Part-time Ocean Observing Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Part-time Ocean Observing Specialist.

Location John

C. Stennis Space Center
1020 Balch Blvd
Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529
United States Division Marine Science Position Type Staff Employment Status Part Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade
Posting Close Date August 14, 2026

The Ocean Observing Specialist will work independently to maintain and operate High Frequency Radar (HFR) systems, autonomous underwater gliders, met oceanographic buoys, and other ocean monitoring platforms. This position participates in proposal development, scientific data analysis, writing scientific articles and reports, and project management.

• Operates, maintains, and repairs oceanographic instruments. This includes testing, programming, running calibration checks and sending instruments out for repair and calibration as required.
• Performs data quality control and processing. Responsible for scientific record keeping and data entry.
• Assist in managing and performing operation and maintenance for ocean observing system operations. For gliders this includes maintenance of gliders, ballasting, deployments, recoveries, and piloting. For buoys this includes mooring design; buoy deployments and recoveries. For HFR this includes troubleshooting and optimizing HFR station performance; running antenna response pattern measurements;
  Participates in planning of and data collection during cruises in cooperation with other technicians and scientists.
• Participates in proposal development, scientific analyses and writing for professional journal articles, technical reports and progress reports. Supervises other technicians or students in proper maintenance and operation of marine instrumentation and autonomous vehicles. Actively contributes to student success and retention.
• Travels for field work and attending relevant scientific and technical conferences and workshops.
• All other duties as assigned.

Master’s degree in Marine Science or related discipline and 5+ years of experience operating CODAR Sea Sondes and other ocean observing assets. At least 5 conference proceedings and/or co-authorship of scientific articles on topics involving oceanic technology and its uses for scientific studies.

• Should have demonstrated scientific, analytical, and numerical skills including ability to understand computer code written in C and Python.
• Marine electronics troubleshooting and integration.
• Ability to be flexible.
• A logical and independent mind.
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• Patience and determination.
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate with a diverse group of individuals.

PhD in Marine Science or related field and/or 10+ years related experience in operation, maintenance repair, and integration of ocean monitoring equipment. At least 10 conference proceedings and/or co-authorship of scientific articles on topics involving oceanic technology and its uses for scientific studies.

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation s leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts.

Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.