Instrument Operator A

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:

• Associate's Degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Engineering Technology, or equivalent field experience.
• 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

• 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.