High-resolution hydrographic and geophysical data supports navigation, protects infrastructure, and informs development across coastal and offshore environments. Ports, agencies, and marine operators rely on a clear understanding of submerged conditions to plan expansions, maintain assets, and manage risk.
At David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA), we deliver hydrographic surveying, marine geophysics, and geospatial services that define seafloor conditions and support ports, infrastructure, and construction. Our team integrates advanced survey platforms, specialized instrumentation, and multidisciplinary expertise to produce decision-ready results. With more than 25 years supporting NOAA and decades of experience with federal agencies, ports, and private clients, DEA brings proven capability to complex marine environments. Crewed and uncrewed platforms expand our coverage and efficiency, supporting reliable data delivery in dynamic conditions.
The Marine Services Business Unit is seeking a Hydrographer in Vancouver, WA.
This position will be based in our Vancouver, WA office, but will require frequent travel to remote and/or offshore project locations to support hydrographic and/or geophysical fieldwork. Fieldwork opportunities will include large-scale, offshore surveys aboard our 82’ survey vessel Blake or other large vessels in addition to smaller scale coastal, estuarine or riverine surveys with trailerable launches, watercraft, and/or remotely operated vehicles. When not in the field, the candidate will be expected to provide significant support and/or oversight to our geospatial data processing workflows, perform quality control checks on work products, and produce high quality project deliverables.
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Calibrate, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain hydrographic survey equipment including single beam, multibeam, and side scan sonar systems, positioning instruments and motion sensors, sound speed sensors, and other ancillary equipment such as sediment sampling devices and hydraulic systems.
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Operate survey-related software for data acquisition, navigation, and survey documentation including review of GNSS data streams and software to confirm accurate positioning
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Coordinate and collaborate with the project team(s) to review project plans and provide project updates
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Perform in-field quality assurance, data management, and documentation activities
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Conduct in-field mobilization and demobilization of survey vessels and equipment
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Work independently or as a team to analyze and process hydrographic data, prepare survey documentation, produce project deliverables, and perform quality control checks of work products and procedures
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B.S. in Marine Science, Physical Science, Engineering, or other relevant discipline
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5 years of hydrographic and/or geophysical survey experience
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Familiarity with NOAA and USACE survey procedures
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Professional certification/licensure preferable, but not required
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Knowledge of all aspects of hydrographic surveying including vessel positioning, tides and tidal zoning, survey vessel configuration, cartography, sound velocity concepts, sonar data acquisition, interpretation, and troubleshooting, and survey documentation procedures
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Comprehensive knowledge of hydrographic data acquisition, processing, and analysis packages including Caris, Hypack, and Chesapeake SonarWiz
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Demonstrated commitment to established safety procedures
We foster an environment where talented professionals have the freedom and support to do their most meaningful work. Our values and company culture form the foundation of our success, creating a positive and collaborative work environment. These guiding principles are vital to our continued achievements and unwavering commitment to improving the world around us.
As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to cultivate and develop your skills and work alongside talented colleagues who are committed to improving the quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments.
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Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
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Financial wellness: Health Savings Account (HSA) and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contributions
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Professional development: Support for continuing education and training opportunities.
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Work-life balance: Vacation, Sick time, and Holiday Pay
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Retirement: 401k plan
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Wellbeing focus: Holistic Wellbeing Program centered on physical, emotional, financial, career, and community health
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Growth opportunities: Access to mentorship, professional support, and pathways for career advancement
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Potential salary range: $40.00/hour - $60.00/hour
- The posted salary range represents the typical range for this position and is provided in accordance with applicable state and local pay transparency laws. Actual compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and geographic location.
If you are a recruiter, search agency, or otherwise wish to refer a candidate to DEA, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate to DEA without an active and signed written agreement in place in advance with DEA Human Resources. Any resume submitted to any DEA employee by an external recruiter without a written agreement in place at the time of submission will be considered the property of DEA and DEA will not be liable for the payment of a placement fee. If you would like to notify DEA of your interest in initiating a written agreement for services, please e-mail [email protected].
Potential office locations include: Vancouver, WA.
