Marine Research Technician

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Marine Research Technician performs specialized technical and research activities supporting the testing and evaluation of uncrewed systems, autonomous and semi-autonomous platforms, ocean-observing technologies, and associated instrumentation at the Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise. The position is responsible for configuring, operating, troubleshooting, and evaluating marine systems and oceanographic instrumentation used in research, development, testing, and evaluation activities. The position plans and coordinates assigned field and vessel operations, evaluates equipment readiness prior to deployment, collects and analyzes research and system-performance data, and prepares technical reports and research materials. The Marine Research Technician applies technical knowledge and judgment to identify equipment and system issues, determine appropriate troubleshooting actions, and support successful field operations. The position works collaboratively with project directors, principal investigators, University researchers, and external research partners.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Configures, installs, operates, and troubleshoots oceanographic sensors, instrumentation, uncrewed systems, and autonomous and semi-autonomous marine vehicles used in research, testing, and field operations.

• Plans and coordinates assigned boat and field operations, including determining equipment and instrumentation needs, preparing systems for deployment, and coordinating technical activities necessary to support testing and data collection.

• Evaluates the calibration, operational condition, and readiness of oceanographic equipment and instrumentation prior to deployment. Identifies equipment or system deficiencies and determines appropriate troubleshooting or corrective actions within established technical standards and procedures.

• Operates uncrewed systems and remotely operated vehicles during testing and extended field operations. Monitors system performance and makes technical adjustments necessary to support safe and effective operations within established protocols.

• Collects, processes, analyzes, and interprets data generated through research, experiments, testing, and field activities. Identifies performance issues, trends, anomalies, and other findings requiring additional review or testing.

• Analyzes system-performance results and prepares technical reports, research documentation, figures, tables, and other materials supporting scientific studies, publications, project deliverables, and research activities. Provides technical findings and recommendations to project directors, principal investigators, researchers, and other project personnel.

• Maintains assigned oceanographic equipment, instrumentation, tools, and technical resources and collaborates with University researchers, technical professionals, and external research partners in support of research, testing, and evaluation activities.

• Performs other duties as assigned.