Hydrographer

Help shape the safe navigation and future development of New Zealand's largest port.

Port of Tauranga is New Zealand's leading freight gateway, connecting our exporters and importers with the world. As Hydrographer, you'll play a critical role in supporting the safe and efficient movement of vessels by providing expert advice on navigational depths, seabed conditions, hydrographic survey management and dredging activities across our port and harbour.

This is a unique opportunity to combine technical expertise with operational impact in a dynamic marine environment. Your work will directly support navigation safety, marine operations, infrastructure projects and the continued growth of one of New Zealand's most important transport and logistics hubs.

About the Role

This specialist role sits within our Marine team and is responsible for leading Port of Tauranga's hydrographic programme.

You'll oversee hydrographic surveys, monitor channel, berth and harbour bathymetry, manage hydrographic service providers, and provide expert technical advice to Pilots, Port Control and Marine Operations. You'll also play a key role in supporting maintenance dredging programmes, assessing seabed conditions, analysing survey data, and providing critical information that supports safe navigation and operational decision-making.

Working across operational and project environments, you'll contribute to marine infrastructure developments, risk assessments, consenting activities and emergency response situations where timely hydrographic information is essential.

Success in this role requires strong technical expertise, analytical thinking, sound judgement and the ability to communicate complex information clearly to a wide range of stakeholders.

What You'll Bring

We're interested in hearing from experienced hydrographic or marine professionals who can combine technical excellence with practical operational understanding.

Ideally you'll bring

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Hydrography, Surveying, Marine Science, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Significant experience (10+ years) in hydrographic surveying, bathymetric data analysis or marine surveying.
• Experience managing contractors and technical service providers.
• Strong knowledge of port operations, navigational safety and marine risk management.
• Experience analysing hydrographic data and preparing technical reports.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability.
• Experience supporting dredging programmes, GIS applications, hydrographic software or commercial port operations will be highly regarded.
• An IHO recognised hydrographic qualification (Category A or B) would be advantageous.
• Why Join Us?
• At Port of Tauranga you'll be joining an organisation that plays a vital role in New Zealand's economy and supply chain.

We offer

• A unique opportunity to be the Port's internal hydrographic subject matter expert.
• The ability to influence navigation safety and operational outcomes across New Zealand's largest port.
• Competitive remuneration and benefits.
• Exposure to diverse marine operations, infrastructure projects and dredging programmes.
• The opportunity to work alongside highly experienced maritime professionals in a critical operational environment.
• If you're looking for a role where your technical expertise will directly contribute to the safe and successful operation of one of New Zealand's most important ports, we'd love to hear from you.
• Applications close: Monday 26 October 2026.