Underwater Robotic Technician

Job Title

Underwater Robotic Technician

School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ.

The Department of Marine & Coastal Sciences seeks a part‑time, entry‑level Underwater Robotic Technician to assist the Rutgers Center for Ocean Observation Leadership (RUCOOL) with field operations of underwater autonomous robots, including glider deployment, recovery, and related tasks.

• Work on research vessels (R’Vs’) and in laboratories with underwater glider deployments and recoveries.
• Lead a deployment or recovery team for Slocum gliders.
• Obtain water samples, deploy and recover underwater autonomous robots.
• Operate a vehicle and coordinate with the shore team.
• Assist with other field tasks as required.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High school or vocational school education or equivalent experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of underwater and Slocum gliders.
• Knowledge of maneuvering, handling, deploying, recovering, and communicating with gliders.
• Ability to communicate effectively via email, cell, and satellite phone.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior training on underwater gliders and vessel operations (e.g., Glider Technician Camp).
• Experience taking water samples using a sampling rosette and performing net tows.
• Proficiency with PC computers and Seabird sampling software.

• Position Status:
  Part Time
• Working Hours:
  
  8 hours per week, primarily during field operations.
• Daily
  
  Work Shift:
  
  Day
• Work Arrangement:
  Fully on‑site.
• Location:
  
  Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ.

USD $19–$22 per hour.

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs.
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options.
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable).
• Life insurance coverage.
• Employee discount programs.

• Operate comfortably on vessels.
• Potentially work longer days at sea, 4–8 hours.
• Travel 2–4 hours a day via vehicle.
• Lift up to 50 lbs. with assistance.
• Flexibility to work during favorable weather opportunities.

Rutgers University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, marital or domestic partnership, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, military service liability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or genetic information. For additional information see the Non‑Discrimination Statement at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Posting Close Date:
July 3, 2026.