Gps Technician / Machine Control Specialist

Great Pay! Great Benefits! Strong Teams! Knife River is a PEOPLE-first company. Our teams are the foundation of our success, and we're committed to providing the training, tools and support to do great work and go home safely at the end of each day. Join a team that looks out for one another and supports career growth from day one.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

This position is responsible for setting up GPS equipment on construction sites, reading the data, and reporting findings. Assists equipment operators on highway, parking lot and civil sitework projects.

COMPENSATION:

Starting wages at $28 to $32 per hour. Full Time + Benefits.

DUTIES AND/OR RESPONSIBILITIES (summary of components that make up the job)

1. Set up GPS base/rover for outdoor construction project sites
2. Set up Total Station
3. Set up, calibrate, and maintain GPS and laser control systems on equipment such as dozers, graders, and excavators.
4. Build, upload, and verify 3D models for use in machine control and grade management systems.
5. Troubleshoot and resolve GPS, radio, and sensor issues in the field or shop.
6. Coordinate with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure models match project design data.
7. Manage data transfers between office and field systems (including file conversions, uploads, and backups).
8. Perform field checks to verify grade accuracy and as-built conditions.
9. Maintain an organized inventory of control equipment, base stations, and rover units.
10. Ensure all machine control systems are updated with the latest firmware and project files.
11. Ensure DOT, MSHA, OSHA, EPA, DNR, safety and environmental regulation compliance.
12. Always work safely and take action to prevent any and all unsafe actions, processes, and behaviors.
13. Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (types and extent of knowledge, skills or abilities an incumbent must possess to complete the job responsibilities satisfactorily)

1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
2. Strong organizational skills.
3. Knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
4. Able to work independently and under time constraints.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS (minimum educational, experience, or other relevant job requirements)

1. Familiarity with GPS Base/rover set up and functionality
2. Knowledge of Total Station setup and functionality
3. Valid drivers license with acceptable driving record
4. Ability to work flexible shifts, including overtime, possible nights and some Saturdays

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS (preferred requirements i.e. certifications, software use, etc.)

1. 1-2 years’ experience with GPS equipment and modeling
2. Familiarity with construction plan reading
3. 2 years technical school or construction industry experience

BENEFITS:

1. Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
2. Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
3. 401(k) with Company Match
4. Profit Sharing
5. Paid Time Off
6. Paid Sick Time 
7. 8 Paid Holidays
8. Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance
9. Short-term Disability
10. Employee Assistance Program
11. Years of Service Recognition
12. Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Dependents
13. Critical Illness Plan
14. Accident Coverage Plan
15. Hospital Indemnity

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal laws.

Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.

All applications are submitted online. If you are having issues completing the application, please come to the office for assistance.