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.

Core Processing Workflow (Primary Role):

• Process multibeam and single beam 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 Sonar Wiz, 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, break lines, 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

• Integrate datasets across multiple sensors and platforms:
  • Multibeam, single beam, 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

• Bachelor's degree in surveying, Geomatics, ocean engineering, geology, geography, spatial science, marine science, or related field
• 3 years+ 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

• Experience with QINSy (acquisition awareness) and Qimera (processing)
• Experience with Sonar Wiz 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

• 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)

• Freedom to Work program:
  Set your own…