Master Research Vessel Captain

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.

The Vessel Captain serves as Master-in-Command of the R/V Pelican and is responsible for the safe navigation, operational readiness, regulatory compliance, and overall leadership of vessel operations supporting marine science missions. The selected candidate will report to the Marine Superintendent and work closely with the Port Captain, Port Engineer, scientific personnel, and vessel crew to ensure the successful execution of complex research expeditions.

• 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

LUMCON is a statewide academic and research consortium representing more than 40 universities and colleges across Louisiana. LUMCON promotes and conducts marine and coastal research, education, and outreach relevant to the sustainability of Gulf Coast ecosystems.

Located at the DeFelice Marine Center in Cocodrie, Louisiana, LUMCON provides direct access to Louisiana’s coastal wetlands and Gulf waters while operating a world-class research fleet supporting scientific discovery and education.

• High school diploma or equivalent
• STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) compliance
• Coast Guard Certificate of Competency (COC) for applicable vessel class and tonnage
• 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
• Knowledge of navigation systems, including electronic navigation, pilotage, and dead reckoning

• Five (5) years of marine or seagoing experience
• Three (3) years of prior service in a Master capacity

• Radar Observer Unlimited certification
• Advanced Marine Firefighting certification
• STCW
  95 certification
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
• Familiarity with University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) Research Vessel Safety Standards
• Knowledge of applicable sections of Title 46 CFR related to research vessel operations
• Bachelor’s degree in marine science, oceanography, marine engineering, or related field

Applications will be rejected if the applicant fails to meet the minimum qualifications, submits an incomplete application, or fails to apply by the closing date of the announcement.

• 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. 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…