Survey Instrument Operator

Bowman Consulting; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 34,440 - 48,216; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

401(k) with match

Paid time off

Tuition Reimbursement

Discretionary bonuses

EAP & Discounts

Job summary

Bowman Consulting in San Diego, California, seeks a Survey Instrument Operator to join our team. You will set up and operate survey equipment, perform boundary, topography, ALTA, right‑of‑way, and construction surveys for public and private clients, under supervision.

The ideal candidate has at least a high school diploma or GED, or commensurate experience, with math/survey coursework; entry-level acceptable.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred; commensurate relevant experience considered.
• College or technical courses in mathematics and surveying.
• Entry-level position; no prior experience required; survey or construction related experience a plus.
• Prior Instrument Operator experience preferred.
• Familiar with boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS land title surveys.
• Ability to work outside in all seasons.
• Travel and overtime required.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate survey equipment, including total-station, data-collector, level, and GPS.
• Perform boundary, topography, ALTA, right-of-way, and construction surveys for public and private clients.
• Assist field supervisor with daily crew workload and coordinate work.
• Perform survey calculations and stakeout tasks.
• Maintain survey equipment and keep survey truck stocked with supplies.
• Coordinate work of assigned personnel and train junior staff.

Skills

Outdoor work ability

Teamwork

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Travel flexibility

Education

High school diploma or GED

College/technical courses in mathematics and surveying

Tools

Total Station

Data Collector

Level

GPS

Job description

Short Description

Bowman has an opportunity for a Survey Instrument Operator to join our team in San Diego, California.

Purpose

Operate survey instruments and perform surveys as directed by management.

Responsibilities

• Perform work under direct supervision of an experienced professional and follow established procedures and clearly defined processes. Receive direction on all aspects of assignments, specific tasks and how to execute. Work is thoroughly reviewed by more senior staff to ensure application of sound techniques and principles.
• Assist the field supervisor with all aspects of the daily crew workload.
• Work as a member of a survey crew performing boundary, topography, ALTA, right-of-way, and construction surveys for public and private clients.
• Set‑up and operate survey equipment, including total‑station, data‑collector, level, and GPS.
• Perform survey calculations.
• Perform all aspects of stakeout and location surveys using applicable survey equipment.
• Maintain survey equipment and keep survey truck stocked with necessary supplies and tools.
• Coordinate work of assigned subordinate personnel.
• Assist and train personnel in lower‑level positions.
• Make accuracy and calibration checks and adjustments on equipment used.
• Daily work safely and in compliance with all safety regulations.
• Daily care of instruments and vehicle.

Success Metrics and Competencies

• Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
• Highly motivated and problem‑solving attitude.
• Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
• Self‑reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
• Effective working relationship with internal leaders and peers, as well as external clients.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred. Commensurate relevant experience considered.
• College or technical courses in mathematics and surveying.
• Entry‑level position, no prior experience required. Any survey or construction related experience is a plus.
• Prior Instrument Operator experience preferred.
• Familiar with field procedures for performing boundary, topographic, ALTA/NSPS land title surveys.
• Ability to work outside in all seasons.
• Travel and overtime required.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record required.

Benefits

Salary and eligible variable compensation (if any) commensurate with experience. Range is $25.00/hour - $35.00/hour and includes a comprehensive benefits package.

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
• Discretionary bonuses and other performance‑based incentives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.

Physical Demands and Working Environment

• Primarily outdoor work environment which may include adverse weather conditions, varying temperatures, excessive noise, and/or potential hazards.
• Mobility around a job/construction site to include walking, bending, crawling, climbing, squatting, or kneeling and wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Frequent and prolonged use of data collection equipment and/or drones, necessitating walking the assigned study area to complete data collection over the course of several hours.
• Primarily local travel during the business day, although some out‑of‑the‑area and overnight travel may be required according to the needs of the business.
• Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
• Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
• Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.

Job Description Disclaimer

Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you’d like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.

Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol‑free workplace.