Hydrographic Services Manager
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Hydrographic Services Manager.
Location
Marine Research Center
1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States
Division
Ocean Enterprise
Employment Status
Full Time
Posting Close Date
August 25, 2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The Hydrographic Services Manager provides advanced technical expertise in the planning, operation, maintenance, calibration, and support of hydrographic survey systems and instrumentation used in oceanographic research and marine operations. The position is responsible for coordinating hydrographic survey activities, supporting data acquisition and processing, maintaining specialized survey equipment, and ensuring operational readiness of vessels and instrumentation. The incumbent collaborates with researchers, engineers, and technical staff to support scientific projects while ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices for hydrographic survey operations.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
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Plans, coordinates, and executes hydrographic survey operations by developing survey plans, conducting data acquisition, processing and interpreting hydrographic data, and ensuring compliance with applicable industry standards (e.g., IHO and NOAA).
- Coordinates and supports hydrographic field operations by managing pre-deployment logistics, equipment mobilization, calibration, permitting, resource planning, and operational readiness to ensure safe and efficient survey activities.
- Operates, maintains, calibrates, integrates, and repairs hydrographic survey equipment and marine instrumentation, including autonomous maritime systems, navigation equipment, acoustic positioning systems, hydrographic sensors, and data acquisition systems to support research and operational objectives.
- Provides technical expertise and operational support by diagnosing and resolving complex equipment issues, evaluating system performance, implementing corrective actions, and maintaining equipment inventories, maintenance records, and calibration documentation.
- Supports hydrographic research and scientific operations by collaborating with researchers, engineers, and project teams to develop survey methodologies, prepare technical reports, maintain hydrographic data management processes, and ensure data quality and integrity.
- Develops and delivers technical training on the operation, maintenance, safety, and best practices associated with hydrographic survey equipment, instrumentation, and marine systems for faculty, staff, students, and external partners.
- Provides technical oversight of hydrographic instrumentation and marine systems by recommending equipment improvements, supporting system integration efforts, evaluating emerging technologies, and assisting with the continuous improvement of hydrographic operations.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Ocean Engineering, Marine Science, Hydrography, Engineering, Geospatial Science, Physical Science, or a closely related field and three (3) to five (5) years of experience operating, maintaining, repairing, calibrating, and integrating hydrographic survey equipment and uncrewed maritime systems. An equivalent combination of education and directly related experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis. Must be a U.S. Citizen and possess a valid driver's license.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Knowledge of hydrographic survey principles, marine instrumentation, and hydrographic data acquisition methods.
- Knowledge of hydrographic survey equipment, including acoustic sensors, positioning systems, autonomous surface and underwater vehicles, and associated instrumentation.
- Skill in the operation, calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of hydrographic survey equipment and marine electronics.
- Ability to utilize hydrographic data acquisition, processing, and analysis software.
- Ability to develop test plans, maintain technical documentation, and prepare reports.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to organize and coordinate multiple field and laboratory activities while meeting project deadlines.
- Ability to travel and work aboard research vessels and in field environments for extended periods.
- Ability to communicate effectively with researchers, engineers, students, and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Hydrographic Science, Ocean Engineering, Marine Science, or a closely related field. Professional certification in hydrography or a related discipline is preferred. Experience operating and integrating hydrographic survey systems aboard research vessels and autonomous maritime platforms is preferred.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
