Hydrographic surveyor : Job description

A hydrographic surveyor specialises in precise positioning, data acquisition and processing in marine environments.

The role involves measuring and mapping the world's underwater surfaces and studying the morphology (construction) of the seabed. The information is used in:

• the production of charts and related information for navigation;
• dredging;
• locating offshore resources (oil, gas, aggregates);
• planning dock installations.

Hydrographic surveyors are expected to work in a wide range of differing situations and applications: from inland waters and rivers, to ports and oceans. The work may be onshore or offshore, depending on your area of specialism.

The role also demands an understanding of and consideration for environmental issues.

Typical work activities

Typical activities include:

• using specialised technical software, global and some terrestrial positioning systems, sonars and echo sounders to provide data for the production of nautical charts and maps;
• using remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles to acquire data in deep oceans;
• using specialised technical software and geographical information systems (GIS) to manage the integration, processing and presentation of data to clients;
• dealing with clients, internally and externally, to provide tenders and results in appropriate formats;
• managing projects, both onshore and offshore, as vessel-based managers;
• producing reports;
• providing accurate and reliable information for other disciplines, such as: navigation; oil, gas and mineral resource exploration; dredging; coastal works; seabed telephone cables; environmental monitoring; aquaculture; marine wind farm development; oceanographic research; and bridge construction;
• working in a wide range of differing situations and applications: seabed mining; oil and gas exploration; the construction of ports; the provision of navigational charts; and the positioning of navigational aids;
• sourcing information on seabed type, water movements and waves;
• provision of data for oceanographic studies;
• for those working onshore, responding to technical queries from onshore engineering teams and problem-solving for colleagues working offshore;
• reviewing company procedures and software projects, and providing feedback on courses and in-house training;
• working as part of a team of technical specialists.