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Hydrographic Survey Crew Chief

Vhb

The Role

Overview

Lead a hydrographic survey crew, overseeing data collection and equipment

Key Responsibilities

  • qa/qc
  • calibration
  • equipment ops
  • survey management
  • data collection
  • data processing

Tasks

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

Requirements

  • autocad
  • gis
  • hydrography degree
  • leadership
  • 5+ years
  • hypack

What You Bring

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

Benefits

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

The Company

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.

Sector Specialisms

Transportation

Real Estate

Institutional

Energy

Federal Government

State Government

Local Government

Healthcare

Coastal Engineering

Resiliency Planning and Design

Shoreline Engineering

Environmental Services

Renewable Energy

Stormwater Design & Engineering

Utility Infrastructure Design

Bridge & Structures Design & Engineering

Highway/Roadway Design & Engineering

Rail & Transit Planning & Design

Landscape Architecture

Climate Adaptation Planning

Water Resources

Active Transportation

Affordable Housing Studies

Parking Studies, Design & Engineering

Traffic Studies, Design & Engineering

Urban Design & Planning