Hydrographic Surveyor
15AI USED FOR15%moving to60%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSC
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £36,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM GEOGRAPHY AND EARTH SCIENCES →
Hydrographic Surveyor
Hydrographic surveyors play a crucial role in mapping and understanding our oceans, rivers, and lakes, providing essential data that supports maritime navigation, environmental protection, and infrastructure development. Their work not only enhances safety at sea but also contributes significantly to sustainable management of water resources, making it vital both in the UK and globally.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This job holds up well against AI
AI is used for very little of what this job actually involves today, and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Hydrographic SurveyorAs a Junior Hydrographic Surveyor, you will assist in data collection and analysis, gaining hands-on experience in the field and office.£30,000 - £36,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Hydrographic SurveyorIn this role, you will take on more complex projects, lead field surveys, and mentor junior staff, while continuing to develop your technical skills.£45,000 - £55,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Hydrographic SurveyorAs a Senior Hydrographic Surveyor, you will oversee major surveying projects, manage teams, and liaise with high-level stakeholders, driving strategic decisions.£80,000+
Apprenticeship listings for this career → (June 2026 snapshot; check closing dates on the official service)
The degree route
Courses in this career's subject area, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Earth Sciences (International Programme)University College London · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Geography and Economics (Regional Science) with Professional ExperienceThe University of Reading · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Geography and Middle East StudiesUniversity of St Andrews · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£28,000 median
All Geography and Earth Sciences courses as cards →
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Degree subjects that lead this way
Courses in this career's subject area, from the same register that priced the degree above. Subject-matched, not a guaranteed qualifying route: check each course's own entry requirements and any professional accreditation before you rely on it.
GeologyUniversity of Exeter · DegreeOceanographyUniversity of Southampton · DegreeEarth Sciences (International Programme)University College London · DegreeGeographyBangor University · DegreeGeography and Economics (Regional Science) with Professional ExperienceThe University of Reading · DegreeGeography and Middle East StudiesUniversity of St Andrews · Degree