hydrographic surveying technician
Snapshot
Dive into a fascinating career mapping the underwater world! As a hydrographic surveying technician, you'll play a vital role in charting coastlines, waterways, and seabeds, contributing to safe navigation and valuable scientific research.
Hydrographic surveying technicians work alongside hydrographic surveyors in marine environments, using specialized equipment to gather data about underwater terrain and features. This work is essential for creating accurate nautical charts, supporting coastal engineering projects, and conducting marine research. You’ll be involved in all stages of the surveying process, from equipment setup to data analysis and reporting.
- • Assist in the installation, operation, and maintenance of hydrographic and surveying equipment, such as multibeam echosounders, side-scan sonars, and GPS systems.
- • Collect and process data related to underwater topography, bathymetry, and seabed characteristics.
- • Assist in data analysis and quality control, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of survey results.
Dive into a fascinating career mapping the underwater world! As a hydrographic surveying technician, you'll play a vital role in charting coastlines, waterways, and seabeds, contributing to safe navigation and valuable scientific research.
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What people in this role usually do
Energy & Natural Resources
A typical day as a hydrographic surveying technician
09 09:00 · Morning assist hydrographic surveys
10 10:30 · Mid-morning conduct underwater surveys
12 12:00 · Midday operate surveying instruments
14 14:00 · Afternoon adjust surveying equipment
15 15:30 · Late afternoon document survey operations
17 17:00 · Wrap-up record survey data
Task order is illustrative. Individual days vary.
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bathymetry
The scientific discipline that studies underwater topography.
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cartography
The study of interpreting the elements depicted in maps, the measures and technical specifications.
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hydrography
The scientific discipline that studies and measures the physical features of bodies of water such as oceans, lakes and rivers. It studies the current situation for navigational purposes and predicts change over time.
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surveying methods
The fundamental principles and procedures of surveying applied to civil engineering, including remote sensing methods, and related equipment.
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topography
Graphic representation of the surface features of a place or region on a map indicating their relative positions and elevations.
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geographic information systems
The tools involved in geographical mapping and positioning, such as GPS (global positioning systems), GIS (geographical information systems), and RS (remote sensing).
- geodesy
- geomatics
- mathematics
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record survey data
Gather and process descriptive data by using documents such as sketches, drawings and notes.
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prepare surveying report
Write a survey report containing information on property boundaries, the height and depth of the terrain, etc..
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operate surveying instruments
Operate and adjust measuring instruments such as theodolites and prisms, and other electronic distance-measuring tools.
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adjust surveying equipment
Ensure accuracy of measurement by adjusting surveying equipment.
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collect mapping data
Collect and conserve mapping resources and mapping data.
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document survey operations
Complete and file all required administrative, operational and technical documents related to a survey operation.
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perform surveying calculations
Perform calculations and gather technical data in order to determine earth curvature corrections, traverse adjustments and closures, level runs, azimuths, marker placements, etc.
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write work-related reports
Compose work-related reports that support effective relationship management and a high standard of documentation and record keeping. Write and present results and conclusions in a clear and intelligible way so they are comprehensible to a non-expert audience.
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conduct underwater surveys
Conduct subaquatic surveys to measure and map the underwater topography and morphology of bodies of water in order to aid the planning of aquaculture projects, the construction of marine constructions, and the exploration of natural resources.
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assist hydrographic surveys
Assist in the installation and deployment of hydrographic surveying equipment.
Growth Pathways & Similar Roles
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Where does hydrographic surveying technician fit?
Similarity scores based on skill overlap from ESCO data.
Frequently asked questions
- What kind of education or training is typically required to become a hydrographic surveying technician?
- While a formal degree isn’t always mandatory, a diploma or associate’s degree in surveying, geomatics, oceanography, or a related field is highly beneficial. Specific training in hydrographic surveying techniques and equipment operation is often provided on the job or through specialized courses.
- What are some of the working conditions like for a hydrographic surveying technician?
- The work often takes place on vessels, both large and small, and can involve extended periods at sea. Conditions can vary depending on the location and weather, requiring adaptability and a tolerance for being away from land. Some work may also be conducted onshore, processing data and preparing reports.
- What skills are important for success in this role?
- Strong mathematical and technical skills are essential, as is the ability to operate and troubleshoot complex equipment. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and good communication skills are also crucial for effective collaboration with surveyors and other team members.