Boat Captain

About This Role

This role involves operating and maintaining University research vessels and small boats, both at sea and in port, to support the Department's marine research program. The Boat Captain is responsible for vessel operations, safety, and maintenance, working under the general supervision of the chief scientist.

Responsibilities

• Be responsible for the performance of vessel-related duties, as well as for the safety of University property and personnel
• Operate boats, including performing precision piloting and navigation
• Operate advanced vessel electronic systems (e.g., depth recorder, chart plotter and radar)
• Develop and implement routine preventative maintenance plan for diesel and outboard engines, drives, and other research vessel systems including electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic equipment
• Oversee the servicing and repairs of boats, motors, generators and trailers
• Supervise trawling operations
• Certify new small boat operators during practical phases of boat operator exams
• Coordinate maintenance and safe operation of small boat trailers
• Be responsible for the safe operation of the vessels and the safety of employees and passengers on board
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• U.S. Coast Guard Master's Near Coastal License (50 ton)
• Five (5) years experience with small boat <24’ operation and maintenance, including three (3) years of experience as a boat captain
• Considerable knowledge of local coastal waters and U.S. Coast Guard rules and regulations governing the operation of a vessel inland and in offshore waters
• Knowledge of the sea and weather, sufficient to safely direct the operation of a vessel on the open ocean
• Knowledge of diesel engines, trawl winches, GPS chart plotters, depth recorders and radar
• Considerable knowledge of the various sampling techniques used on board departmental research vessels, the use of trawl equipment, navigation, use of SCUBA diving equipment, and the use of standard and electronic navigation devices
• Skills in all phases of seamanship including command, navigation and first aid
• Ability to plan voyages and plot courses
• Ability to make quick decisions on vessel operations in times of crisis such as equipment breakdown or inclement weather
• Ability to pilot a vessel in inclement weather and heavy seas

Nice to have:

• Bachelor’s of Science or closely related field from an accredited university
• SCUBA Certification
• Five (5) years of experience as a boat captain

Important Details