Research Vessel Captain - Scientific Technician 4 - Non-Permanent - 2026-04246

State of Washington•Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an opportunity to serve as the primary captain of the R/V Salish Rover, a 56-ft (52-ton) vessel used to conduct marine fish and ecosystem surveys throughout Puget Sound. In this dynamic role, you will ensure the safe operation and maintenance of a technologically sophisticated research vessel, supporting critical ecosystem and population monitoring work in the marine environment. You are excited to support innovation in marine technology, enable high-quality scientific data collection, and directly contribute to the monitoring and recovery of marine species, including ESA-listed rockfish.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Current USCG Master’s license commensurate with operating a 52-ton research vessel in Puget Sound (e.g. Master 100 GRT Near Coastal or greater).
At least seven (7) years of documented sea service on vessels of comparable tonnage and operating area, including a minimum of three (3) years of service in a supervisory or command capacity.
Valid Driver's License.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in fisheries biology, marine biology, oceanography, natural resource management, environmental science, or related field.
At least ten (10) years of documented sea service on vessels of comparable tonnage and operating area, including a minimum of five (5) years of service in a supervisory or command capacity.
Two (2) years or more of relevant professional experience in the following areas: Vessel Operations, Navigation, & Maintenance Operating vessels in support of scientific research activities.
Navigating Puget Sound waterways, including knowledge of regional tides, currents, and weather patterns.
Exercising sound judgment and decision-making in dynamic or high-pressure conditions.
Diagnosing and addressing mechanical issues at sea, including marine diesel engines and associated systems (e.g., fuel, cooling, hydraulics).
Troubleshooting and repairing vessel electrical systems, including safe integration and operation of scientific equipment.
Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting deck and hydraulic systems (e.g., winches, cranes, trawl gear, lifting equipment).
Demonstrated ability to safely resolve equipment or vessel system issues during multi-day operations without immediate access to shore-based support.
Scientific Operations Deploying or assisting with deployment of scientific equipment (e.g., CTDs, ROVs, drop cameras, eDNA/water sampling systems, nets, hydroacoustic equipment).
Familiarity with scientific data collection practices and working collaboratively with research staff.
Familiarity with Pacific Northwest marine fish species.
Safety, Leadership, & Communication Exercising clear authority for vessel and crew safety.
Conducting routine safety drills (e.g., fire, man overboard, abandon ship).
Promoting a strong onboard safety culture for mixed scientific and vessel crews.
Communicating effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
Resolving conflict constructively and working effectively within interdisciplinary teams.
Proficiency with standard computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office), participating in professional meetings, and representing an Agency or organization in public and professional contexts.

Responsibilities

Serves as the lead captain of the R/V Salish Rover in support of marine population and ecosystem surveys.
Operating/piloting the R/V Salish Rover on multi-day research cruises, navigating throughout Puget Sound, identifying safe overnight anchorages, and adjusting plans according to changing weather and/or ocean conditions.
Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover power, propulsion, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, gray/blackwater, fire control, lifesaving (life raft, EPIRB, etc.), and communication systems are maintained in good working order.
Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover hull, superstructure, and crane are maintained in good working order and regularly inspected.
Continuously monitors VHF radio communications with the USCG and other vessels, including emergency and working channels, to ensure collision avoidance and prompt response to safety broadcasts.
Maintaining effective communication with crew and scientific staff during docking, transiting complex waterways (e.g. the Ballard Locks), and deploying scientific equipment, while following standard operating procedures and ensuring all personnel adhere to safety and operational protocols.
Maintaining and archiving vessel log and maintenance records.
Serve as the unit’s marine vessel safety lead.
Developing and conducts at-sea safety drills relevant to larger vessel for unit staff, which may include cold-water immersion training, MOB, fire suppression, etc.
Attaining/maintaining vessel drill instructor training and/or certification through a relevant maritime safety organization such as AMSEA, or similar.
Reviewing and providing expert input on safety training manuals in development, as needed by the safety office.
Assists with other Marine Fish Science surveys and research.
Participates in WDFW biennial bottom trawl survey for four weeks every other year, assists with catch processing, data collection and entry, and vessel operation.
Assists with other research as needed, potentially including hook and line sampling, collection of genetic material (i.e. fin clips), data entry, operation of acoustic and/or sonar equipment, etc.
Assists senior staff with writing agency documents and scientific papers as needed and time allows.