Topobathymetric LiDAR Strategist (Tampa, FL, Denver, CO, Oakland, CA, Bothell, WA)

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding a Topobathymetric LiDAR Strategist to join our Geomatics Technologies Team. This role supports the processing, classification, and QA/QC of topobathymetric LiDAR data for coastal, riverine, and inland water projects.

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in LiDAR systems, data processing workflows, and geospatial analysis, along with the ability to support both production and strategic process improvements.

Location: Tampa, FL | Denver, CO | Oakland, CA | Bothell, WA (Hybrid/Remote)

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Essential Job Functions:

Data Processing & QA/QC

• Edit and classify topobathymetric LiDAR point clouds, including:
  • Water surface
  • Water column
  • Bathymetric bottom
  • Submerged features
• Process, review, and validate point cloud datasets to ensure accuracy, quality, and consistency
• Perform quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) throughout production workflows
• Generate and QA/QC derived products, including DEMs, DSMs, intensity rasters, and bathymetric surfaces

 Technical & Workflow Development

• Support and improve production workflows for bathymetric data processing
• Develop and refine procedures, methods, and automation for data processing and analytics
• Review and enhance existing automation tools for product creation, QA/QC, and reporting
• Contribute to flight planning, acquisition QC, calibration, and automated classification processes

Project & Team Support

• Collaborate with project managers and technical leads to support planning, scheduling, and delivery
• Troubleshoot data and workflow issues and communicate progress to project teams
• Participate in peer reviews, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Assist in training and mentoring junior analysts
• Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
• Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
• Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
• Additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Geomatics, Geography, GIS, Engineering, Hydrography, or related field
• 4+ years of LiDAR processing/editing experience, including topographic and/or topobathymetric LiDAR
• Experience with topobathymetric LiDAR sensors (CZMIL SuperNova preferred)
• Proficiency with TerraSolid software (TerraScan, TerraModeler, TerraBatch), including macro development
• Working knowledge of GIS software (ArcGIS Pro or similar)
• Strong understanding of:
  • Topobathymetric LiDAR principles
  • Light-water interaction and refraction
  • GPS/INS trajectory concepts
  • Bathymetric surface generation
• Familiarity with industry standards (ASPRS, USGS, NOAA)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience developing automation tools and workflows for LiDAR processing
• Experience supporting large-scale coastal or inland hydrographic mapping projects
• Experience training or mentoring junior staff

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform computer-based work for extended periods
• Ability to review and analyze large geospatial datasets

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:

• Hybrid or remote work environment with flexibility
• Collaboration with distributed teams across multiple locations
• Occasional travel may be required based on project needs

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.  https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth. 

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Pay Range: $80,000-$95,000 annually

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.