Ocean Job Board
0
Organizations
0
Jobs
Assistant Engineer R/V David Packard
Posted on Sep 2, 2026
The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) is seeking candidates for an Assistant Engineer (OICEW) aboard the state-of-the-art research vessel US Flag David Packard.
MBARI works to create and globally scale the research and technology required to explore, map, and understand our changing ocean. Access to the ocean via research vessels is vital to accomplishing this mission. You’ll work with crew members, scientists, and technical staff to build and maintain a collaborative and inclusive environment to achieve mission goals.
As OICEW you will have a meaningful role in assisting in the operation and monitoring of the power plant, maintenance routines and safety strategies on the new vessel. Operations consist primarily 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.
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.
The David Packard is a Coast Guard inspected subchapter U vessel, DNV Classed 1A, STCW, SOLAS and ISM regulated vessel. We rely on our Engineering Officers to lead in maintaining vessel plant operations to the highest standards.
The ship is equipped with a DC grid variable speed diesel-electric power plant, PEMS, two electric primary propulsion azimuthing thrusters of 530kw each, a drop down electric azimuthing bow thruster 300kw, and electric and hydraulic overboard handling systems. The use of these advanced systems, automation and sophisticated handling equipment will be required.
Shipboard living conditions: Two-person cabins meeting MLC standards. Personnel have access to satellite internet with bandwidth restrictions (no streaming, some sites blocked). The ship offers a small gym and good coffee. The usual underway schedule is 12 hours/day (Two 4-hour watches and 4 hours of daywork), in port schedule is typically 8-hour days. This is a non-rotational schedule; leave is granted on an ad hoc basis, and the prospective candidate is expected to live locally. Moving assistance provided.
Primary responsibilities:
- Officer of the watch, monitors the mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and control equipment. Duties also include being in charge of power management system, observing plant status and manipulating auxiliary support systems as needed to meet vessel demands.
- Assists, completes and supervises maintenance inspections.
- Mentors personnel on seamanship and operations, cultivates a positive work atmosphere and collaboration between scientists and crew.
Required qualifications:
- Can fill Engineer Officer billet on the COI, minimum US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential, OICEW with III/1 v
- Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties VI/6
- Intermediate digital literacy
- Valid passport, TWIC, Medical Certificate
- Ability to work up to 30 days continuously at sea
Desired qualifications:
- Previous success as OICEW III/2 or III/3
- Experience with implementing preventative maintenance software (NS5, Helm Connect, etc.)
- Experience with DC bus diesel-electric generators, azimuth propulsion, power management systems and the operation of overboard handling gear i.e. cranes, A-frames, and winches.