Job Title: Surveyor / RTS Layout Specialist
Job Description
This role performs precision field layout of building foundations, structural framing, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) pathways using robotic total station (RTS) equipment on active construction sites. The RTS Layout Specialist translates coordinated 3D BIM/VDC model data into accurate physical control points and benchmarks, serving as the critical link between virtual design coordination and real-world installation. The position works closely with superintendents, trade foremen, and the VDC team to sequence layout activities ahead of construction, verify site conditions, and support multiple concurrent projects across Plumbing, HVAC, Fire Protection, and Sheet Metal disciplines.
Responsibilities
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Operate robotic total station equipment to establish precise field layout points for building foundations, structural framing, and MEP pathways while maintaining accuracy within specified project tolerances.
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Import and interpret coordinated 3D BIM/VDC models to generate layout point data for daily field staking activities.
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Coordinate daily with field superintendents and trade foremen to plan and sequence layout work ahead of installation crews across multiple concurrent jobsites.
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Verify existing site conditions and utility locations before establishing layout points and promptly report any discrepancies between model data and field conditions to the VDC Manager.
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Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot robotic total station and related survey equipment according to manufacturer specifications on a scheduled basis.
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Document as-built layout data and submit clear, timely daily field reports to the VDC department for record retention and model reconciliation.
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Review clash detection reports and collaborate with VDC Specialists to incorporate model updates prior to executing field layout.
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Communicate layout discrepancies, requests for information (RFIs), and field condition conflicts to project management within the same work shift in which they are identified.
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Train field crews at the start of each project phase on the interpretation of layout markings, benchmarks, and control points.
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Support concurrent job sites across Plumbing, HVAC, Fire Protection, and Sheet Metal divisions based on project schedule demands.
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Inspect completed installations against established layout control points to verify dimensional accuracy prior to rough-in closeout.
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Maintain chain-of-custody and accuracy records for all control points and benchmarks established on each site.
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Lift, transport, and set up layout equipment safely on uneven jobsite terrain while following applicable safety standards.
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Work collaboratively with project teams to ensure constructability, sequencing, and layout tolerances align with project requirements.
Essential Skills
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Comprehensive knowledge of robotic total station operation, setup, and calibration procedures.
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Thorough knowledge of BIM/VDC model coordination processes and constructability review.
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Thorough understanding of MEP system layout requirements, sequencing, and installation tolerances.
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General knowledge of civil, structural, and MEP construction drawings and specifications.
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General knowledge of OSHA jobsite safety standards applicable to field layout activities.
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Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, or comparable 3D modeling and coordination software for data export and field reference.
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Working knowledge of basic surveying principles, including benchmarks, control points, and elevation certificates.
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Minimum 3 years of experience operating a robotic total station or comparable survey-grade layout equipment.
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High school diploma or GED.
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Ability to regularly lift and carry layout equipment up to 50 pounds.
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Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel on uneven jobsite terrain for extended periods.
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Ability to occasionally climb ladders and scaffolding and work at heights up to 20 feet.
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Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and temperature conditions.
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Ability to occasionally enter confined spaces to verify layout points.
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Visual acuity sufficient to read drawings, instrument displays, and layout markings at varying distances.
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OSHA 10-hour construction safety certification.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
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Associate degree or technical certificate in surveying, construction technology, or a related field.
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Minimum 2 years of experience in commercial construction or mechanical contracting.
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OSHA 30-hour construction safety certification.
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Manufacturer-specific robotic total station certification (such as Trimble or Topcon) or comparable RTS certification.
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Experience working with Plumbing, HVAC, Fire Protection, and Sheet Metal systems.
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Familiarity with clash detection processes within BIM/VDC environments.
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Strong communication skills for coordinating with superintendents, trade foremen, VDC specialists, and project management.
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Ability to train field crews on layout markings, benchmarks, and control points.
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Experience traveling between multiple local and regional jobsites.
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Comfort working with survey and construction technologies, including Trimble and Topcon equipment.
Work Environment
Work is performed primarily in the field (approximately 90 percent) and partially in the office (approximately 10 percent). The primary setting is active new construction jobsites, with occasional work in occupied buildings during renovation projects. The role involves frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions, temperature extremes, ambient jobsite noise, and dust. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, high-visibility vest, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection, is required as jobsite conditions warrant. Travel is local and regional to active jobsites, estimated at 90 to 100 percent of scheduled work time, with most sites located within about an hour of the home base. A small number of overnight stays may occur depending on project needs. The environment is fast-paced, hands-on, and highly collaborative, with close coordination among field crews, superintendents, and VDC staff to ensure accurate, efficient, and safe layout and installation.
Please direct any questions or inquiries to '[email protected]'
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Sioux Falls, SD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Sioux Falls,SD.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 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 [email protected] 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.
