Hydrographic Surveyor (Part-Time)

The role

You will support the real-time execution, quality assurance, and processing of bathymetric surveys deployed on uncrewed surface vehicles. This role involves monitoring sonar performance, performing data processing, and standing remote watches.

What you will do

• Perform data QA/QC, equipment setup/calibration, data acquisition, data processing, equipment maintenance, and production of final deliverables/reports.
• Stand scheduled remote watches to oversee live hydrographic data acquisition across international USV missions.
• Monitor sonar performance, sound velocity profiles, and oceanographic sensor health.
• Coordinate with Mission Pilots and the Lead Surveyor to adjust survey line plans, manage vehicle speeds, and address coverage holidays.
• Perform routine data processing, cleaning, and quality assurance checks during active survey shifts.
• Diagnose sensor or data logging errors in real time and communicate system status to technical support teams.
• Ensure strict adherence to Saildrone SOPs, safety standards, and international hydrographic regulations.
• Provide clear, documented status reports and shift handoffs.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Hydrography, Oceanography, Geomatics, Remote Sensing or related discipline.
• 3 or more years experience in the Survey or Geoscience industry as a survey professional.
• Familiarity with multibeam systems such as Kongsberg, Norbit, Teledyne and acquisition software such as Seafloor Information Systems (SIS), Norbit DCT or Qinsy.
• Ability to work irregular hours, rotating weekends, and shift work.
• Detail-oriented with a disciplined approach to communications, processes, and projects.
• Ability to operate a keyboard and other peripheral devices.

Nice to have

• Category A/B Hydrographer Certification.
• NSPS-THSOA Certified Hydrographer.
• Three or more years of experience processing bathymetric/hydrographic data with Qimera or CARI.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience using uncrewed surface vehicles or other autonomous systems for survey operations, including remote watch-standing, telemetry monitoring, and real-time troubleshooting.

Benefits

• Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual
• Annual holiday schedule
• Paid sick leave
• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
• Equity grants
• 401(k) retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth options
• Annual professional development reimbursement program
• Relocation assistance for eligible roles

About the company

Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). The company maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world.