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Hydrographic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prudent Engineering

Hydrographic Party Chief

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Prudent Engineering is seeking a highly motivated Hydrographic Party Chief to work out of our ... Syracuse, NY office. In this role, you will lead a team of surveyors, ensuring the safe, efficient ...

Prudent Engineering

Hydrographic Party Chief

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Prudent Engineering is seeking a highly motivated Hydrographic Party Chief to work out of our ... Syracuse, NY office. In this role, you will lead a team of surveyors, ensuring the safe, efficient ...

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Hydrographic Engineer information

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$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do hydrographic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrographic engineer in the United States is $106,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hydrographic engineer do?

A hydrographic engineer specializes in mapping and analyzing underwater terrain and water bodies using sonar, GPS, and other surveying tools. They design and implement surveys to support navigation, construction, and environmental projects, often working in marine or freshwater environments and requiring knowledge of oceanography and engineering standards.

What is the difference between Hydrographic Engineer vs Marine Surveyor?

AspectHydrographic EngineerMarine Surveyor
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in hydrography or geospatial dataEngineering or maritime degree, certifications in survey methods
Work EnvironmentOffshore and coastal environments, using sonar and GIS toolsShipboard and port environments, inspecting vessels and maritime structures
Industry UsageHydrographic surveys, navigation safety, offshore constructionVessel condition, port assessments, maritime compliance

Hydrographic Engineers focus on mapping underwater features and supporting navigation safety, often working offshore with specialized equipment. Marine Surveyors assess vessels and maritime structures, primarily working on ships or port sites. While both roles require technical certifications and operate in maritime environments, their core responsibilities differ significantly, making them distinct career paths within the maritime industry.

How much do hydrographic surveyors make in the US?

Hydrographic surveyors in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, with experienced professionals and those working in specialized environments earning higher salaries. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, and the role often requires proficiency with surveying tools and GIS software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydrographic Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydrographic Engineer, you need a solid background in geospatial sciences, oceanography, and surveying, typically supported by a degree in hydrography or a related field. Proficiency with hydrographic survey equipment, GIS software, and data analysis tools is essential, as are certifications such as IHO Cat A or B. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe navigation, and effective project delivery in complex marine environments.

What kind of surveyor makes the most money?

Hydrographic engineers, a specialized type of surveyor, tend to earn higher salaries due to their expertise in underwater mapping, marine navigation, and the use of advanced sonar and GIS tools. Salaries increase with experience, certifications, and working in offshore or remote environments, where demand and risk are higher.

What are some common challenges faced by Hydrographic Engineers when working in the field?

Hydrographic Engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and navigating remote or difficult-to-access survey sites. Working at sea or along coastlines can require long hours and adaptability to rapidly changing environments. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, especially when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the accuracy and safety of survey operations.

What are hydrographic engineers?

Hydrographic engineers are professionals who specialize in mapping and analyzing bodies of water, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. They use advanced technologies like sonar, GPS, and GIS to collect and interpret data about underwater terrain, water depth, and features. Their work is essential for navigation safety, construction projects, environmental monitoring, and resource exploration. Hydrographic engineers often collaborate with government agencies, maritime companies, and environmental organizations to support safe and sustainable use of aquatic environments.

How much does a hydrographer get paid?

Hydrographic engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or advanced certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in offshore or government roles.
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Hydrographic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrographic Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,386 per year, or $51.1 per hour.
Hydrographic Survey Technician

Hydrographic Survey Technician

Prudent Engineering

Syracuse, NY • On-site

$21.65 - $28.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About the Firm:

Our mission: Transforming Infrastructure with Passion and Kindness.

We provide quality, cost-effective engineering services to state and local governments and private-sector clients across New York State and Pennsylvania. Our project portfolio features experience in bridge, highway, and structural design; condition and safety inspection; civil and site engineering support; construction inspection and administration; survey and mapping; and hydrographic services.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Prudent Engineering is seeking a Hydrographic Survey Technician to work out of our Syracuse office. 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/reports.

What you'll be able to do:

  • Assist in day-to-day operations on a Hydrographic Survey Team
  • Be able to run a multi beam or single beam Hydrographic Survey
  • Be able to process Hydrographic data and create deliverables with little supervision
  • Be able to trailer a boat and launch/recover a boat.

    The minimum requirements we seek:

    • Degree strongly desired, preferably in Survey, Geomatics, or GIS.
    • Strong written and verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.
    • Work well in a team environment.
    • Organizational, effective time management and prioritization skills are important to the need to work to deadlines.
    • Ability to travel up to 70% of the time. Ability to ride on a boat for up to 10 hours a day.
    • Ability to legally work in the United States.
    • Ability to maintain a valid driver's license.

    In addition, the candidate will have the following desired skills/software capabilities:

    • HYPACK Survey
    • SonarWiz
    • AutoCAD
    • MicroStation
    • RTK GPS
    • Static GPS
    • Robotic Total Station
    • Boat Operator
    • Boat maintenance
    • Discover Side Scan
    • Discover Sub-bottom


    What you'll receive in return:

    • An hourly rate of between $21.65 to $28.85.* Plus, prevailing wage rates when applicable.
    • Medical, dental, vision.
    • 401K with company match.
    • PTO plus paid holidays.
    • Unlimited opportunities to advance your career.

    Prudent Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    *Actual compensation may vary based on work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications, and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills.