Boats Operations Coordinator

Job Summary

Reporting to the Marine Operations Manager, the Small Boats Coordinator serves as the primary operator of research vessels under 50 gross tons, supervises student assistants and marine staff, and ensures the safe and effective use of research vessels to support marine science.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of MLML's small boats and research vessels under 50 Gross Tons
• Serve as primary operator for small research vessels, ensuring safe navigation, vessel maintenance, and compliance with safety standards
• Oversee vessel scheduling and coordinate with scientific users to support research needs
• Perform and supervise maintenance, repairs, and periodic overhauls of vessels, engines, trailers, and related equipment
• Provide training, certification, and supervision of small boat operators, students, and marine staff
• Maintain documentation of vessel operations, safety certifications, and operator records
• Support marine operations budgeting and make recommendations for equipment purchases and improvements
• Represent MLML at the annual Scientific Boating Safety Association (SBSA) meeting

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of the principals of the safe operation of a motor vessel at sea, including but not limited to the ability to navigate and chart a position on a nautical chart, plan and follow a safe course, use a compass, GPS receiver and other navigational tools such as RADAR and depth sounders. Have the ability to maneuver the boat safely for science gear, enter and leave harbors and anchor in adverse weather conditions
• Knowledge of safe boating rules and regulations. Knowledge of various types of oceanographic, geological and biological sampling equipment used on research vessels
• Ability to use spreadsheet and word processing software
• Ability to communicate effectively and establish harmonious working relationships with diverse groups of people
• Knowledge and ability to carry out common repair and maintenance of fiberglass, wooden and metal boats in a marine environment, both in the water and hauled out in a boat yard
• Knowledge necessary for diagnosis and repair of diesel and outboard engines, generators and small boats
• Knowledge of Research Vessel equipment and operating procedures
• Ability to provide instruction in the safe operation of small boats. Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to handle multiple work priorities, organize and plan work and projects
• Able to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive communications with employees, students, staff and agencies

Required Qualifications

• Equivalent to three (3) years of progressively responsible journey-level or skilled experience in the maintenance, repair and operation of scientific or technical equipment in the specialty area to which assigned, including one year involving design modifications and fabrication of complex and highly extetechnical equipment or equivalent to two years of semi-skilled experience maintaining and repairing scientific or technical equipment or related equipment experience as part of instructional support activities may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience or equivalent to two (2) years of trade school or technical arts training with specialization in the type of equipment repair to which assigned.
  
  Completion of an apprenticeship program or completion of a full military specialization in the required type of equipment maintenance and repair may be substituted for one year of the required experience. A Federal Communications Commission license is required for some positions

Preferred Qualifications

• USCG License:
  Master of Motor or Steam Powered Vessels not to exceed 50 Gross Tons/Near Coastal Route
• Two (2) years' experience as Marine Technician, Mate or Captain or equivalent combination of education and experience relating to ships and their equipment

Compensation

Classification:
Equipment Technician III, Specialized Equipment
Anticipated Hiring Range: $6,250/month - $7,084/month
CSU Salary Range: $4,845/month - $8,765/month

San Jose State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest
• License/Certification

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: October 1, 2025 through October 22, 2025. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.

Contact Information

University Personnel
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