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Electronics Officer, R/V David Packard
Monterey Bay Aquariam Research Institute
Posted on Oct 8, 2025
Founded in 1987 by the late David Packard, the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (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.
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. 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 and therefore spends about 150 days at sea per year.
Primary responsibilities:
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot ABB diesel-electric propulsion systems, ensuring efficient and reliable operation.
• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of all electronic, electrical, and navigation systems aboard the vessel, including sensors, monitoring equipment, and automation systems.
• Conduct routine inspections, diagnostics, and repairs on communication systems, including GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) equipment.
• Collaborate closely with the engineering team to ensure integration of electrical and electronic systems with propulsion and auxiliary machinery.
• Maintain detailed records of all maintenance and repair activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory and company standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Perform preventative maintenance on all shipboard electronic systems to reduce downtime and ensure safe operation.
• Work with oceanographic scientists to ensure the vessel’s research equipment is operational and provide technical support when needed.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational procedures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any electronic or electrical issues that may arise during vessel operations.
• Ability to understand detailed electrical schematics and drawings.
• Work with MBARI Information Systems department to maintain and troubleshoot various phone and network equipment.
• Provide on-shore support to other MBARI research vessels if requested.
• May serve as Vessel Cyber Security Officer.
Required qualifications:
• USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsements appropriate for the role
• Must be fit/qualified to get Electro-Technical Rating (ETR) within the first 90 days of hire
• Degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience with diesel-electric propulsion systems
• In-depth knowledge of marine electronics systems, including navigation, communication, and automation systems
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent communication and record-keeping abilities
Desired qualifications:
• Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)
• Experience working with oceanographic research vessel systems and scientific equipment
• Strong knowledge of marine regulations and safety standards
• Familiarity with integrated ABB marine power management systems and vessel control systems
• FCC GMDSS Maintainer License
• Knowledge of Marine Cyber Security protocols
This position offers the opportunity to work in a challenging, dynamic environment, contributing to cutting-edge oceanographic research while ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s electronic systems.
NOTE: MBARI offers very generous leave benefits, including paid vacation and shore leave (the latter based on at-sea days). We believe in work-life balance and thus every attempt is made to grant people’s time-off requests. Typically, leave periods are filled by a relief pool.
Location: US West Coast, Moss Landing, CA