Survey Instrument Operator (Land Survey)

Jacobs; McDonough (GA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Jacobs is seeking an Instrument Operator to support boundary, topographic, right-of-way, construction and as-built surveys with a focus on accurate data and practical field experience.

This on-site role requires travel to project sites around McDonough, GA, collaboration with Crew Leader and project teams, and adherence to safety standards while delivering high-quality survey deliverables.

Qualifications

• Experience in land surveying, geomatics, or a related discipline.
• Ability to interpret survey records, legal descriptions, property documents, and engineering plans.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to travel as required by project needs.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments and varying site conditions when required.

Responsibilities

• Perform and support boundary, topographic, right-of-way, construction, and as-built surveys as directed by Crew Leader.
• Plan and coordinate survey field activities using GPS/GNSS, RTK, total stations, digital levels, laser scanning, and conventional survey methods.
• Develop and maintain survey control networks and perform coordinate geometry calculations.
• Help maintain quality standards, project schedules, and client requirements.
• Follow safety procedures and support a strong culture of health and safety.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills

Land surveying

Geomatics

GPS/GNSS RTK

Communication

Driver's license

Travel readiness

Tools

Laser scanning

Mobile mapping

UAV/drone technology

Geospatial tools

Job description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by delivering innovative solutions that create lasting value for our clients and communities. As an Instrument Operator, you'll support a variety of infrastructure and development projects by providing accurate survey data and technical expertise that help shape the built environment.

In this role, you'll collaborate with Crew Leader and project teams to plan, execute, and deliver survey services that support project success. You'll apply your knowledge of surveying principles, geospatial technologies, and data analysis to provide high-quality deliverables, solve complex challenges, and support informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

What You’ll Do

• Perform and support boundary, topographic, right-of-way, construction, and as-built surveys as directed by Crew Leader
• Plan and coordinate survey field activities using GPS/GNSS, RTK, total stations, digital levels, laser scanning, and conventional survey methods
• Develop and maintain survey control networks and perform coordinate geometry calculations
• Help maintain quality standards, project schedules, and client requirements
• Follow safety procedures and support a strong culture of health and safety
• Perform other duties as assigned

Here’s what you’ll need

• Experience in land surveying, geomatics, or a related discipline
• Ability to interpret survey records, legal descriptions, property documents, and engineering plans
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to travel as required by project needs
• Ability to work in outdoor environments and varying site conditions when required

Ideally, you’ll also have

• Experience supporting transportation, water, environmental, utility, or other infrastructure projects
• Experience with laser scanning, mobile mapping, UAV/drone technology, or other advanced geospatial tools
• Experience leading survey tasks, coordinating field crews, or reviewing technical deliverables
• Knowledge of Georgia Department of Transportation standards and specifications
• Experience supporting multidisciplinary project teams

This role requires travel and an on-site presence to support project needs. While the preferred location is McDonough, GA, we will also consider candidates located near other major Jacobs office locations.

The hourly pay range for this position is $21.35 to $33.46. Compensation is determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, geographic location, and market considerations.

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision and basic life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off (allocated plans start date 17 days per calendar year), seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount as well as legally mandated benefits.

The base salary range for this position is $44,000.00 to $69,600.00; though will be paid hourly based on hours worked. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

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.

Job posted on August 21, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.

Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.