How to Be Underwater Survey Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 12, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Underwater survey technicians are responsible for conducting surveys of underwater areas to determine the structure and composition of the seafloor. They use specialized surveying equipment, such as sonar and echo-sounders, to capture data, which is then analyzed and used to create charts and maps that can be used by a variety of industries. The role of an underwater survey technician is important, as it allows for the accurate assessment of resources within an area, which can help with the development of sustainable fishing practices, oil exploration, and the protection of endangered species. Furthermore, this data can be used to develop better marine navigation systems and to conduct research into the effects of climate change on ocean ecosystems.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. In order to become an underwater survey technician, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require additional qualifications such as a degree in engineering or a related field.
Take courses in underwater surveying. Underwater survey technicians use specialized equipment to measure and map the ocean floor. To become an underwater survey technician, you should take courses in underwater surveying, marine geology and oceanography.
Earn certification. Many employers require that underwater survey technicians hold certifications in their field. To earn certification, you must complete an approved course of study and pass an exam.
Get experience. Most employers also require that applicants have some experience in the field. You can gain experience by volunteering to work on research projects or applying for internships with companies that specialize in underwater surveying.
Apply for jobs. After you have completed your training and gained some experience, you can begin applying for jobs as an underwater survey technician. You can search for job postings online or contact companies directly to inquire about openings.

The underwater survey technician profession is one that requires ideal and competent professionals to perform the job effectively. Successful candidates must possess strong technical skills, be able to operate sophisticated underwater equipment, and have a strong knowledge of marine life and their habitats. They must also have an excellent understanding of safety protocols and be able to work long hours in potentially hazardous conditions.

A combination of practical experience, specialized training, and certifications are necessary to ensure that underwater survey technicians are competent and able to perform the tasks required of them. The result of having qualified professionals in this field is a safer working environment and a higher quality of data and results from surveys, which benefits both the employer and the environment.

You may want to check Underwater Sound Technician, Underwater Videographer, and Underwater Camera Operator for alternative.

Job Description

Operate and maintain survey equipment and electronics, such as echo sounders, side-scan sonars, magnetometers, and sub-bottom profilers.
Collect and analyze data from surveys.
Install, troubleshoot, and repair underwater survey equipment.
Prepare survey reports and maps for analysis.
Take detailed notes and photographs during surveys.
Analyze survey results to identify potential hazards or other underwater features.
Monitor the progress of ongoing surveys, ensuring that all objectives are met in a safe and efficient manner.
Maintain accurate records of all survey activities.
Work with other professionals to interpret survey data and understand the implications of the findings.
Train personnel in the use of underwater survey equipment and techniques.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of survey instruments and techniques.
Ability to operate and maintain survey equipment.
Knowledge of navigation, hydrography and oceanography.
Ability to read and interpret charts and maps.
Knowledge of safety protocols for working in the water.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Good communication skills.
Ability to analyze data and draw conclusions.
Basic computer skills, including experience with data collection software.
Ability to write detailed reports on survey results.

Having good problem-solving skills is an essential skill for any Underwater Survey Technician. Being able to recognize and diagnose problems, devise creative solutions and think critically are all important qualities of a successful technician. Being able to identify potential risks and make decisions quickly can mean the difference between a successful survey and one that fails.

Good communication skills are essential as well, so that technicians can effectively communicate with their colleagues, supervisors and clients. having technical knowledge of underwater surveying and navigation equipment is critical in order to successfully complete surveys. Finally, being physically fit and able to work in challenging environments is another key skill as underwater surveying often requires long hours in physically demanding environments.

With these skills, an Underwater Survey Technician can be successful in their career.

