Survey Technician/Instrument Operator

SAM; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 26,174 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Wellness Benefits

Financial Benefits

Work-Life Balance

Professional Development

Perks and Discounts

Culture and Awards/Achievements

Job summary

SAM in Virginia is looking for a Survey Technician/Instrument Operator to support field operations and ensure accurate data collection. You will operate advanced surveying instruments while working closely with a field crew on various projects. Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, a valid driver’s license, and some knowledge of surveying practices.

This role offers a competitive hourly wage between $19.00 to $25.00, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Valid, current driver’s license required.
• Previous industry experience preferred.
• Able to work outdoors year-round in all types of weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operate land surveying instruments to collect accurate data.
• Support Crew Chief in setup and operation of equipment.
• Maintain accurate field notes and measurements.

Skills

Knowledge of land surveying practices

Mathematical computations

Field operations

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

Who We Are

Founded in 1994, Surveying And Mapping, LLC (SAM) is a nationwide leader in geospatial and construction-phase solutions. With more than 50 offices and 1,600 professionals, we deliver the scale, technology, and expertise needed to support projects of any size. SAM streamlines project delivery through a single, coordinated team, offering in-house capabilities across land surveying, aerial mapping, subsurface utility engineering (SUE), utility coordination (UC), GIS, BIM, and construction engineering inspection (CEI).

By combining advanced technology, digital workflows, and decades of experience, we provide accurate, actionable data that helps clients move critical infrastructure projects forward with confidence. At SAM, you’ll be part of a team that values innovation, growth, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the built environment.

Your Impact at SAM

As a Survey Technician/Instrument Operator, you’ll play a key role in supporting daily field operations and ensuring the accurate collection of data for a variety of projects, including boundary, topographic, and construction layout surveys. Working as part of a field crew, you’ll use advanced surveying equipment and technology to help deliver high-quality results that meet client expectations and company standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate land surveying instruments to assist the field crew in collecting accurate, high-quality data
• Support the Crew Chief with setup and operation of robotic total stations, GNSS receivers, data radios/modems, terrestrial 3D laser scanners, and levels (automatic and digital)
• Use survey controllers and software to collect geospatial data and perform basic survey computations
• Read and interpret maps, plans, and drawings under the guidance of the Crew Chief
• Maintain accurate field notes, measurements, and sketches for project documentation
• Manage equipment logistics, including loading/unloading vehicles and cleaning/maintaining survey instruments and supplies
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure a safe work environment

What You Bring to SAM

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Valid, current driver’s license required
• Previous industry experience preferred
• Minimum knowledge of land surveying practices and performance of basic types of surveys, mathematical computations, and field operations
• Able to work outdoors year-round in all types of weather conditions and environments
• Available to travel/stay out of town for work as needed

Our Perks

• Health and Wellness Benefits: BlueCross BlueShield health insurance coverage begins the month after your hire date, Free Vision + Dental plans for employees, company-paid premiums for Long-term disability/Life Insurance (with HSA + FSA plans), SAM Cares program focused on holistic well-being
• Financial Benefits: Employee Referral Rewards Program of $1K, $2,500 or $5K, Fidelity retirement plans with a 5% company match, tuition reimbursement, optional cellphone stipend
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off including vacation/sick/holidays, parental leave to support families
• Professional Development: Customized career development plan for licensing and certifications, Project Manager Business Academy, CAD Training Program, Individual Development Plans/Career Check-Ins, SAM WINS - our initiative for women-focused leadership and development, Milestone Anniversary Recognition, SAMbassador mentorship program
• Perks and Discounts: Access to “Perks at Work” for discounts on wellness + travel + leisure and everyday purchases, company-sponsored events, free office snacks
• Culture and Awards/Achievements: SAM Named 2026 Top Workplace USA for the fourth Year; 2026 SAM Ranks No. 92 on ENR Top 500 Design Firms

Salary

Maximum: USD $25.00 per hour

Minimum: USD $19.00 per hour