Hydrographic Surveyor
SOCOTEC Building Control Ltd
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
SOCOTEC Building Control Ltd in Irvine is seeking an experienced Hydrographic Surveyor to join our vessel-based team, delivering high-resolution hydrographic data for infrastructure projects across UK waters. You will operate multibeam echo sounders, side-scan sonar, and GNSS, process data, generate reports, and ensure QA compliance while coordinating with engineers and environmental scientists.
The role offers comprehensive training, relocation support if needed, and a path to grow within
Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent in Hydrography, Geomatics, Marine Science, or related field.
- Experience with hydrographic data acquisition/processing software is preferred.
- Full UK driving licence is essential.
- Willing to travel and stay away for site work.
Responsibilities
- Plan and conduct high-resolution hydrographic surveys in inland, coastal, and offshore environments.
- Operate multibeam/side-scan sonar, magnetometers, GNSS systems.
- Process data using industry-standard software and produce reports.
- Ensure QA procedures and data integrity across project phases.
- Coordinate with engineers and environmental scientists for integrated datasets.
- Assist in project planning, resourcing, and client liaison.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
- Department: LHS-LHS - Land & Hydrographic
- Business Unit: Land and Hydrographics
About Environment & Safety
SOCOTEC’s Environment and Safety team provides expert environmental, health and safety consultancy and compliance services that help organisations manage risk, protect people and safeguard the environment. Our services include environmental monitoring and consultancy, water safety and hygiene solutions with Legionella risk assessments and water system management, fire safety consultancy and inspections, occupational hygiene assessments and workplace exposure monitoring, and specialist advisory support on regulatory and sustainability challenges. We use industry-leading tools and science-based approaches to deliver accurate data, practical guidance and innovative solutions that ensure compliance with UK legislation, minimise environmental impact and create healthier, safer workplaces for clients.
What's in it for you?
Your expertise deserves recognition. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including 25 days holiday (with the option to buy more), an electric car scheme (where applicable), employee recognition programmes, family-friendly support, exclusive retail discounts, employee assistance programmes, and an enhanced company pension. SOCOTEC UK & Ireland are proud to be Disability Confident accredited.
Due to the continued expansion of our portfolio of survey services we have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Hydrographic Surveyor to join our team and to support operational and QA processes.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Hydrographic Surveyor to conduct precise underwater mapping and bathymetric surveys across UK waters. You'll work with cutting-edge survey equipment including multibeam echo sounders and side-scan sonar from our modern fleet of survey vessels, delivering critical marine survey data that supports infrastructure development and maritime navigation projects.
The tasks you will undertake will include (but are not limited to):
- Conduct Hydrographic Surveys: Plan and execute high-resolution hydrographic surveys across diverse environments, including inland waterways, coastal regions, and offshore sites
- Operate Advanced Survey Equipment: Utilise and maintain sophisticated survey instruments such as multibeam and single-beam echo sounders, side-scan sonar, magnetometers, and GNSS systems to collect accurate data
- Data Processing and Analysis: Process and analyse collected hydrographic data using industry-standard software, ensuring the production of precise and reliable survey results
- Report Preparation: Generate comprehensive survey reports, charts, and visualizations that meet client specifications and adhere to international standards
- Quality Assurance: Implement and adhere to robust QA procedures to ensure the accuracy and integrity of survey data throughout all project phases
- Project Management: Assist in the planning and coordination of survey projects, including resource allocation, scheduling, and liaising with clients to meet project objectives
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and environmental scientists, to integrate hydrographic data into broader project frameworks
- Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all survey equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and ready for deployment to guarantee optimal performance during field operations
- Health and Safety Compliance: Adhere to all health, safety, and environmental regulations, promoting a culture of safety within the survey team
- Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of technological advancements in hydrographic surveying and contribute to the continuous improvement of survey methodologies and practices
Candidates must live within (or be willing to relocate to) a commutable distance of the company’s offices in Irvine.
To be successful in this role, you will be able to demonstrate:
- Degree or equivalent qualification in Hydrography, Geomatics, Marine Science, or a related discipline. Recent graduates with relevant training are welcome to apply
- Basic understanding or experience with hydrographic acquisition and processing software such as QPS QINSy, Qimera, Hypack, EIVA NaviSuite, or SonarWiz
- Exposure to or working knowledge of data acquisition and processing for multibeam and singlebeam bathymetry. Experience with side-scan sonar, magnetometers, or LiDAR is an advantage
- Basic skills in CAD and/or GIS software (e.g., "AutoCAD", "QGIS", "ArcGIS")
- Some practical industry experience (e.g., through work placement, internships, or previous roles) in hydrographic or geophysical surveying
- Enthusiastic with a willingness to learn new techniques and take initiative in field and office tasks
- Full UK driving licence is essential
- Willing and able to travel and stay away from home for site work, sometimes at short notice
- Comfortable working aboard survey vessels. RYA Powerboat Level 2 or willingness to obtain is advantageous
- Good communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment
Why SOCOTEC?
Join a thriving community of over 2,000 industry professionals who are passionate about making a real difference. At SOCOTEC UK, we're not just delivering services - we're shaping the future of testing, inspection, and certification across the nation.
What sets us apart? Our people. We've built our reputation on attracting exceptional talent like you and empowering them to deliver excellence at every turn. Our comprehensive range of TIC services means you'll have the opportunity to work on diverse, challenging projects that truly matter.
In this role, you won't just be another employee - you'll be a key player in our continued success story. Your expertise will directly contribute to our mission of building a safer, more sustainable world, while you grow your career alongside some of the industry's finest professionals.
Build a traditional career path or explore opportunities across multiple disciplines - all within SOCOTEC. Your choice, your direction.
Work Your Way
Local, national, or global projects. Office-based, remote, or hybrid. We offer the flexibility that empowers you to perform at your best.
Committed to Your Growth
From day one, you'll have access to comprehensive training, mentorship, and development programs. We support every step of your professional journey. #YouGrowWeGrow
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