Research Vessel Mate / Field Assistant

Job Summary :

Assists in the operation of the University research vessel while at sea, performs routine maintenance and repair of the vessel while in port and provides transportation and assistance to faculty and students during field laboratory sessions as needed.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in Biology, Marine Science, Chemistry or related scientific field or comparable combination of education and laboratory experience
• One year experience in small boat handling, maintenance and repair
• One year experience in a science lab environment, preferably an institution of higher education
• Current certification in CPR, AED and First Aid, or obtain certification within 30 calendar days of hire.
• Must be able to lift and carry at least 50 pounds
• One year experience in research or commercial vessel handling and maintenance.
• Familiarity with use and maintenance of science related field equipment.
• Experience in scientific research and field study techniques.
• Experience driving a 15-passenger van or similar-sized vehicle
• Skilled in the use of hand and power tools necessary to perform job
• Familiarity with federal and state rules, regulations and requirements pertaining to research vessel operations
• Lifeguard training
• SCUBA certification
• Ability to pass drug and alcohol screening tests as mandated by appropriate licensing authorities
• Report to work obligations to support the department and may require work during HPU’s winter break, if necessary.
• Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Protection of Minors policy.
• Upon hire, candidate must have reliable personal transportation to facilitate travel between to all HPU worksites and other locations as required by the position.

This includes a valid driver’s license and a personal vehicle that is legally registered and insured.

• Due to driving responsibilities, you must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with HPU’s Vehicle Driving policy.
• Able to work all shifts and extended hours.
• Successful candidate will be able to work in an environment that utilize excellent time and stress management skills.

Key Responsibilities / Essential Job Functions :

1. Assists the University Boat Captain in the operation of the university's research vessel during laboratory sessions. (35%)

• Performs deckhand duties to help ensure safe operation of the vessel and the safety of the passengers
• Rigs trawls, nets, corers, pumps, and other scientific sampling gear for over-the-side deployment. Loads and unloads gear.
• Operates winches to anchor vessel or deploy scientific sampling gear
• Operates skiff in support of educational projects and research vessel needs
• Works collaboratively with the Captain, First Mate and faculty to plan, schedule, and accomplish their desired sampling and research objectives.

2. Performs general maintenance on the university's research vessel and its equipment (35%)

• Performs routine cleaning of vessel's interior and exterior surfaces.
• Performs routine maintenance and minor repairs to diesel engines, generators, winches, and other shipboard auxiliary machinery and equipment
• Performs prepping, sanding and painting of deck and hull surfaces as required
• Prepares material lists for maintenance and repair jobs and assures the availability of the materials by informing the Captain or by direct purchase
• Undertakes woodworking projects to build, repair or replace any parts of the vessel or dock as required using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
• Assists the Captain in maintaining the on board safety equipment required by the Coast Guard.
• Monitors marine equipment on a routine basis, and informs the Director, University Science Laboratories of any equipment needing service or repair.
• Works as part of the dry dock crew in sanding, painting and refurbishing of the university’s research vessel.

3. Drives the school van to provide transportation of students to and from field laboratory sessions. (15%)

• Provides assistance to instructors of field sessions in the handling and use of equipment
• Assists in the monitoring of the safety of the students while working in the field or ocean

4. Transports equipment and supplies from the University Science Laboratories to the vessels’ mooring site. (5%)

5. Performs collection of organisms needed for laboratory sessions from both land and water. (5%)

6. Performs other related duties as assigned (5%).

• Actively participates as an effective member of team by completing assigned duties, accepting additional assignments or reassignments.
• Assists with seasonal peaks.

This description is not designed to list all activities, duties or responsibilities which may be required for this job. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned at any time.