Hydrographic Survey Crew Chief

Overview

Lead hydrographic survey crew, manage equipment and data for marine mapping projects

Key Responsibilities

• hydrographic survey
• data processing
• equipment management
• qa/qc
• chart interpretation
• documentation

Tasks

-Direct and oversee a hydrographic survey crew conducting multi-beam, single-beam, side-scan sonar, and sub-bottom profiling surveys in support of coastal, riverine, and offshore projects -Interpret nautical charts, tide tables, and coastal data -Maintain detailed and accurate documentation for all phases of hydrographic survey work, including field logs, metadata, and equipment records -Manage the deployment, operation, and recovery of hydrographic survey equipment, vessels, and support systems -Assist with public and private records research related to project areas (e.g., permits, maritime boundaries, etc.) -Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and care of all hydrographic equipment and software systems -Conduct QA/QC of field-collected data to ensure accuracy and adherence to project specifications -Collect and process bathymetric and topographic data to support engineering, dredging, and environmental studies

Requirements

• hydrographic software
• 5+ years
• crew chief
• gis
• hydrography degree
• leadership

What You Bring

-Must be willing to travel and work on projects throughout the region, including occasional overnight stays (estimated <15%) -Strong understanding of positioning systems, tide corrections, and geodetic datums in marine environments -Boating license and/or experience with vessel operations highly desirable -5+ years of experience in hydrographic or geophysical surveying -Skilled in the use of hydrographic software such as HYPACK, QINSy, CARIS, or similar for acquisition and post-processing -High school diploma or GED required -At least 3 years of progressive experience as a Hydrographic Survey Crew Chief or similar supervisory role -Motivated to mentor junior staff and contribute to the growth of hydrographic surveying within the company -Proficient in the fundamentals of marine navigation, geometry, and trigonometry -Familiarity with GIS and marine data integration is a plus -Must be able to lift and carry equipment up to 75 lbs -Familiar with small boat operations and capable of trailering, launching, and piloting survey vessels in inland and coastal waters -Proficient in operating hydrographic equipment including multi-beam echosounders (MBES), single-beam echosounders (SBES), RTK-GNSS systems, motion reference units (MRUs), and sound velocity sensors -Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to assign and review tasks effectively -Ability to work in challenging outdoor environments and variable weather conditions, including extended periods on or near the water -Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written -Valid driver’s license required -Degree or certification in Hydrography, Geomatics, Marine Science, or related field preferred -Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D or MicroStation desirable but not required

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Benefits

-Best-in-class benefits, including flexible, hybrid workplace -Opportunity to work on complex, transformational projects -Focus on learning, development, and career growth -Diverse and inclusive culture of collaboration and innovation

About Vhb

-A small civil engineering shop serving local communities. -Evolved into a multidisciplinary firm tackling engineering, planning, design, and environmental challenges. -Known for managing landmark infrastructure projects—from the South Coast Rail bridges to coastal resilience plans. -Blends transportation planning, environmental stewardship, energy solutions, and land development under one roof. -Demonstrated impact beyond design by detecting a critical bridge defect in Providence days before emergency closure. -Remains rooted in civil engineering but shines for its integrated solutions and hands-on role in transformative public infrastructure.

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