Instrument Operator

Position Summary

National Grid is looking for a qualified Instrument Operator A in our Syracuse, NY location. At the starting hourly rate of $47.23. We offer excellent benefits including medical, dental, life insurance, 401(k), vacation, tuition assistance and more. The Instrument Operator A works under the direction of a Survey Party Chief or Supervisor to support land, right-of-way, topographic, and construction surveys. This role is responsible for operating survey instruments, collecting accurate field data, and supporting digital data processing workflows to ensure high-quality survey deliverables for engineering, design, and construction projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Field Operations

• Set up, operate, and maintain survey equipment including robotic total stations, GNSS/GPS receivers, digital levels, and terrestrial laser scanners.
• Collect accurate horizontal and vertical survey data for boundary, topographic, right-of-way, as-built and construction stakeout surveys.
• Assist the Survey Party Chief with layout, measurements, and verification of survey control.
• Direct and assist survey crew members as needed during field operations.
• Maintain clear, legible electronic field notes, sketches, and metadata.
• Perform all work in accordance with company safety standards and required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Data Processing & Office Support

• Download, organize, and prepare survey data for office processing.
• Perform basic survey calculations and field quality checks.
• Support survey data processing and quality control using survey processing software, including Trimble Business Center (preferred) and Trimble RealWorks (preferred).
• Assist with point cloud registration and data validation as required.
• Prepare field deliverables and documentation for drafting, engineering, and design teams.

Equipment & Quality Control

• Perform routine cleaning, calibration checks, and care of survey equipment.
• Identify equipment issues and coordinate repairs or replacements.
• Follow established procedures to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and traceability.  

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as an instrument operator or in a related survey role.
• Experience operating modern survey equipment including robotic total stations, GNSS/GPS, and digital levels.
• Basic understanding of survey computations, coordinate systems, and field-to-office workflows.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions.
• Valid driver’s license required with a safe driving history that meets National Grid’s Safe Driver policy.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Associate’s Degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Engineering Technology, or equivalent field experience.
• Experience with Trimble Business Center for survey data processing.
• Experience with Trimble RealWorks or similar point cloud processing software.
• Familiarity with MicroStation or Bentley product workflows.
• Experience supporting LiDAR collection or scanning-based survey projects.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry survey equipment.
• Ability to work near roadways, construction sites, and active utility corridors.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required.

Salary:

• $47.23/Hr

Many of the terms and conditions of employment for this position are defined by a collective bargaining agreement that the Company has with a local union.  Newly hired employees are bound by the terms of the collective bargaining agreement as well as other agreements between the Company and the local union.

National Grid utilizes an assessment that evaluates the job qualifications/characteristics using AI or statistically based scoring.  For more information, please view NYC Local Law 144.

National Grid is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of protected class. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. National Grid maintains affirmative action programs for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

Our employment practices are designed to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly and with respect throughout the hiring process and during employment. National Grid complies with all applicable federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination and harassment, and we encourage a culture of respect for all.