Captain

Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) is a seasonal field station located on Appledore Island, Maine (10 miles from our dock in Portsmouth, NH). In operations for over 55 years, SML is the largest and oldest marine laboratory in the country focused on undergraduate education. The SML mission is to provide outstanding experiential, place-based education and to support innovative research programs focused on understanding and sustaining the marine environment. SML is open for programming from May through September. Our year-round office is located at UNH in Durham, NH.

The key focus of the Research Vessel Captain (Captain) is to operate, maintain and ensure the safety of the R/V John M. Kingsbury, R/V J.B. Heiser, and all other elements of the Appledore waterfront to provide transportation, supplies and program services to Appledore participants.

Captains coordinate vessel schedules with island and mainland staff to accommodate program needs and transportation of passengers and freight. Provide routine preventative maintenance and troubleshoot problems on all SML watercraft including vessels, motors, floats, moorings, barges, and docks. Ensure that all vessels have proper documentation, inspections, permits and registrations. Oversee the operation of all laboratory and oceanographic equipment during open-water academic activities with particular attention to the safety of all vessel occupants. Service as a waterfront instructor in SML courses. Expected to be available in case of emergency during the operating season.

Qualifications:

U.S. Coast Guard 50 ton near-coastal license.

4 years Captain experience

Strong background in vessel maintenance/diesel engines/mechanical systems/electrical systems.

Maintain vessel records/logs in accordance within US Coast Guard regulations

Appropriate FCC licensing.

Experience operating and maintaining vessels similar to our current vessels: R/V John M. Kingsbury and R/V J.B. Heiser

Strong interest in education, the environment and marine affairs

Good communication skills and ability to work well with students, faculty and other staff members in an isolated environment

Ability to work with as a team member with students, faculty and staff in an isolated and physically demanding environment involving long hours.

Must be willing and able to assist with moving, packing, loading and unloading of all scheduled and unscheduled baggage, materials and supplies both on Appledore and on the mainland.

Participate in SML substance-abuse testing program and oversee drug testing compliance for seasonal staff.

Flexibility

Creativity

Valid driver’s license

Willingness to respond to off-hour calls for emergencies.

Learn more and apply at www.shoalsmarinelaboratory.org