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Hydrographic Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Woolpert

Hydrographic Survey Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

Position Overview Woolpert is hiring a Hydrographic Survey Specialist to join our dynamic ... Bachelor's degree in surveying, Geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology ...

U.S. Navy

ENGINEERING AIDE

Pomona, CA · On-site

Preparing hydrographic, topographic and triangulation drawings and maps * Computing the volume of ... As an Engineering Aide, you'll construct and repair a variety of structures in just about every ...

NV5

Senior Land Surveyor

Irvine, CA

We specialize in engineering design, asset management, and geospatial data analytics to support ... Experience in hydrographic surveying is a plus. * Experience with lidar data processing is a plus.

All JobsHydrographic Engineer JobsHydrographic Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Hydrographic Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$45.9K

$111K

$181K

How much do hydrographic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrographic engineer in Riverside, CA is $110,989.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $138,200.00 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.

What is the salary of a hydrographic officer?

The salary of a hydrographic engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages.

How much does a Hydrographic Surveyor make?

A Hydrographic Surveyor's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or advanced equipment knowledge can earn higher wages.

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 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 employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in offshore or government roles.
What are popular job titles related to Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Hydrographic Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Hydrographic Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Hydrographic Engineer job openings:
Hydrographic Engineer jobs near you
Hydrographic Survey Specialist

Hydrographic Survey Specialist

Woolpert

Irvine, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 hours ago

Woolpert Inc. rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

151st of 367 rated engineering

Job description

Position Overview

Woolpert is hiring a Hydrographic Survey Specialist to join our dynamic Hydrographic Survey Team in Southern California. This position reports to the Hydrographic Survey Team Leader and is responsible for surveys for private and public agencies throughout the United States with offices in California, Washington, Alaska and Texas. Ideal candidate will be Southern California based as majority of work will be located in Southern California. 

Candidates should expect approximately 100 days of travel throughout each year.

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.  Applicants must already possess work authorization in the country the job is located.

What You Will Do:

Field Tasks will include: 

  • Multibeam and Singlebeam Hydrographic Survey
  • GNSS Topographic Surveys
  • Terrestrial LiDAR Surveys
  • Survey Vessel Mobilization
  • GNSS & Optical Horizontal & Vertical Control Surveys
  • Candidates with small vessel and coastal waterways experience are preferred. 

Office Tasks will include: 

  • Multibeam and Singlebeam Data Processing
  • GNSS Static Control Network Processing and Adjustment
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Mobile & Static Terrestrial LiDAR Survey Processing (same 3d laser scan) 

What You Will Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree in surveying, Geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology, geography, spatial science, marine science or comparable field.
  • Self-motivated, quick learning, curious, resourceful, flexible individual with a common-sense approach to conducting business and workload management.
  • Interest and desire to work in a marine focused organization 

Preferred Experience and Qualifications:  

  • LSIT
  • Experience using Global Mapper
  • Experience using marine software (QINSy, CARIS,EIVA Beamworks)
  • Experience gathering GPS data with Trimble GPS hardware and software and data processing
  • Experience with AutoCAD or other CAD software, MS-Visio, and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom, InDesign).
  • Experience with LiDAR processing
  • Experience with 3D visualization 

Benefits You Will Love

Certified as a Great Place to Work, Woolpert is one of the fastest-growing architecture, engineering, and geospatial companies in the world. With over 75 offices and countless projects around the globe, you'll work on meaningful assignments that improve quality of life around the world. In addition to offering competitive pay, we provide employees with a robust set of unique benefits, including:

  • Freedom to Work program: Set your own schedule and location (as appropriate).
  • Principal program: Earn the opportunity to become an owner of the firm.
  • Flexible paid time off/vacation: Take time off when it makes sense for you and your team.
  • Career development: Explore a wide range of learning and growth opportunities within and across industries.
  • Health, life, vision, and dental insurance: Cover all your medical bases.
  • Paid sick time, retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, pet insurance, identity protection, technology stipend, employee assistance program, and more!

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