Hydrographic Systems Operator

1 month ago


Devonport, Tasmania, Australia New Zealand Defence Force Full time

About the Role

As a Hydrographic Systems Operator with the New Zealand Defence Force, you will play a critical role in creating accurate seabed and coastline charts for navigational and military purposes. This involves assisting in the creation of maps that help keep our ships at sea and clear of rocks.

Key Responsibilities

  • Monitoring of bridge survey computer equipment
  • Recording data observed by the charge surveyor
  • Recording tidal observations
  • Driving 4WD vehicles
  • Preparing survey equipment for deployment
  • Cleaning and maintenance of survey instruments
  • Assisting in the set up and operation of shore surveying stations
  • Maintaining survey records

Job on Deployment

The majority of your time is spent away either at sea or on location conducting small boat surveys. You will work on the Bridge of the ship as Helmsman or Online System Operators and should expect to work in this capacity for at least 2 x 4 hour shifts in every 24-hour period, as well as completing hydrographic and other work duties as required.

Career Progression and Training

You will start your career with basic common training before completing your first hydrographic course, during your basic trade training phase. Following successful completion you will have on the job training period with the Military Hydrographic Group (MHG) based ashore and at sea to develop core navigation and seamanship skills.

Once fully trained you will be skilled in hydrographic surveying, assisting in searching for mines utilising autonomous underwater vehicles (remote underwater search), piloting of Remote Piloted Air System (Drones), driving a number of watercraft (Workboats, RHIBs and Zodiacs), driving heavy vehicles and many more qualifications.

Salary and Benefits

Careers in the Navy are well-rewarded, as well as being diverse and exciting. As you become more experienced and move up through the ranks, gaining additional skills and qualifications, you will see your salary rise accordingly.

$50,597

Under Initial Training

$64,177

Starting Trade Training

$122,331

Future Potential Earnings

Figures updated on July 1st 2023

Benefits and Allowances

Earn a competitive salary while training or learning your trade, along with additional allowances for time spent in the field, at sea, overseas, or deployed on operations.

In addition to salary and allowances, other benefits of joining the New Zealand Defence Force include:

  • Access to your Service marae or tūrangawaewae
  • Sponsored tertiary study programmes at all levels
  • Free access to gyms and swimming pools on camp and bases
  • Opportunities to travel
  • Free and subsidised medical and dental care
  • Subsidised food and accommodation on camps and bases
  • Free and subsidised insurance cover
  • Help to buy a home and save for retirement


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