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Hydrographic Survey Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McKim & Creed

Hydrographic Technician III

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$31K - $40K/yr

OVERVIEW : The Hydrographic Technician III is an expert Hydrographic Survey field crew member ... Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color ...

McKim & Creed

Hydrographic Technician III

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$31K - $40K/yr

OVERVIEW : The Hydrographic Technician III is an expert Hydrographic Survey field crew member ... Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color ...

McKim & Creed

Hydrographic Technician II

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$31K - $40K/yr

Plan and budget survey projects. * Communicate with clients; report on projects. * Support data ... Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color ...

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How much do hydrographic survey contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrographic survey contractor in the United States is $31.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydrographic survey contractor?

Hydrographic survey contractors are professionals or companies that specialize in mapping and analyzing bodies of water, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. They use specialized equipment to measure and describe underwater features, water depth, tides, and the seafloor's physical characteristics. Their work is essential for safe navigation, construction projects, dredging operations, and environmental monitoring. Hydrographic survey contractors often collaborate with government agencies, shipping companies, and engineering firms to provide accurate and up-to-date hydrographic data.

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

To thrive as a Hydrographic Survey Contractor, you need a solid background in geospatial science, marine surveying, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in hydrography, geomatics, or a related field. Proficiency with specialized survey equipment such as multibeam echosounders, GPS systems, and hydrographic data processing software (e.g., HYPACK or CARIS) is crucial, as are certifications like IHO Cat A or B. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate mapping, safe navigation, and successful project outcomes in marine and offshore environments.

What are some common challenges faced by hydrographic survey contractors when working in the field?

Hydrographic Survey Contractors often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, rough sea conditions, and equipment malfunctions that can impact the accuracy and efficiency of data collection. Coordinating with vessel crews and other survey professionals is essential to address these issues and ensure safety standards are met. Additionally, adapting to new survey technologies and software while meeting project deadlines requires strong problem-solving skills and flexibility.

What are popular job titles related to Hydrographic Survey Contractor jobs?

For Hydrographic Survey Contractor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hydrographic Survey Contractor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,602 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Hydrographic Surveyor

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

Continental Heavy Civil Corp.
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Continental Heavy Civil Corp.external

Full-time

Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 15 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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