2nd Mate, R/V Rachel Carson

Monterey Bay Aquariam Research Institute

Monterey Bay Aquariam Research Institute

Posted on Thursday, December 28, 2023

Founded in 1987 by the late David Packard, MBARI is a nonprofit oceanographic research center advancing marine science and engineering to understand our changing ocean. Located in Moss Landing, California, the heart of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, MBARI offers ready access to the open ocean and deep sea. Ongoing research programs range across autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicle systems, control technologies, ocean physics, chemistry, geology, biology, ocean instrumentation, and information management. MBARI hosts approximately 200 employees, with shore facilities that include state-of-the-art science and engineering laboratories, manufacturing and electrical fabrication shops, and dock facilities for MBARI vessels.

The institute operates three research vessels, the R/V Rachel Carson is MBARI’s 135-foot coastal vessel. The vessel supports multi-purpose operations revolving around AUV deployments, offshore instrument deployments, and diving tasks. When switching between these activities, mobilization, and reconfiguration of the vessel in port is required. Most vessel operations are completed in one day.

Primary responsibilities:
The 2nd mate performs all the duties of a mariner including bridge watch-standing rotations, maintenance, ship handling, and maintaining the cleanliness of the ship. They are responsible for correcting, and updating the ship’s chart catalog, updating navigation software, and maintaining the navigation equipment.

On deck, the incumbent assists in the deployment and recovery of Remotely Operated Vehicles, Autonomous Undersea Vehicles, CTD rosettes, and other oceanographic equipment. Tasks include general rigging as well as the operation of winches, cranes, and live boating the ship during ROV operations. Due to the small crew size, teamwork is critical to this position. Must communicate well and get along with diverse groups of people.

Although the vessel normally returns to Moss Landing the same day it goes to sea, the individual may be required to work up to one month continuously away from the homeport and be able to travel to foreign ports. This position is best suited for persons living within commuting distance of Moss Landing, CA.

Required qualifications:
• USCG License – Mate less than 500 GRT Oceans
• STCW II/3 – OICNW less than 500 GT Oceans
• GMDSS
• Current First Aid/CPR certification
• Valid TWIC card
• Valid US passport