Underwater Geologist, Underwater Plumber, and Underwater Environmental Consultant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with underwater survey equipment?
Describe a challenging situation you have encountered involving underwater surveying.
How do you stay knowledgeable about the latest industry trends and technology related to underwater surveying?
How do you troubleshoot issues with the surveying equipment?
What safety protocols do you follow while conducting underwater surveys?
What strategies do you use to complete surveys efficiently and effectively?
How would you handle a difficult situation with a team member during the survey process?
What techniques do you use to ensure the accuracy of the data collected during an underwater survey?
How do you keep up with changes in regulations related to underwater surveying?
What experience do you have in report writing related to underwater surveys?

Common Tools in Industry

Side Scan Sonar. A tool used to map the seafloor. Example: Klein 5000 Side Scan Sonar.
Magnetometer. A tool used to detect and measure the intensity of magnetic fields. Example: Bartington MMT -420 Marine Magnetometer.
Sub-bottom Profiler. A tool used to map and image the subsurface layers of the seafloor. Example: Kongsberg EM 3002 Sub-bottom Profiler.
Multi-beam Echosounder. A tool used to create detailed maps of the seafloor. Example: Teledyne Reson 7125 Multibeam Echosounder.
Video Camera. A tool used to capture images and video footage of underwater features and organisms. Example: GoPro Hero 4 Camera.
Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP). A tool used to measure currents in the water column. Example: Teledyne RDI Workhorse ADCP.
Multiparameter Sonde. A tool used to measure multiple water parameters such as temperature, pH, and salinity. Example: YSI EXO Multiparameter Sonde.
Underwater Positioning System (UPS). A tool used to accurately position survey vessels underwater. Example: Teledyne Odom Hydrotrac II UPS.

Professional Organizations to Know

Underwater Archaeology Society
International Society of Professional Surveyors
The Hydrographic Society
International Marine Contractors Association
American Society of Civil Engineers
American Institute of Professional Geologists
Society of Marine and Underwater Technology
Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International
Marine Technology Society
Oceanic Engineering Society

We also have Underwater Robotics Engineer, Underwater Archeologist, and Underwater Welder jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Sonar An acoustic device that uses sound waves to detect objects, measure distances, and map the ocean floor.
Side-Scan Sonar A type of sonar that uses a fan-shaped beam to create a two-dimensional image of the sea floor.
Bathymetric Survey A survey of the ocean floor using sonar and other instruments to measure the depth, shape, and composition of the sea floor.
Subbottom Profiling A survey technique used to map the seafloor and shallow subsurface, revealing sedimentary layers and stratigraphy.
Multibeam Echosounder A type of sonar that uses multiple beams to cover a larger area and provide higher resolution images of the seafloor.
Underwater Acoustics The use of sound as a tool for exploration, navigation, and communication in underwater environments.
Magnetometer A tool used to measure magnetic fields which can be used to locate buried objects, measure depth, and detect anomalies in the environment.
Geophysical Survey A survey of the Earths surface and subsurface using various tools such as magnetometers, gravity meters, and seismographs to measure a variety of data and provide an understanding of subsurface structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Underwater Survey Technician?

An Underwater Survey Technician is a professional who is responsible for conducting surveys of underwater environments and structures using specialized equipment. This includes using sonar, acoustic, hydrographic, and other survey equipment to collect data and create detailed maps of the area.

What qualifications do I need to become an Underwater Survey Technician?

In order to become an Underwater Survey Technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and experience in the use of sonar, acoustic, hydrographic, and other survey equipment. You must also have knowledge of underwater surveying techniques and have the ability to interpret and analyze data.

What type of tasks does an Underwater Survey Technician perform?

An Underwater Survey Technician performs a variety of tasks related to underwater surveys. These tasks include setting up and operating survey equipment, collecting data, interpreting data, creating maps and charts, preparing reports and presentations, and providing technical support.

What type of environment does an Underwater Survey Technician work in?

Underwater Survey Technicians typically work in remote and challenging environments such as open seas, large lakes, and rivers. They may also work in shallow water areas or in areas with strong currents.

What is the salary range for an Underwater Survey Technician?

The salary range for an Underwater Survey Technician can vary depending on experience and location, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 per year.