Oceanographic Research Assistant

Apply now Search #: 499472
Work type: Full-time
Location: UConn Avery Point
Categories: Research

The University of Connecticut’s Department of Marine Sciences (DMS) and the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) seek a full-time Oceanographic Research Assistant to join a field-forward team based at the Avery Point campus.

The successful candidate will help plan, deploy, recover, maintain, and calibrate a wide range of coastal ocean observing systems (e.g., moored instruments, buoys, bottom frames, water-level and wave sensors) and support ship and small-boat operations in Long Island Sound and adjacent waters.

The role combines hands‑on deck work, basic electronics and mechanical troubleshooting, documentation, and safe operations in all seasons. Several daytrips per week and work in challenging weather and sea conditions are required.

• Prepare, deploy, recover, service, and calibrate oceanographic instruments (e.g., CTDs, ADCPs, wave/water‑level sensors, meteorological packages) following documented procedures and safety protocols.
• Rig moorings and deck gear; select and inspect wire/rope, shackles, swivels, chain, and corrosion protection; maintain accurate logs, metadata, and inventory.
• Operate safely on ships and small boats; support deck operations including winch, A‑frame, crane, and powered lift truck activities under direction of the chief scientist or captain.
• Assist with small‑boat trailering, launching/retrieval, and routine vessel checks; perform dockside and shop maintenance (e.g., connectors, batteries/charging systems, housings, seals).
• Conduct pre‑ and post‑deployment servicing, and instrument calibrations; execute basic electronics troubleshooting and preventative maintenance.
• Perform data offloads, backups; generate concise field summaries, and documentation for internal use and stakeholder reporting.
• Contribute to field plans, risk assessments, and cruise reports; coordinate with team members to meet schedules and safety requirements.
• Support occasional outreach, training, and demonstrations for students and partners.

• B.A. or B.S. in Marine Science, Oceanography, Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field with no post‑degree experience or equivalent specialized training and experience.
• Demonstrated experience with electronics (battery/charging systems, connectors) and electrical safety; comfort with hand and power tools.
• Experience working effectively on moving platforms and in adverse weather.
• Proficiency with standard office and documentation software, including keeping clear logs, inventories, and/or metadata.
• Experience with corrosion and corrosion‑limitation practices in marine environments.
• Demonstrated experience utilizing teamwork, communication, and situational awareness skills, with a commitment to following established safety procedures.

• AAUS Scientific Diver Certification (or equivalent) and recent scientific diving experience.
• Connecticut small‑boat operator permit and experience operating small watercraft, trailering, and launching small boats.
• Experience at sea in Long Island Sound or similar coastal waters; familiarity with shipboard deck operations.
• Experience with cranes and forklifts and/or documented deck crew roles on research vessels.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with modern ocean science instrumentation and related shop/lab tools, including calibrations and pre‑deployment preparation.
• Experience coordinating deck operations, cruise plans, and instrument servicing schedules.

This is a full‑time, grant‑funded, 12‑month position. This position is subject to annual renewal, contingent on satisfactory performance and budget funding. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the American Association of University Professors UConn Chapter (AAUP).

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position is based at UConn Avery Point (Groton, CT) with regular fieldwork in Long Island Sound and occasional regional…