Senior Hydrographic Surveyor

About the team

We're seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Hydrographic Surveyor to lead and deliver high-quality marine and inland hydrographic survey projects across the Gold Coast. This critical role supports coastal protection, infrastructure planning, and sustainability initiatives through the provision of accurate bathymetric data and expert technical advice. You'll work across a variety of marine environments—from our iconic surf zones and offshore reefs to canals, lakes and urban waterways—applying advanced technology and field leadership to support key City and State programs.

About your new role

•    Lead and supervise field-based hydrographic survey operations and small boat crews.

•    Deliver high-accuracy bathymetric data using multibeam/single-beam echo sounders, side scan sonar, GNSS/INS, LiDAR and inertial systems.

•    Conduct quality assurance, data processing, and validation using software such as Hypack, Qinsy and Qimera.

•    Support City-wide initiatives including the Our Coastal Lifestyle Strategy, Coastal Adaptation Plan, and Climate Resilience and Sustainability Strategy.

•    Mentor and support junior hydrographic survey staff, and audit external survey contractor data.

•    Provide advice on project methodologies and ensure survey activities align with regulatory and safety requirements.

•    Mobilise for reactive high-priority surveys as weather windows allow, including dredging support, canal maintenance, coastal monitoring and nourishment projects and post-storm assessments.

We're looking for people who have:

•    A tertiary qualification in Surveying, Hydrography, or Spatial Science

•    Demonstrated experience (10+ years) in marine hydrographic surveying including vessel fitout, mobilisation, and GNSS/INS positioning systems.

•    Demonstrated experience in vessel setup for multibeam and single beam systems

•    Demonstrated experience in equipment calibration

•    Expertise using hydrographic software

•    Demonstrated understanding of relevant legislation and standards (e.g., IHO S-44).

•    AHSCP Level 1 (Cat A) or Level 2 (Cat B) certification (highly desirable).

•    Coxswain Grade 1 (NC) and PWC licence (highly desirable).

•    Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to supervise and develop staff.

Be part of shaping the Gold Coast's future

The Gold Coast is inspired by lifestyle and driven by opportunity. We are the second largest Council in Australia.

We care about being the most flexible government organisation in Australia and we have a range of benefits to help you create the right balance:

• Flexible work arrangements to suit your lifestyle, including hybrid/work from home options, flexible working hours and locations
• Personal and professional development courses
• Access to 350+ fitness facilities through Fitness Passport
• 4 free confidential counselling sessions a year for you or an immediate family member
• 1 free nutritionist and financial advice session per year

We pride ourselves on our shared mission of being a high-performing, customer-focused organisation which delivers value-for-money services to the community. We're committed to creating a diverse workplace and inclusive culture.

How to apply

For more information, view the position brief by clicking the paperclip icon in the top right corner of this screen.

Click 'Apply' to submit your online application. Upload your Resume with a Cover Letter (of no more than 2 pages) outlining how your skills, experience and personal attributes would allow you to achieve success in this role.

Documents needs to be less than 2MB in size and PDF format is preferred. If you encounter technical issues when applying, please email

Our selection process may include a one-way video interview via Criteria, a face-to-face or virtual interview via Microsoft Teams, reference checks via Xref and additional checks including police checks, employment history checks, qualification checks, pre-employment medical reviews and drug and alcohol testing.

Contact Person

Ryan De Wet

Contact

Closing Date

Sunday 31st August 2025

Please note applications for all of our vacancies close at 10.30pm on the listed closing date.

The City of Gold Coast is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace. We are committed to supporting an environment where all employees, regardless of their differences or similarities, feel valued, respected and supported. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons are encouraged to apply.