Electronics Officer, R/V David Packard We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Electronics Officer to join our team on R/V David Packard, specializing in the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of ABB diesel-electric propulsion systems aboard oceanographic research vessels. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the optimal performance of the vessel's electronic, communication, and navigation systems, as well as overseeing the maintenance and repair of critical systems under the guidance of the Chief Engineer. This position requires expertise in advanced marine electronics, automation and must have a strong background in electrical engineering.
Chief Mate, R/V David Packard MBARI is seeking candidates for a full time Chief Mate aboard R/V David Packard. As Chief Mate you will be a key leader in getting the ship fully operational, meeting regulatory requirements and creating a positive culture aboard R/V David Packard for facilitating science operations. The Chief Mate fills an essential role in developing procedures, maintenance routines, and safety strategies on the new vessel. We will rely on the Chief Mate to lead maintaining the vessel to the highest standards. Operations consist primarily in supporting remote and autonomous vehicles including a 4000m work class ROV, AUVs and wave gliders. An ideal candidate will also serve as a relief Captain.
Synchro Program Specialist The Synchro Program office is implemented by the Central and Northern California Ocean Observing System (CeNCOOS) and housed at MBARI. Synchro procures cost-effective and accessible ocean technology and shares them with users for evaluations and strengthening connections between developers and those who rely on ocean data. We are also piloting the use of emerging technologies to monitor ecosystem-wide changes related to offshore energy, exploring how these tools can capture broad ocean dynamics rather than single indicators. This position will coordinate the documentation and reporting stages of Synchro’s testing and evaluation program, including assisting developers to produce, review, revise, and complete documentation of their testing. This includes handling documentation from both the testing and evaluation program, and the accessible ocean tech (AOT) evaluation program.
Port Captain MBARI is seeking an experienced, safety-focused Port Captain to manage and oversee vessel operations and regulatory oversight. The Port Captain position is a mixed position with the majority for shore side support, complemented by sea time. When at sea, command may include both Rachel Carson and David Packard, a newly delivered dynamic positioning diesel-electric research vessel, both operating on the U.S. West Coast. The successful candidate will lead complex, multidisciplinary science missions emphasizing ROV operations, multibeam hydrographic surveys, and precision station-keeping. This position requires demonstrated technical competence with integrated bridge systems and dynamic positioning systems, proven operational leadership, regulatory/compliance expertise, and the ability to motivate and develop a small technical ship’s team.
Captain, R/V David Packard MBARI is seeking an experienced, safety-focused Captain to command a newly delivered dynamic positioning diesel-electric research vessel operating on the U.S. West Coast. This is a full time, permanent role. The successful candidate will lead complex, multidisciplinary science missions emphasizing ROV operations, multibeam hydrographic surveys, and precision station-keeping. This position requires demonstrated technical competence with integrated bridge systems and dynamic positioning systems, proven operational leadership, regulatory/compliance expertise, and the ability to motivate and develop a small technical ship’s team. The ship will be tasked with supporting 5-10 day multi-disciplinary science missions (longer trips are possible). In an average year, the vessel supports about 18-20 science missions per year.
Relief USCG Licensed Engineers The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) is seeking engineering candidates ranging from QMED-Oiler to OICEW for intermittent temporary work aboard R/V Rachel Carson and R/V David Packard. Operations primarily consist in supporting remote and autonomous vehicles, including a 4000m work class ROV, AUVs, and wave gliders. Moorings, CTDs and other science sampling operations are common. When switching between these activities, mobilization and reconfiguration of the vessel in port is required. Most vessel operations are completed in one day.