Hydrographic Processing Specialist
Position Overview
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.
We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must already possess work authorization in the country where the job is located.
What You Will Do
Core Processing Workflow (Primary Role):
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
Geospatial & Deliverable Development:
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’)
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
Advanced Data Integration:
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)
Quality Assurance & Workflow Development:
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
Collaboration & Project Support:
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
What You Will Bring:
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
Preferred Experience and Qualifications
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
What Success Looks Like in This Role
Produces clean, accurate bathymetric surfaces and deliverables with minimal rework
Efficiently processes multibeam and side scan datasets across varying project types
Understands how field decisions impact processing outcomes (and helps improve both)
Contributes to consistent, repeatable workflows across the team
Supports high-quality deliverables similar to those used in federal and coastal projects (e.g., channel surveys, ODMDS, infrastructure assessments)
Benefits You Will Love
Certified as a Great Place to Work, Woolpert is one of the fastest-growing architecture, engineering, and geospatial companies in the world. With over 75 offices and countless projects around the globe, you’ll work on meaningful assignments that improve quality of life around the world. In addition to offering competitive pay, we provide employees with a robust set of unique benefits, including:
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: Cover all your medical bases.
Paid sick time, retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, pet insurance, identity protection, technology stipend, employee assistance program, and more!