PORT ENGINEER

About the role

LUMCON, a program of the Board of Regents, is a statewide academic consortium focused on strengthening foundational marine science to address environmental and socioeconomic challenges facing Louisiana and the nation. It provides unparalleled opportunities in marine science and education, anchored by the DeFelice Marine Center—a first‑rate marine laboratory embedded in Louisiana’s dynamic wetland environment and situated on a gateway to the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. From this facility LUMCON operates a world‑class fleet of research vessels unmatched in the Gulf. In 2023 LUMCON is expanding its programs with the opening of a maritime research and outreach facility in Houma. The Port Engineer supports oceanographic research for LUMCON within the Ship Operations group, which is responsible for the scheduling, operation, maintenance, and repair of three oceanographic research vessels (R/V Pelican, R/V Point Sur, and R/V Acadiana) and, beginning in 2023, a new Regional Class Research Vessel (R/V Gilbert R. Mason) for the National Science Foundation. The Pelican and Point Sur are slated for retirement in approximately four years and will be replaced with a “Pelican Replacement” vessel. The primary duty of the Port Engineer is to manage the material readiness of these vessels, the future ship operations facility in Houma, LA, and current marine operations in Cocodrie, LA.

Responsibilities

• Ship Operations is a seven day per week operation; therefore, weekend and holiday work may be periodically required.
• Shift and/or work assignment may change based on operational needs.
• Up to 10% of duties require working at sea aboard vessels.
• This position requires working in a port/dock environment. The ability to move about in small and confined shipboard spaces, operate forklift and lift equipment, assist with vessel mooring, etc. is required.
• Work may involve heights such as a ship's mast, may be performed over water, and where lock-out/tag procedures are required.
• Work may require exposure to high noise levels, or paint, fuel or other fumes. Use of protective equipment including safety eyewear, hearing protection and a respirator or dust mask is required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field from a maritime or military academy, college, or university.
• Acceptable substitutions for a degree are:
  • A minimum of 6 years' experience with research vessel management as a Port Engineer (or equivalent) at another UNOLS facility or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Marine Operations Center.
  • Four (4) years of sea service as a First Assistant or Chief Engineer on research or commercial vessels.
  • Military experience equal to or greater than the above qualifications.
• Meet USCG drug testing requirements.
• Current USCG License Designated Duty Engineer 4000 HP equivalent or better.
• A technical knowledge of ships and related equipment, maintenance operations, overhaul, and design.