Land Survey Instrument Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Instrument Operator (Survey Crew / Crew Chief Track) Overview

We are seeking a skilled Instrument Operator who takes pride in precision, technology, and fieldwork to join our Wilmington, NC team. In this role, you’ll be a key driver of field data collection—operating advanced survey equipment, supporting a two-person crew, and playing a critical role in delivering accurate, high-quality survey results across a variety of projects along the North Carolina coast and throughout the Southeast.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, mastering survey technology, and growing into a leadership role such as Crew Chief.

• Operate total stations, GPS equipment, data collectors, and levels to gather precise field data on a wide range of survey projects
• Serve as the technical backbone of a two-person field crew , ensuring measurements are accurate, consistent, and reliable
• Assist with daily field operations , including setup, calibration, and troubleshooting of survey instrumentation
• Collect, record, and verify data for topographic surveys, construction staking, boundary surveys, and utility work
• Perform field calculations and quality checks to ensure accuracy before submitting data to the office
• Work closely with the Crew Chief to plan efficient field workflows and meet project timelines
• Maintain and care for survey equipment and vehicles, ensuring everything is calibrated, functional, and field-ready
• Keep detailed field notes, sketches, and digital records that clearly document survey activities
• Collaborate with office staff and engineers to ensure smooth data transfer and project execution
• Follow and uphold all safety standards and procedures in dynamic outdoor environments

• 2+ years of experience as an Instrument Operator (or similar field role in land surveying)
• Hands-on experience with total stations, GPS systems, and data collectors
• Strong attention to detail—you care about getting measurements right the first time
• A technical, process-driven mindset with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and field challenges
• Comfort working outdoors in varying conditions and on diverse job sites
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a small, high-performing crew
• Strong communication skills and a team-first attitude
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Willingness to travel (up to ~60%) with occasional overnight stays

• Exposure to construction staking, ALTA surveys, utility locating, or topographic surveys
• Familiarity with coastal, hydrographic, or beach nourishment projects
• Experience working with or exporting data to Civil 3D or similar platforms
• Interest in growing into a Crew Chief or leadership role

• Work with modern survey technology on diverse, high-impact projects
• Gain experience across coastal, transportation, and land development projects
• Clear path for advancement into Crew Chief leadership
• Be part of a team that values precision, efficiency, and professional growth
• Enjoy a mix of independent fieldwork and collaborative project support

• Based in Wilmington, NC , with fieldwork across NC, SC, and VA
• Frequent fieldwork in coastal, construction, and transportation environments
• Exposure to a variety of terrain and weather conditions
• Travel opportunities (up to ~60%), with company-supported expenses

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wilmington, NC.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a hybrid position in Wilmington,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.