University of California San Deigo is seeking a Lead Marine Technician for oceanographic research operations on R/V Robert Gordon Sproul.
This position will train other departmental staff and scientists, students and technical staff from UCSD and other research institutions in the proper and safe use of shipboard science systems. Plan and manage logistics for expeditions on a regional research vessel. Function as liaison between scientific party and ship’s crew during all phases of research expeditions. Assist Chief Scientist and research staff in the completion of the research program, including long lead time operational and equipment planning. In coordination with supervisor, schedule and conduct Pre-Cruise Meetings for expeditions aboard R/V Robert Gordon Sproul. Maintain inventory of shipboard equipment and supplies for science operations. Oversee orders for supplies and equipment. Oversee and track shipments to ship while away from home port.
Under direction from the department supervisor, coordinate work effort for tasks dealing with R/V Robert Gordon Sproul. Work with supervisor to set goals and productivity standards, and establish timelines for completion of long and short-term projects. Keep supervisor informed on the status and progress of work, and make day-to-day adjustments in accordance with established priorities, obtaining assistance from supervisor on problems that may arise, such as backlogs that cannot be cleared up promptly. Provide feedback to supervisor about the performance of Marine Technicians and other department staff.
Under direction from the department supervisor, create and maintain digital documents and models for operational and space planning aboard R/V Robert Gordon Sproul. Coordinate these efforts with lead technicians for other SIO vessels to create consistent planning documentation for the entire fleet.
While at sea, operate and maintain underway data instruments including digital echo sounders, towed magnetometers, coring equipment, rock dredges, trawls, plankton nets and uncontaminated seawater systems. Operate and maintain CTD and XBT systems. Operate, maintain and develop ROV systems. Oversee deck operations, equipment stowage, and handling of scientific samples. Assist with management of data during cruise and archiving of data at end of cruise. Assist with ship-to-shore communications via voice, email and data transfers.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Ability to operate large mechanical devices, e.g. cranes, forklifts and winches.
- Strong interpersonal skills. Must be able to work cooperatively with a wide variety of people with diverse backgrounds and education.
- Undergraduate degree in natural or physical science or engineering and three years providing technical support on research ships, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated skill to troubleshoot problems with seagoing equipment.
- Demonstrated experience in setting up data acquisition equipment and and training users.
- Demonstrated knowledge of ocean data collection theories and practices.
- Proven ability to train, delegate work and assess performance.
- Proficient in oceanographic data collection and processing techniques.
- Good mental flexibility and physical agility to deal with changing situations and systems and strong physical condition capable of sustained physical exertion under adverse conditions.
- Ability to work independently and meet firm deadlines. Must be able to undertake all position responsibilities without direct supervision at sea.
- Proven ability to effectively work in Windows and Linux operating systems.
- Understanding of basic electronics troubleshooting techniques.
- Ability to work around ships and large equipment and ensure that high safety standards are maintained.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
- Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
- Must be willing and able to spend up to 6 months of the year at sea in 1-2 month increments.
- Must be capable of lifting and moving moderate weights in port and at sea.
- Must be physically fit to perform duties without causing risk to self or others.
- Must be able to travel globally without restrictions.
- Must obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
