Survey Technician/Instrument Operator

Gdbgeospatial; West Henrietta (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plans

Training programs

Job summary

Surveying And Mapping, LLC (SAM) is seeking a Survey Instrument Operator to support field surveys alongside a Crew Chief. You will set up and operate survey equipment such as robotic total stations, GNSS receivers, levels, and 3D laser scanners, and collect geospatial data for boundary, topographic, and construction layout surveys.

You will gain hands‑on experience with a range of survey equipment while contributing to daily crew success and project completion, in a role requiring outdoor work

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior surveying industry experience preferred.
• Comfort with technology and learning new equipment.
• Good attention to detail and ability to follow directions.
• Willingness to work outdoors year‑round in varying weather and environments.
• Able to travel and stay overnight for projects; valid driver's license; clean background check and drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Support daily field surveys under Crew Chief guidance.
• Set up/operate survey equipment (robotic total stations, GNSS, levels).
• Collect geospatial data with controllers and software; perform calculations.
• Read/interp maps and survey data to guide fieldwork.
• Record clear field notes and measurements under supervision.
• Load/unload and care for survey gear; keep tools clean.

Skills

Attention to detail

Clear communication

Willingness to learn

Team collaboration

Adjust to outdoor conditions

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Robotic total stations

GNSS receivers

Levels

Terrestrial 3D laser scanners

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 Instrument Operator, you’ll work alongside a Crew Chief to collect accurate field data for boundary, topographic, and construction layout surveys.

You’ll play an important role in the crew’s daily success while gaining hands‑on experience with a variety of survey equipment and projects.

What You’ll Do

• Support daily field surveys under the direction of a Crew Chief, communicating progress and helping resolve field challenges.
• Set up and operate survey equipment, including robotic total stations, GNSS receivers, levels, and terrestrial 3D laser scanners.
• Use survey controllers and software to collect geospatial data and perform survey calculations.
• Read and interpret maps, plans, and survey information to support accurate fieldwork.
• Record clear, organized field notes and measurements with guidance from the Crew Chief.
• Load, unload, organize, and care for survey equipment and supplies.
• Help keep equipment, tools, and vehicles clean and ready for use.
• Follow safe work practices and company procedures on every assignment

What You Bring to SAM

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous industry experience preferred.
• Comfort using technology and a willingness to learn new equipment and software.
• Attention to detail and the ability to follow directions and communicate effectively with your crew.
• Willingness to work outdoors year‑round in varying weather conditions and environments.
• Availability to travel and stay overnight for project assignments as needed.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet company MVR standards, clean background check and drug screening

Our Perks

• Health and Wellness Benefits: BlueCross BlueShield health insurance coverage begins the month after your hire date, with dental plans available and free vision coverage 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 $34.00/per hour

Salary Minimum

USD $22.00/per hour