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Hydrographic Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Cartographic Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

From veteran leadership to cleared engineers, our people understand both the technology and the ... The ability to analyze imagery and non-imagery sources for NGA hydrographic products and databases

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic ... A strong background in marine science, information technology, or mechanical engineering is ...

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic ... A strong background in marine science, information technology, or mechanical engineering is ...

GIS Specialist II

MD · On-site

$65K/yr

Tasks for NBS OPS support include: * Assist with processing, reviewing, and qualifying hydrographic ... Programming experience in Python. * Analyzing, planning, acquiring, integrating, and disseminating ...

Tasks for NBS OPS support include: Assist with processing, reviewing, and qualifying hydrographic ... Programming experience in Python. Analyzing, planning, acquiring, integrating, and disseminating ...

New

GIS Engineer (SME)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$147K - $245K/yr

Design, analyze and develop geo-spatial solutions and product specifications for infrastructure, hydrographic and physiographic features for global geo-spatial images and vector products * Performs ...

Cartographic Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

From veteran leadership to cleared engineers, our people understand both the technology and the ... Ability to analyze imagery and non-imagery source data for hydrographic products and databases.

Cartographic Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

From veteran leadership to cleared engineers, our people understand both the technology and the ... Ability to analyze imagery and non-imagery source data for hydrographic products and databases.

Showing results 21-35

Hydrographic Engineer information

What is a hydrographic engineer?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydrographic engineer?

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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Hydrographic Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Hydrographic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Hydrographic Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Geoscientist Project Management

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Hanover, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

377th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

OTECH presently carries out a range of survey projects within the fields of seafloor mapping, geophysical and geotechnical surveys, and hydrographic surveys. Typical projects range from deep ocean to coastal, encompassing both site characterization and route surveys.  Projects are fully integrated hydrographic, geophysical, and oceanographic investigations. Surveys are carried out using AUV, ASV, Conventional, and Remote Sensing technologies. This position requires a highly-qualified and credentialed Sr. Geoscientist to direct OTECH's current technical program for survey data management, interpretation, and reporting. In addition to Project Management duties, responsibilities will include supporting the Program Manager(s) as a Survey Subject Matter Expert (SME) working with stakeholders directly and through participation in high-level Program Survey Working Group meetings. 

Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer: 
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
Oceaneering Aerospace and Defense Technologies (AdTech) delivers solutions that enable humans to work safely and effectively in harsh environments - from underwater to the outer reaches of space. Our innovative solutions support the development and application of practical, cost-effective systems that meet our customers' challenges - from routine to extreme. Our experience and expertise across multiple industries uniquely positions us as a leader in the government, space, and maritime services markets. Our products and services meet the rigorous demands of the complex environments in which they operate, delivering results without compromising safety or reliability.

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in marine geology, geophysics, or related field.
  • Staff or Senior Geoscientist with a minimum combined five years of experience working in a range of fields including but not limited to marine geophysics, geology, hydrography, and data management/analytics.
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully manage/execute complex marine survey projects inclusive of geophysical, hydrographic, geotechnical, and oceanographic components.
  • Has demonstrated excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Capability to interface with a variety of customers for project execution, obtaining follow-on work, and developing new business.
  • Demonstrates well-developed leadership qualities.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • A current TS-SCI clearance or the ability and desire to obtain a TS-SCI clearance depending on the project or operation supported.  Current TS-SCI clearance preferred.
  • Knowledge of confidentiality rules, procedures, and information exchange agreements to protect information from unauthorized disclosure.
  • Skill to maintain a high level of security and confidentiality of information.

DESIRED

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual should have complete knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel.
  • Working knowledge of ESRI ArcGIS, Global Mapper, or equivalent mapping programs is preferred.
  • Proficiency with a variety of field concepts, practices, procedures and equipment operations such as GPS/GNSS, Side Scan Sonars, Multibeam, Subbottom profiler and Magnetometer systems, shallow geotechnical technologies such as Cone Penetrometer Testing, Vibracore, and Gravity coring.
  • Familiarity/experience with survey processing software such as Qimera/QINSy, CARIS, Sonarwiz, Edgetech Discover, Fledermaus, Hypack, etc.

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.

  • Assist Program Manager(s) in the development of strategic partners to support global operations.
  • Assist Program Manager(s) in development of market strategies and business plans.
  • Subject Matter Expert (SME) within the field of marine geophysical surveys, including Conventional, AUV, ASV, and Remote Sensing technologies.
  • Advise, consult and/or counsel contacts and customers as necessary to gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas and actions.
  • Receive and assist in the evaluation of tenders, bids, and proposals.
  • Assist Program Manager(s) to develop scope of work, prepare budgets and detailed plan of work schedules, and prepare full technical proposals.
  • Assist Program Manager(s) in developing business between/across Oceaneering business lines.
  • Co-ordinate, direct and supervise operations.
  • Distributes and delegates work assignments.
  • Formulating methods and processes to perform program goals in the most efficient and productive manner.  Position requires frequent application of original and independent thinking in developing methods, products or systems.
  • Ensure personnel's understanding of client's needs; maintain liaison with client's key personnel.
  • Consult with clients on a regular basis to ensure projects are handled correctly.
  • Implement QA and QC procedures for all projects in consultation with Department Managers.
  • Compile and initiate safety related documents and operational issues.
  • Some travel may be required.

ADDITIONAL

  • Additional duties as assigned.

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