Jessica, Geophysical Surveyor
"The best part about working offshore for Fugro is the culture. We’re a crew of about 30 people on the vessel, and there will always be someone out there to help you or talk to you if you need anything. We make sure we take care of each other; it's a family-like connection.”
Houston TX, USA
Where it all started
I studied oceanography at Texas A&M, and during my undergraduate career, I conducted a lot of research, which led to the opportunity to go offshore, sample seawater, and get used to life offshore. During my studies, I learned a lot about currents, as well as the biology and chemistry of seawater, which guided me into my career at Fugro as an offshore surveyor. I am now able to navigate a vessel, understand how currents move a vessel, and how the data is acquired and processed.
Mapping the seafloor
As Geophysical Surveyor, I am responsible for acquiring seismic, sonar, and magnetometer data. All this data is then combined to create a seafloor map for our client. My role entitles navigating the vessel to make sure the captain follows the correct path for the data acquisition. There is also a team working simultaneously, monitoring all the sensors, processing data and determining the data accuracy.
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Offshore work-life balance
I really enjoy working offshore because of the work-life balance. I work six weeks on and six weeks off. Being able to have six weeks off to rest is really good for me mentally. I get to be with my family, stay home, and relax. When I am offshore, I work 12 hours on and 12 hours off. If we have good Wi-Fi when I'm off my shift, I like to contact my family, reaching back to land and letting everyone know I'm okay. I really enjoy telling my parents about all the natural things that happen offshore: sunsets and sunrises, moonrises, and moonfalls. These are things I will never get tired of. It is just beautiful out there!
The best part about working offshore for Fugro is the culture. When you're on board, it's a family-like connection. You get to meet new people, make new connections, and everyone is very open to chatting and hearing your ideas. There's never a time when you're left alone. We're about 30 people on the vessel , and there will always be someone out there to help you or talk to you if you need anything. We make sure we take care of each other.
