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Hydrographic Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Hydrographic Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$45.3K

$109.6K

$178.7K

How much do hydrographic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrographic engineer in Chicago, IL is $109,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Hydrographic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrographic Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,593 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Survey Field Technician

DLZ Corporation

Chesterton, IN

$21 - $58.45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview

Shape the Future with DLZ!

At DLZ Corporation, we don’t just design infrastructure—we create solutions that improve communities and empower careers. As a nationally recognized, award-winning multidisciplinary firm, we deliver engineering and architectural design services, construction management, surveying, right-of-way acquisition, and materials testing across the Midwest.

Join a team where innovation meets collaboration, and your expertise drives meaningful impact.


Responsibilities

DLZ is looking for dependable individuals to fill various Field Surveying opportunities! Depending on when you apply DLZ's Industrial Group has positions available in Burns Harbor, IN, Chicago, IL , and/or Joliet, IL.

Job Requirements:

  • High School graduate with a minimum of one (1) year to five (5) years relevant experience, ten (10) years relevant experience preferred.
  • Experience with Total Stations, Robotic Total Stations, GPS, and Data Collectors (Trimble equipment experience preferred)
  • Valid driver’s license is mandatory including an insurable driving record
  • Ability to work overtime
  • Dependability!
  • Availability to work out-of-town for short or longer durations is a plus.
  • Perform all work in a safe and responsible manner, in accordance with the Health and Safety Plan
  • Possess aptitude to act as a positive representative of the company and its core values

Experience in the following is preferred, but not required:

    • Work experience in heavy industrial and refinery operations
    • Ability to climb and comfort with heights is preferred
    • Ability to travel
    • Work experience in construction layout/staking
    • Work experience in boundary/topographic surveying
    • Industrial alignment and surveying background experience
    • Work experience in heavy industrial and refinery operations

Experience in any of the following is a plus:

    • Experience with Optical Tooling (T1, T2, precise level, jig transit)
    • Experience with Laser Trackers (Faro equipment experience is preferred)
    • Experience with Laser Scanners
    • Experience with Hydrographic Surveying
    • Experience with Drones (UAS’s)

Compensation is commensurate with experience, premium pay as appropriate.


Qualifications

Investing in Your Future:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and career growth:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts & health savings account
  • 401(k) options (Traditional and Roth)
  • Paid parental leave
  • Life & AD&D insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Wellness program with reimbursement benefits
  • For union positions, please visit Union Benefits and here for union pension information Union Pension.

Our Commitment to Inclusion:

At DLZ, diversity isn’t just a policy — it’s a priority. We foster an environment where every individual is respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspective. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications, in full compliance with all applicable laws.

DLZ logo

About DLZ

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1946

View All DLZ Jobs