Hydrographic Surveyor

POSITION: Hydrographic Surveyor

SUMMARY: A hydrographic surveyor specializes 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. 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 the specialist area. The role also demands an understanding of and consideration for environmental issues.

DUTIES/FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES: (Work assignments may vary depending on the office's needs and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the office manager.)

• Managing projects, both onshore and offshore, as vesselbased managers.
• Producing reports.
• Sourcing information on seabed type, water movements and waves.
• Provision of data for oceanographic studies.
• Using specialized technical software and equipment including satellite and terrestrial positioning systems, sonars, single and multibeam echo sounders, laser scanners and lidar equipped aircraft 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 specialized 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.
• For those working onshore, responding to technical queries from onshore engineering teams and problemsolving for colleagues working offshore.
• Providing accurate and reliable information for other disciplines, such as, navigation, dredging, coastal works, seabed telephone cables, environmental monitoring, aquaculture, marine wind farm development, oceanographic research, bridge construction, and oil, gas and mineral resource exploration.
• Working in a wide range of differing situations and applications including seabed mining, oil and gas exploration, the construction of ports, the provision of navigational charts, and the positioning of navigational aids.
• Reviewing company procedures and software projects and providing feedback on courses and inhouse training.
• Working as part of a team of technical specialists.
  
  

• A diploma or certificate from a technological institute for hydrological surveyors.
• An undergraduate degree in civil or survey engineering.
• An undergraduate or graduate degree in areas such as hydrography, geomatics, environmental science or geography.