Hydrographic Survey Technician & UAV Field Lead

US Army Corps of Engineers; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The US Army Corps of Engineers Buffalo District is seeking a Survey Technician to perform hydrographic and topographic surveys to support dredging and civil works, ensuring safe and navigable waterways in the Great Lakes region.

Position is permanent (GS-0817-9/10). Field‑oriented work with 50% TDY travel; requires vessel/UAV survey operation and valid driver's license. Federal qualifications and experience required.

Qualifications

• Specialized experience coordinating field survey operations, utilizing mathematical computations to establish elevations and alignments, and ensuring quality control of survey data (GS-10).
• Specialized experience assisting with or independently executing hydrographic and/or topographic surveys, performing mathematical survey computations, and verifying field data accuracy (GS-09).
• Education substitution is not permitted for this position.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate survey operations: plan and execute hydrographic/topographic surveys and prepare control files.
• Perform advanced survey computations to establish vertical/horizontal controls.
• Lead and train survey crews; enforce safety requirements.
• Conduct QA and site inspections to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Execute UAV surveys with data acquisition and verification.
• Operate and maintain vessels and survey instruments.

Skills

Surveying

Leadership

Mathematical reasoning

Quality assurance

Job description

The US Army Corps of Engineers Buffalo District is seeking a Survey Technician to perform hydrographic and topographic surveys to support dredging and civil works, ensuring safe and navigable waterways in the Great Lakes region.

Position is permanent (GS-0817-9/10). Field‑oriented work with 50% TDY travel; requires vessel/UAV survey operation and valid driver's license. Federal qualifications and experience required.