Relief Captain - Shoals Marine Lab

About the role

The position assists in maintaining, operating, and ensuring the safety of Shoals Marine Laboratory’s vessels and waterfront under the direction of the Lead Captain.

Responsibilities

• Act as captain of SML’s USCG-inspected vessels, overseeing laboratory and oceanographic equipment use during open-water activities.
• Train and supervise student staff, conducting routine maintenance on vessels and waterfront infrastructure.
• Ensure the safety of all vessel occupants and manage documentation, inspections, and permits.
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment.
• Implement initiatives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Be available for emergency response while on duty and assist with various operational needs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum Acceptable Education & Experience: 50 ton inland USCG Master’s license, eligibility to work in the United States.
• Ability to adapt to vessels with different and unique handling characteristics in challenging currents and conditions.
• Interest in working in a remote educational environment.
• Good communication skills and ability to work well with students, faculty, and other staff members in an isolated environment.
• Knowledge of basic computer skills; proven organizational skills; attention to detail along with experience managing multiple tasks.

Required Licenses & Certifications

• Serve as a crew member on board a commercial or an oceanographic vessel, Merchant Mariner Credential, minimum US Coast Guard 50-ton Master License Valid Drivers License and Safe Driving Record.

Benefits

The University of New Hampshire is committed to providing a safe environment for all persons, including but not limited to children, and to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect and crimes against children. All UNH youth program staff shall be subject to a criminal background check as required by NH State Law. Staff and volunteers will also be required to complete periodic child safety training.

The pay range for this position is listed above. Actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, and internal equity, in addition to relevant business considerations. More information on benefits can be found here: USNH Employee Benefits | Human Resources.