are essential.
• Ability to work outdoors in all seasons and weather.

Responsibilities

• Work as a member of a survey crew on construction stakeout, layout, topographic, and as-built surveys.
• Set up and operate survey equipment – total station, data collector, level, GPS – under the crew chief's direction.
• Search for property corners, control, and other survey points.
• Measure distances with tapes and electronic devices, recording accurate field measurements.
• Clear brush, trees, and obstructions from the survey line.
• Perform accuracy and calibration checks on equipment.
• Help maintain equipment and survey vehicle, flagging items needing repair.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Self-starter

Strong work ethic

Outdoor work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Total station

Data collector

GPS

Job description

Survey Field Crew Assistant (Instrument Operator)

Start Date: 09/02/2026

Location: Luray, VA or Roanoke, VA

Salary: $18 - $25 per hour

Description

Tentative ad closing date: 10/01/2026 with interviews occurring between 10/09/2026 and 10/22/2026

This is an entry-level field position on a construction survey crew. You do not need survey experience. You need to want to be outdoors, to pick things up quickly, and to show up.

You will start carrying the rod and running the prism, and you will move onto the instrument as fast as you earn it. People who take this seriously become instrument operators inside a year and crew chiefs in a few. Racey reimburses relevant certification and licensure costs.

Duties and Responsibilities

Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

• Work as a member of a survey crew on construction stakeout, layout, topographic, and as-built surveys.
• Set up and operate survey equipment - total station, data collector, level, and GPS - under the crew chief's direction.
• Search for property corners, control, and other survey points.
• Measure distances with tapes and electronic devices, and record accurate field measurements.
• Clear brush, trees, and other obstructions from the survey line.
• Perform accuracy and calibration checks on equipment.
• Help maintain equipment and the survey vehicle, and flag anything needing repair or replacement.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• A valid, insurable driver's license with a clean record.
• A willingness to learn quickly, a self-starter mentality, and a solid work ethic.
• Willingness to work outdoors for extended periods in all seasons and weather.
• Ability to lift and carry at least 50 lbs.
• Ability to pass a drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Any survey or construction-related experience.
• College or technical coursework in mathematics or surveying.
• OSHA certification or safety training.
• CST, MOT, CPR, or first aid certifications.

Physical Requirements, Travel, and Schedule

• Full-time, 8-hour shifts with overtime and per diem available. In person - this is field work.
• Willingness to travel with frequent overnight stays for out-of-area assignments.
• Must be able to pass a drug screening.

Compensation

$18 - $25 per hour, set by level and experience. Overtime and bonus opportunities are available.

BeNEFITS

Racey Engineering is a 2026 Best Places to Work in Virginia firm, and we offer a strong and growing benefits package for our employees. A few highlights:

• Health insurance ($0 deductible; 75% paid by employer)
• Group Term Life Insurance paid by employer ($50,000)
• Dental, vision, and other supplemental insurances
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid leave and holidays
• Bereavement, Parental, and Jury Duty Leave
• Education and tuition reimbursement

Opportunity Awaits

At Racey Engineering you will find a family-oriented culture that cares about you (and your family) and about making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. You will work on projects across the Commonwealth while we support you as you learn and grow your technical and professional skills. We are looking for people who share our values and want to contribute to a strong work environment. If you are ready to take on new challenges, grow your skills, and make a meaningful impact, we would like to hear from you.

Racey Engineering, PLLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.