Senior Research Technician - 140374

UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for this role, we strongly encourage you to apply.

About the Role

Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO) at UC San Diego is one of the most important centers for global earth science research and education in the world. Scripps scientists work to understand and protect the planet by investigating our oceans, Earth, and atmosphere to find solutions to our greatest environmental challenges. Supporting SIO, Shipboard Technical Support (STS) provides specialized expertise, personnel, instrumentation, and support services to scientists that use oceanographic research vessels.

During field research projects, this position oversees deck operations, equipment stowage, and handling of scientific samples. Manages and/or assists with shipment of science equipment to and from research ships in port. Oversees loading and unloading of science equipment on research ships. Assembles, operates, and maintains oceanographic sampling equipment for collection of geological, physical, chemical, and biological data.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain underway data instruments including digital echosounders, towed magnetometers, coring equipment, rock dredges, trawls, plankton nets, and uncontaminated seawater systems.
• Operate and maintain CTD and XBT systems.
• Assist with management of data during cruise and archiving of data at the end of cruise.
• Assist with ship-to-shore communications via voice, email, and data transfers.
• Train scientists, students, crew, and technical staff in the proper and safe use of shipboard systems and equipment.
• Function as a subject matter expert to the Restech team and train junior technicians in best practices and techniques.
• Perform on-the-job training and provide feedback to supervisors about the performance of personnel in training.
• Manage assigned maintenance, fabrication, engineering, inventory, documentation, and field research projects.
• Work with supervisors to set goals, productivity standards, and establish timelines for completion of long and short-term projects.
• Coordinate in-port and at-sea logistics between all internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in natural or physical science or engineering and three (3) or more years of experience leading deck operations on research ships, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience operating large mechanical devices, e.g., cranes, forklifts, and winches.
• Demonstrated skill to troubleshoot problems with mechanical seagoing equipment.
• Proficient in oceanographic data and sample collection and processing techniques.
• Understanding of basic electronics troubleshooting techniques.
• Experience in setting up data acquisition equipment and training users.
• Experience leading operations involving large equipment while ensuring that high safety standards are maintained.
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work cooperatively with a wide variety of people with diverse backgrounds and education.
• Proven ability to train, delegate work, and assess performance.

Special Conditions

• Valid U.S. Passport required.
• This is a variable work schedule appointment; the selected candidate must be willing and able to spend up to 8 months of the year actively assigned to a vessel domestically, globally, and at-sea in 1-3 month increments.
• Must be capable of lifting and moving moderate weights in port and at sea.
• Must be physically fit to perform duties without causing risk to self or others.
• Must be able to travel globally without restrictions.
• Must obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
• This position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter pursuant to the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act.

Benefits

• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Vacation/Holidays
• Life Insurance
• UC Retirement Plan

Pay

Hiring Pay Scale: $71,598 - $84,981.60/annually

Annual Full Pay Range: $75,481 - $121,355 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $36.15 - $58.12

Salary placement is determined by the top candidate’s overall qualifications/relevant experience, market data, and internal equity.

Schedule

8 hrs/day, variable