Freelance Marine Geoscientist / Geophysicist - JAB Recruitment

Overview:

The Geoscientist is responsible for acquiring, processing, and interpreting side-scan sonar data to support marine survey projects, including seabed mapping, habitat classification, and identifying underwater objects or hazards. This role emphasizes expertise in the use of SonarWiz software and a deep understanding of side-scan sonar systems, ensuring accurate and high-quality deliverables for marine exploration, construction, and environmental assessments. Geoscience software such as Oasis Montaj, RadexPro, and Kingdom are also sought after.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct side-scan sonar surveys for seabed characterization, identifying anomalies, and mapping underwater features.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain side-scan sonar systems during field operations.
• Process and analyze sonar data using SonarWiz software to generate detailed maps and interpret seabed features.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including hydrographic surveyors, environmental scientists, and engineers, to support project goals.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, environmental regulations, and project-specific requirements.
• Troubleshoot hardware and software issues related to side-scan sonar systems and data processing.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, charts, and visualizations to present survey findings to clients and stakeholders.
• Assist with the planning and execution of geophysical survey projects, including logistical coordination and method selection.
• Provide training and mentorship to junior team members on side-scan sonar operations and data interpretation.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Geophysics, Geomatics, Oceanography, or a related field. Applicable field experience is also equally considered.

Experience/Specific Knowledge:

• At least 3 years of experience conducting side-scan sonar surveys and processing sonar data.
• Proficiency in using SonarWiz for data acquisition, processing, and interpretation.
• Strong knowledge of side-scan sonar principles, equipment operation, and data integration.
• Familiarity with GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS for mapping and visualization.
• Experience with integrating side-scan sonar data with other geophysical datasets, such as multibeam bathymetry or magnetometer data.

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations:

• Valid offshore safety certifications, such as STCW, HUET, or BOSIET.
• Offshore Medical
• Passport
• Seaman's Book
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel internationally.

Competencies, Skills & Abilities:

• Expertise in SonarWiz and side-scan sonar data processing techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, especially for interpreting complex sonar datasets.
• Effective communication skills for presenting findings to clients and stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to dynamic field conditions.
• Attention to detail in data quality control, processing, and reporting.

Physical Demands:

• Extended periods of work on vessels, including offshore environments, often in variable weather conditions.
• Physical fitness to meet the demands of fieldwork in remote or marine settings.

Working Conditions:

• A mix of office-based data processing and field operations, including offshore assignments.
• Exposure to challenging marine environments and extended work hours during field projects.
• Frequent domestic and international travel to project sites.

Preferred Education, Experience, Certifications, Competencies, Skills & Abilities:

• Experience with other geophysical survey equipment, such as sub-bottom profilers or magnetometers.
• Familiarity with additional survey software such as Hypack, QINSy, EIVA, or CARIS is a HUGE PLUS
• Knowledge of marine habitat mapping and environmental assessments.
• Proven leadership experience in geophysical survey projects.
• Experience in integrating geophysical data with hydrographic datasets for comprehensive deliverables.