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- Tasks: Join us as a Survey Technician & Instrument Operator, handling field and office duties for exciting engineering projects.
- Company: Prudent Engineering transforms infrastructure with passion, serving clients across New York State and Pennsylvania.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, medical benefits, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing team making a real impact on infrastructure while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: An associate's degree in surveying or related field preferred; 1+ year experience in land surveying required.
- Other info: Work outdoors in all weather; travel may be required.
Position Overview:
Prudent Engineering is seeking a well-rounded Survey Technician & Instrument Operator to support our NYSDOT Design Survey work. The successful candidate will perform both field and office duties, working closely with Party Chiefs, Licensed Land Surveyors, and CAD staff to complete highway, bridge, dam, and culvert surveys accurately and efficiently. This position can be based in Syracuse, Rochester, or Binghamton.
What you\’ll be able to do:
Field Responsibilities:
- Operate survey instruments including Trimble robotic total stations, Trimble R12i RTK GPS/GNSS, digital levels, and Leica 3D laser scanners (RTC360 & P50).
- Collect accurate field data for boundaries, topographic features, and construction layout using Trimble data collectors and field software.
- Assist with static GPS sessions, level runs, and control point establishment.
- Maintain clear, accurate survey field notes and records.
Office Responsibilities:
- Process and adjust field data using CAD software (MicroStation V8, InRoads, Trimble Business Center, Carlson Survey, NGS OPUS).
- Prepare maps, drawings, and 3D surface models based on field-collected data using MicroStation and Inroads or newer versions.
- Perform pre-calculations for layout and staking operations.
- Optionally register and integrate LiDAR point clouds into deliverables.
The minimum qualifications we seek:
- An associate\’s degree in surveying, civil technology, or a related field is preferred.
- 1+ year of experience in land surveying (field or office) required.
- Proficiency or willingness to train in Trimble Access, Trimble equipment, and MicroStation.
- Knowledge of survey principles, field practices, and CAD drafting.
- The ability to interpret survey plans, field notes, and legal descriptions.
- Strong communication and team collaboration skills.
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, with some overnight travel.
What you’ll receive in return:
- Salary Range: $21.65–$28.85/hour*
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off plus holidays.
- Growth and advancement opportunities within a high-performing team.
Prudent Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
*Actual compensation may vary based on work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications, and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills.
About the Firm:
Our mission: Transforming infrastructure for the next generation with passion and kindness.
We provide quality, cost-effective engineering services to state and local governments and private-sector clients across New York State and Pennsylvania. Our project portfolio features experience in bridge, highway, and structural design; condition and safety inspection; civil and site engineering support; construction inspection and administration; survey and mapping; and hydrographic services.
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Survey Technician & Instrument Operator employer: Prudent Engineering, LLP
Contact Detail:
Prudent Engineering, LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Survey Technician & Instrument Operator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific survey instruments mentioned in the job description, such as Trimble robotic total stations and Leica 3D laser scanners. If you have access to these tools, practice using them to build your confidence and demonstrate your hands-on experience during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the surveying field, especially those who work with NYSDOT or similar organisations. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture at Prudent Engineering.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your CAD skills, particularly with MicroStation and InRoads. Consider taking a short course or watching tutorials online to enhance your proficiency, as this will be a key part of your role and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in land surveying during the interview. Think of specific examples where you successfully collaborated with a team or solved a problem in the field, as this will showcase your communication skills and ability to work under varying conditions.
We think you need these skills to ace Survey Technician & Instrument Operator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Survey Technician & Instrument Operator position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any relevant experience you have in land surveying, particularly with the specific tools mentioned like Trimble robotic total stations and CAD software. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your skills.
Showcase Technical Skills: Make sure to detail your proficiency with survey instruments and software in your application. If you have experience with Trimble Access or MicroStation, highlight this prominently as it is crucial for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention how your values align with Prudent Engineering's mission of transforming infrastructure with passion and kindness.
How to prepare for a job interview at Prudent Engineering, LLP
✨Know Your Equipment
Familiarise yourself with the survey instruments mentioned in the job description, such as Trimble robotic total stations and Leica 3D laser scanners. Being able to discuss your experience or knowledge of these tools will show your technical competence.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Highlight your ability to work closely with Party Chiefs, Licensed Land Surveyors, and CAD staff. Prepare examples of past experiences where you successfully collaborated with a team to complete projects efficiently.
✨Showcase Your CAD Skills
Since processing field data using CAD software is a key responsibility, be ready to discuss your proficiency in MicroStation or similar software. If you have any relevant projects, mention them to illustrate your capabilities.
✨Prepare for Field Scenarios
Expect questions about outdoor work and how you handle various weather conditions. Share your willingness to work in different environments and any previous experiences that demonstrate your adaptability and commitment.
