Relief Research Chief Mate

The Marine Operations Department is comprised of a dedicated group of professionals whose primary function is to provide safe access to the marine environment for all students, staff, faculty, and other users, and to support the needs of these users as they relate to vessels, field support services, instrument fabrication, equipment repair, and servicing.

The Relief Research Vessel Chief Mate (RRVCM) serves as Chief Mate on the R/V Virginia (93 ft). As needed, may also serve as Captain or Mate on other VIMS vessels on a temporary basis. While on VIMS vessels, the RRVCM ensures that all federal and state maritime regulations are observed and complied with at all times. The RRVCM ensures that all VIMS rules and policies are followed while conducting field operations. Reporting to the Research Vessel Captain, the RRVCM participates in all shipboard activities required while on watch and accepts full responsibility for the safe navigation of the vessel.

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Effectively operates the R/V Virginia and directs the safe operation of the vessel as directed by the Captain.
• Operates various davits, frames, cranes, and winch as necessary to accomplish each specific scientific operation in a safe and efficient manner.
• Oversees and actively participates in the maintenance and operation of all deck and safety equipment.
• Participates in activities that ensure the operational readiness of the vessel as it relates to accomplishing the scientific objectives of a cruise which includes proper stowage of gear, ensuring ship’s gear is appropriate for deploying/recovering instrumentation and personnel are briefed on all safety-related issues prior to leaving port.
• Oversees all sampling activities while on watch at sea and contributes to the accomplishment and integrity of scientific goals.
• Coordinates with scientific personnel to assure vessel requirements, capability, and availability are appropriate to complete the scientific objectives of each mission.
• Participates in activities designed to maintain the cleanliness and maintenance of the vessel.

Conditions of Employment: This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act and university policy. This position is subject to after hours, weekends, and holiday work. This position is subject to work in, on, around, over, and under fixed equipment or machinery; to work at heights of 50 feet; manipulation of equipment or machinery, tools, supplies, and/or exertion of force up to 70 lbs; to concurrently manipulate controls on machinery and equipment. Must maintain a valid driver’s license.

Required Qualifications:

• EDUCATION: 500 ton or greater near-coastal Mates license issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) or the ability to obtain within the first six months of hire date. Valid Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) credential. Valid STCW credential appropriate for vessel tonnage. High school diploma or equivalent. Valid Driver’s License required.
• COMPETENCIES: In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations (including those contained in the Federal Code Of Regulations-CFR’s), governing the operation of vessels under 300 gross registered tons (GRT). Proficiency with MS Office applications. Ability to pass a USCG physical. Excellent communication and interactive skills, with the ability to work with diverse groups. Sufficient strength and physical dexterity to perform all responsibilities while being exposed to inclement weather at sea for extended periods of time. Ability to lift 50 lbs. Ability to work long days (more than 12 hours), weekends, and holidays. Ability to pass USCG mandated drug screening and submit to random drug testing program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• EDUCATION: 1600 ton Master near-coastal license issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Bachelor's degree in technical or marine-related field. Dynamic Positioning Operator certificate (any level).
• COMPETENCIES: Extensive knowledge of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Familiarity with the use of dynamic positioning (DP) on research vessels. Basic familiarity with the maintenance and repair of diesel engines and ship-board electrical systems.
• EXPERIENCE: Experience working on research vessels or in the commercial fishing industry. Experience working with Safety Management Systems (SMS) as defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Experience using computerized maintenance management software programs in a commercial maritime setting.

Is the position remote work eligible? Not eligible

Advertised Pay Range: up to $38.00 an hour

Benefits Summary Statement: Our hourly employees enjoy many university benefits such as participation in a supplemental savings plan for retirement, professional development, and wellness benefits. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. In addition, after completing a year of continuous hourly service and working at least 1,000 hours during the previous 12 months, hourly employees are eligible for holiday pay, PTO, and educational assistance.

Job Open Date: 02/19/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

EEO Statement: William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching, and service missions of the university.