Hydrographic Processing Specialist

Woolpert•Port Orchard, WA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

Woolpert is hiring a Hydrographic Data Processing Specialist to join our Hydrographic Survey team in our Port Orchard, WA office or Wasilla, AK. Our team supports complex marine survey projects across the U.S., including hydrographic surveys, geophysical investigations, and marine infrastructure assessments. This role is primarily office-based and focused on transforming raw field data into accurate, defensible deliverables that support engineering design, permitting, and construction. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with large geospatial datasets, developing efficient processing workflows, and producing high-quality technical deliverables.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in surveying, Geomatics, ocean engineering, geology, geography, spatial science, marine science, or related field
3 years + of Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for surface development and plan production
Strong understanding of hydrographic survey principles and geospatial data workflows
Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on producing accurate, defensible datasets
Ability to manage multiple datasets and deadlines in a production environment
Self-motivated, curious, and adaptable with strong problem-solving skills

Nice To Haves

Experience with QINSy (acquisition awareness) and Qimera (processing)
Experience with SonarWiz for side scan sonar processing and interpretation
Experience with: Bathymetric surface generation and uncertainty evaluation, Side scan mosaicking and contact reporting, Volume calculations and layered surface analysis
Familiarity with: Sub-bottom profiler data (CHIRP) and interpretation (a plus), GNSS processing (Trimble Business Center or similar), Global Mapper or GIS platforms
Experience with LiDAR processing and integration workflows
Strong data visualization and deliverable presentation skills

Responsibilities

Process multibeam and singlebeam hydrographic data using QPS Qimera, including: Data cleaning, refraction correction, and sound velocity application, Patch test validation and calibration review, Surface generation and uncertainty analysis
Review and validate acquisition logs and metadata from QINSy to ensure proper integration into processing workflows
Perform side scan sonar processing and interpretation using SonarWiz, including: Mosaicking and gain normalization, Target identification and classification (e.g., debris, infrastructure, seabed features), Contact selection and reporting
Export processed datasets for integration into AutoCAD Civil 3D, including: Creation of bathymetric surfaces from high-density point clouds, Generation of contours, breaklines, and gridded soundings (e.g., 25’ x 25’)
Perform volume calculations and surface comparisons (existing vs. design or layered surfaces)
Prepare plan sheets and figures consistent with project standards (e.g., ODMDS-style deliverables, channel surveys, dredge support)
Support production of: Bathymetric maps and sounding sheets, Side scan sonar mosaics and contact plots, Cross sections and profile views, GIS-compatible datasets and metadata
Integrate datasets across multiple sensors and platforms: Multibeam, singlebeam, side scan sonar, sub-bottom (as applicable), GNSS control and positioning data, Terrestrial or mobile LiDAR for shoreline/structure tie-ins
Assist with seabed characterization workflows, including combining backscatter and side scan interpretation where applicable
Support SLAM-integrated datasets or GNSS-denied workflows (as applicable to project needs)
Perform QA/QC checks to ensure data accuracy, consistency, and compliance with project specifications
Document processing workflows and maintain reproducibility across projects
Identify inefficiencies and contribute to improving internal processing standards
Coordinate with field teams to resolve data gaps, anomalies, or acquisition issues
Work closely with project managers and technical leads to meet project schedules and deliverable requirements
Provide input to survey planning and acquisition strategies based on processing needs
Support proposal efforts with technical approach language, example deliverables, and production estimates

Benefits

Competitive pay
Freedom to Work program: Set your own schedule and location (as appropriate).
Principal program: Earn the opportunity to become an owner of the firm.
Flexible paid time off/vacation: Take time off when it makes sense for you and your team.
Career development: Explore a wide range of learning and growth opportunities within and across industries.
Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
Paid sick time
Retirement plan
Fitness reimbursement
Pet insurance
Identity protection
Technology stipend
Employee assistance program