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Hydrographic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prudent Engineering

Hydrographic Party Chief

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

As a Hydrographer, your duties will include data QA/QC, equipment setup/calibration, trouble shooting, data acquisition, data processing, equipment maintenance, and production of final deliverables ...

Prudent Engineering

Hydrographic Party Chief

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

As a Hydrographer, your duties will include data QA/QC, equipment setup/calibration, trouble shooting, data acquisition, data processing, equipment maintenance, and production of final deliverables ...

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Hydrographic information

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$25K

$64.6K

$113K

How much do hydrographic jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrographic in the United States is $64,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do hydrographers do?

Hydrographers collect and analyze data about water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, to map underwater features and monitor water levels. They use tools like sonar, GPS, and GIS software to create accurate charts and support navigation, environmental studies, and resource management.

How much do hydrographers make in the US?

Hydrographers in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like maritime, environmental consulting, or government agencies.

How do you become a hydrographer?

To become a hydrographer, typically a bachelor's degree in oceanography, geology, surveying, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with hydrographic survey equipment, such as sonar and GPS, and obtaining certifications like the Hydrographic Surveyor Certification can improve job prospects. Some positions may also require knowledge of data analysis and environmental regulations.

What is a Hydrographic job?

A hydrographic job involves mapping and surveying bodies of water to measure depth, tides, currents, and underwater features. Hydrographers use specialized equipment such as sonar, GPS, and echo sounders to collect data for navigation, construction, environmental studies, and resource management. They work for government agencies, private firms, and research institutions to ensure safe maritime operations and coastal development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hydrographic position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydrographic, you need a solid understanding of hydrography, cartography, mathematics, and geography, typically supported by a relevant degree or technical training. Experience with hydrographic survey equipment (like multi-beam echo sounders and GPS systems), GIS software, and certifications such as IHO Cat A or B are often required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and clear communication help hydrographers manage fieldwork and reporting effectively. These abilities are crucial for collecting accurate marine or freshwater data, ensuring navigational safety, and supporting environmental and engineering projects.

How much does a hydrographer get paid?

Hydrographers typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in sectors like maritime, environmental, or defense.

What does a typical day look like for a Hydrographic professional?

A typical day for a Hydrographic professional involves a mix of fieldwork and office tasks. Field activities may include collecting data on water depth, seabed conditions, and underwater features using specialized survey equipment on boats or coastal sites. In the office, hydrographers process and analyze collected data, generate charts or maps, and prepare reports for clients or regulatory agencies. Collaboration with surveyors, engineers, and environmental scientists is common, as is the need to adapt to weather or site conditions. This dynamic balance of hands-on and technical work makes hydrographic roles both engaging and vital to marine and coastal projects.

More about Hydrographic jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydrographic jobs? Cities with the most Hydrographic job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrographic jobs? The most popular types of Hydrographic jobs are:
What states have the most Hydrographic jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydrographic jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydrographic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydrographic jobs are:
Hydrographic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrographic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,562 per year, or $31 per hour.
Hydrographic Surveyor

Hydrographic Surveyor

Continental Heavy Civil Corp.

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Full-time

Dental, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Hydrographic Surveyor to support field survey operations throughout Southeast Florida. This position is responsible for managing and performing hydrographic and land survey operations, overseeing survey vessel activities, maintaining survey equipment, coordinating field crews, and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

The ideal candidate is a self-motivated professional with strong leadership skills, extensive field surveying experience, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with project managers, clients, and field personnel.


Key Responsibilities

  • Report directly to the Assistant Project Manager and support successful project execution.
  • Perform hydrographic, topographic, boundary, right-of-way, control, construction, and special-purpose surveys.
  • Coordinate daily field operations, crew assignments, and project schedules.
  • Operate and manage survey vessels, equipment, vehicles, and field resources.
  • Conduct daily inspections to ensure survey equipment and materials are operational and properly maintained.
  • Operate hydrographic survey equipment, GPS/GNSS systems, total stations, and related survey instruments.
  • Collect, process, and manage survey data for project deliverables.
  • Perform field calculations and quality control checks, including level loop closures and traverse adjustments.
  • Prepare accurate field notes, survey records, maps, figures, and final deliverables.
  • Maintain professional communication with clients, contractors, project teams, and stakeholders.
  • Assist in expanding hydrographic surveying services and developing client relationships.
  • Ensure compliance with company safety policies, project specifications, and environmental regulations.
  • Participate in project planning meetings and provide technical survey support as needed.


Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3 years of surveying experience, preferably in hydrographic surveying.
  • Strong understanding of surveying principles, methods, and industry best practices.
  • Experience operating hydrographic survey equipment and small survey vessels.
  • Proficiency with HYPACK, AutoCAD, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.
  • Ability to read and interpret survey plans, construction drawings, specifications, and legal descriptions.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
  • Ability to make sound decisions and adapt to changing field conditions.
  • Valid driver's license with a safe driving record.
  • Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and following established safety procedures.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with hydrographic data processing and map production.
  • Experience working on dredging, navigation, coastal, marine, waterfront, or environmental projects.
  • Familiarity with RTK GPS/GNSS systems, multibeam or single-beam sonar systems, and other marine survey technologies.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (drone operations) is a plus.
  • Professional Surveyor and Mapper (PSM) license or ability to obtain licensure is a plus.


Physical & Work Environment Requirements

  • Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather and marine conditions.
  • Approximately 60% field work and 40% office/computer-based work.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis.
  • Ability to safely operate small watercraft and survey equipment.
  • Ability to work near or over water while utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Ability to perform work requiring close vision, distance vision, color vision, and depth perception.
  • Willingness to travel to project sites throughout Florida and work overtime as project schedules require.


Benefits

***Competitive Pay * Company Offered Insurance / Dental Plans * 401k Match Program * Opportunities to Travel * Exciting Newsworthy Projects * Many Other Benefits***

* No per diem or housing provided for this role.

CHC IS A DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER and Participates in the E-Verify Program

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