Hydrographic surveyor : Entry requirements

Entrants to the profession usually have a degree in a surveying science. The following subjects may increase your chances:

• hydrographic surveying;
• ocean exploration;
• land surveying;
• marine sciences;
• geography/cartography;
• engineering/civil engineering;
• physical/mathematical/applied science;
• computer science/software engineering.

Entry is also possible via the Royal Navy (see Royal Navy Careers ), where hydrographic training is provided by the Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST) Hydrographic, Meteorological and Oceanographic (HM) School.

Increasingly, entrants are studying for BSc and MSc degrees in hydrography or related subjects. Ability in mathematics and computing is essential.

A postgraduate qualification in hydrographic surveying, hydrography or geomatics may be useful and is often necessary for graduates from non-relevant subjects. Masters courses are offered by the University of Plymouth and University College London (taught jointly with the Port of London Authority ).

Relevant experience through a sandwich placement or vacation work is recommended. Nautical, surveying or computing experience is highly valued by employers. It is also possible to qualify as a land surveyor and then acquire the skills needed to move into hydrographic surveying by taking a postgraduate diploma or Masters degree in hydrography.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• the ability to learn quickly;
• teamworking skills and the ability to work closely and get on with others in pressured situations;
• resourcefulness and resilience;
• the ability to adapt sensibly to changing circumstances;
• patience and a sense of humour;
• communication skills, cultural awareness and foreign language skills;
• conscientiousness and the ability to maintain concentration - carelessness or a lapse in concentration may have drastic consequences in terms of the overall quality or efficiency of a survey.

Knowledge of global positioning systems/navigation, geographic information systems, nautical studies and emergency procedures is useful. A driving licence is usually required.

Working over the summer or doing a placement will help you to get your foot in the door and may lead to full-time employment after graduation. Keep in touch with your academic department, since employers may approach your tutors directly. Attend employer presentations whilst at university and contact specialist recruitment consultancies regarding possible temporary and permanent vacancies.

Although recruitment is often through contacts with university departments and graduate fairs, speculative applications are worth considering. See The Hydrographic Society UK (THS UK) list of members for contact details. Use your personal network of previous employers or contacts made through work experience or project work.

Joining a relevant professional body, such as The Hydrographic Society UK, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) , the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (ImarEST) or the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES) as a student member is useful for making contacts and networking and will be evidence of your interest in the sector.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.