hydrographic survey jobs

The Channel Coastal Observatory are looking for a Coastal Process Scientist (Fixed Term contract - Fixed term, until 31 March 2027) who will perform a key role in delivering the observatory’s coastal monitoring efforts.

Your main functions will be to conduct topographic surveys of beaches, dunes, cliffs, and coastal defence structures using RTK GNSS and laser scanner equipment. You will also process the data you collect, perform a variety of synthesising analyses and produce reports in support of the Environment Agency’s Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) Strategy.

For this role we offer a competitive salary, benefits including 24-27 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), local government pension scheme, and an employee assistance programme (free 24 hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees). We offer flexible working conditions including flexible working hours.

In addition, you will receive full training in coastal surveying using GNSS and laser scanning equipment, and the analysis of topographic survey data.

About you

For this role, we are looking for the following qualifications and skills:

• Minimum of a Bachelors in civil engineering, oceanography, environmental science, or a related subject.
• A masters in coastal processes or a similar subject is desirable.
• Experience in coastal processes, GIS or marine topographic survey is desirable but not a requirement, as full training is provided.
• Strong working knowledge of common software (e.g. Microsoft Suite) and experience with or the ability to learn new specialist software (e.g. Trimble Business Centre, Cyclone, SANDS, ArcGIS or QGIS).
• Additional experience with coding languages (MATLAB, R or Python) would be an advantage.
• Good English language skills and an ability to communicate effectively, verbal and written.

You will require work outside in adverse weather conditions at sometimes unsocial hours when tidal working is required.

What’s in it for you?

• £31,161 - £39,469 per annum
• 24 - 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional 5 days for 5 years local authority continuous service.
• Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision
• Hybrid Working
• Wide range of employee discounts at high street retailers, including supermarkets, stores and restaurants
• A Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40 percent on cycles and accessories
• Employee Assistance Programme (free 24 hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees).

This post requires a Basic DBS check to be completed. (delete as applicable)

About the Channel Coastal Observatory

Based at the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, the Channel Coastal Observatory (CCO) is an exciting project managed by New Forest District Council (NFDC).

The CCO collects data on the drivers of coastal change through the measurement of real-time wave, tide and meteorological data and captures the response of the coastline to those drivers by collecting topographic, hydrographic, LIDAR and aerial photography data.

The data we collect is made publicly available on www.coastalmonitoring.org and directly supports the Environment Agency's Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) policy.

About us

As one of the largest districts in the country, with 6 towns and a close relationship with neighbouring conurbations, the New Forest provides a supportive environment in which everyone who works for us can help drive our aims.

At NFDC we believe that all our employees make a valuable contribution to the work of the council and that’s why we encourage a trusting and open culture where each employee is supported and respected equally, where ideas are actively sought and self-development promoted. We also recognise the value of a highly motivated and engaged workforce and we actively promote a good work/life balance. We’re keen to support career development and help all colleagues to be the best they can be.

We are proud of our values, please watch this short video to find out more. LEAF Learning Empathy Ambition Fairness (youtube.com)

If you're ambitious and passionate, are driven to deliver, and want to be part of our team, we welcome your application.

To view full details of what you can expect from working for NFDC and to view the full job description, please click on the candidate pack attached.

Click here to see why employees think that New Forest District Council is a great place to work:

Working for NFDC

After reading the job description of what the role will involve, you feel you would like an informal chat about the role, please contact Dr Thomas Dhoop on thomas.dhoop@soton.ac.uk or 023 8235 4162.

Closing date: 9th January 2026

Interview Date: 21st and 22nd January 2026