MASTER RESEARCH VESSEL CAPTAIN

About This Job

The Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON), a program of the Louisiana Board of Regents (Regents), is seeking an experienced and mission-driven MASTER RESEARCH VESSEL CAPTAIN to lead marine operations aboard the R/V Pelican in support of scientific research, education, and coastal exploration throughout the Gulf Coast region.

Job Duties

• Serves as Master of the vessel by safely navigating and operating the vessel in support of research, educational, and scientific missions.
  • Demonstrates advanced vessel handling skills and maintains operational readiness to ensure the vessel consistently meets the requirements of assigned science missions and cruise directives.
  • Fosters a strong sense of professionalism, teamwork, camaraderie, and commitment among crew members in support of vessel operations and mission success.
  • Directs and oversees the safe deployment, retrieval, and operation of scientific equipment utilized during research missions, including but not limited to conductivity-temperature-depth (CTD) profilers, acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCP), multi-cores, tow nets, and chemical and biological sampling equipment.
  • Captures and coordinates closely with scientific personnel to ensure scientific operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with vessel capabilities and operational standards.
  • Maintains responsibility for ensuring all vessel equipment is operational, properly maintained, and available to support safe and successful cruises for clients, researchers, and educational partners.
  • Oversees daily vessel operations and directs crew members in the performance of assigned duties necessary to maintain the integrity, cleanliness, functionality, and seaworthiness of the vessel.
  • Maintains, repairs, and troubleshoots major mechanical and operational systems aboard the vessel, including marine engines, transmissions, generators, hydraulic systems, cranes, winches, and related vessel equipment.
  • Coordinates preventative maintenance activities and assists in identifying repair needs to ensure uninterrupted vessel operations and compliance with maintenance standards.
  • Ensures all vessel safety equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and operational in accordance with applicable safety standards, agency policies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Conducts routine emergency drills and training exercises with crew members to ensure preparedness and the ability to respond effectively to emergencies at sea.
  • Applies extensive maritime knowledge and operational expertise to ensure the safety of personnel, vessel assets, and scientific equipment during all phases of vessel activity.
  • Maintains working knowledge of and compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws, maritime regulations, licensing requirements, and LUMCON Vessel Operations policies and procedures.
  • Ensures vessel operations remain compliant with governing agency standards and operational requirements.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) compliance
  • Cargo Ship Officer of the Watch (COOW) certificate
  • Cargo Ship Master (CM) certificate
  • United States Coast Guard 200 Ton Master License
  • Valid passport and Seaman’s Book for international operations
  • Current medical certification, including U.S. Coast Guard medical requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in marine science, oceanography, marine engineering, or related field
• Experience: Five (5) years of marine or seagoing experience
• Three (3) years of prior service in a Master capacity

Skills

• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities under pressure
• Advanced maritime operational knowledge
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Attention to detail and operational awareness
• Ability to support diverse scientific missions in fast-paced environments
• Commitment to professionalism, safety, and ethical conduct