Hydrographer

Hydrographers operate within the office, field, and laboratory. In each of these settings, individuals in this occupation carry out various duties.

The office:

• Process and analyze hydrographic data using specialized software to assess water bodies' depth, contours, and physical features.
• Use geographic information systems to create, update, and manage nautical charts and maps, ensuring accuracy and compliance with national and international standards.
• Compile survey reports, including analysis results, graphical representations, and recommendations for navigation safety and environmental management.
• Develop project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and team member and stakeholder coordination.
• Perform quality checks on hydrographic data, charts, and maps to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Engage in research to keep current with hydrographic survey techniques and technologies and develop new data collection and analysis methods.

The field:

• Perform on-site hydrographic surveys using sonar, GPS, and other surveying instruments for data collection.
• Set up and calibrated field equipment to ensure accurate data collection, adjusting settings for specific survey requirements.
• Monitor and assess marine and freshwater environments for navigation, safety, and ecology changes.
• Collect water, sediment, and biological samples for analysis to assess environmental conditions and pollution levels.
• Interact with local authorities, community members, and other stakeholders during fieldwork to collect additional information and foster collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and guidelines during field operations to protect team members and equipment.

The laboratory:

• Analyze field surveys' water, sediment, and biological samples to determine chemical composition, sediment size, and contamination levels.
• Process raw data from field surveys using laboratory software to refine and interpret the results.
• Calibrate laboratory instruments used for sample analysis to ensure accurate measurements.
• Ensure and manage maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment to maintain prime conditions for analysis.
• Develop and refine laboratory analytical methods to improve efficient and accurate analysis of hydrographic samples.
• Maintain records of laboratory analyses, including methodologies, results, and conclusions for reference and reporting purposes.