Tag: marine-survey

Hydrographic Survey Crew Chief

https://careers-vhb.icims.com/jobs/5597/hydrographic-survey-crew-chief/job

ABOUT THE POSITION

Are you ready to take your hydrographic survey career to the next level and lead a dedicated team of professionals in the field of marine and inland waterway mapping? VHB is actively seeking a talented and motivated Hydrographic Survey Crew Chief for our Virginia Beach, Virginia office. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking firm that values innovation, technical excellence, and professional development across a variety of hydrographic and geospatial projects.

Learn more about our Geomatics team at VHB: Geomatics

Responsibilities

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

Skills and Abilities

  • 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
  • Skilled in the use of hydrographic software such as HYPACK, QINSy, CARIS, or similar for acquisition and post-processing
  • Strong understanding of positioning systems, tide corrections, and geodetic datums in marine environments
  • Familiar with small boat operations and capable of trailering, launching, and piloting survey vessels in inland and coastal waters
  • Ability to work in challenging outdoor environments and variable weather conditions, including extended periods on or near the water
  • Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to assign and review tasks effectively
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Proficient in the fundamentals of marine navigation, geometry, and trigonometry
  • Committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
  • Motivated to mentor junior staff and contribute to the growth of hydrographic surveying within the company

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in hydrographic or geophysical surveying
  • At least 3 years of progressive experience as a Hydrographic Survey Crew Chief or similar supervisory role
  • Degree or certification in Hydrography, Geomatics, Marine Science, or related field preferred
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D or MicroStation desirable but not required
  • Familiarity with GIS and marine data integration is a plus
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Boating license and/or experience with vessel operations highly desirable
  • Must be willing to travel and work on projects throughout the region, including occasional overnight stays (estimated <15%)
  • Must be able to lift and carry equipment up to 75 lbs