Relief Captain - Shoals Marine Lab

This position assists in maintaining, operating, and ensuring the safety of Shoals Marine Laboratory's vessels and waterfront under the direction of the Lead Captain. Responsibilities include acting as captain of SML's USCG-inspected vessels, overseeing laboratory and oceanographic equipment use during open-water activities, and ensuring the safety of all vessel occupants. The role also involves training and supervising student staff, conducting routine maintenance on vessels and waterfront infrastructure, and managing documentation, inspections, and permits.

Additionally, the position fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment. The individual must be available for emergency response while on duty and assist with various operational needs. Other duties may be assigned as necessary. Dates of employment will vary based on SML need, between July 1 and Sept 15, 2026.

• Under the direction ofSMLLead Captain assist to maintain, operate and ensure the safety of the R/V John M. Kingsbury, R/V J.B. Heiser, other small vessels in theSMLfleet and all related elements of the waterfront providing transportation, supply, and program services for Shoals Marine Laboratory.
• Regularly act in full capacity as captain of SML'sUSCGinspected vessels (R/V John M. Kingsbury and R/V Heiser) including the onboard supervision of at least one crew member.
• Oversee the operation of laboratory and oceanographic equipment during open-water laboratories, paying particular attention to the health and safety of all vessel occupants.
• Train and supervise student staff with assigned tasks within purview of vessel and waterfront operations.
• Routine preventative maintenance and troubleshoot problems on allSMLwatercraft including vessels, motors, floats, moorings, barges, and docks.
• Utilizing application-based maintenance software to track tasks and duties.
• Assist in ensuring that all vessels have proper documentation, inspections, permits and registrations.
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for students, researchers, and visitors.
• Implement initiatives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Expected to be available for consultation and emergency response at all times, on days scheduled to be working, and while onSMLproperty and vessels.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Applicants must possess a 50 ton inland (minimum)
  USCG Master's license and be eligible for employment in the United States.
• Ability to adapt to vessels with different and unique handling characteristics in challenging currents and conditions.
• Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States.
• Selected candidates must be able to successfully participate in pre-employment and random drug testing.
• Meet the University of New Hampshire's hiring requirements for both criminal and driving history (background checks are required).
• Applicants must have interest in working in a remote educational environment.
• Good communication skills and ability to work well with students, faculty and other staff members in an isolated environment.
• Knowledge of basic computer skills; proven organizational skills; attention to detail along with experience managing multiple tasks.

• Serve as a crew member on board a commercial or an oceanographic vessel, Merchant Mariner Credential, minimum US Coast Guard 50-ton Master License Valid Drivers License and Safe Driving Record.

• Must be able to work as a team member with students, faculty and staff in an isolated and physically demanding environment involving long hours.
• Must be willing and able to assist with moving, packing, loading and unloading of supply runs both on Appledore and on the mainland.
• Must be able to lift and move more than 50 lbs.

• Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) is a residential, teaching facility located on Appledore Island, Isles of Shoals, Maine. The island field station is open seasonally from May-September, and supports students, faculty, visitors and staff in a close-knit, sustainable community.
• Room and board are provided for island staff. All staff serve the island community as a team with each department working together to support SML's programs. It is everyone's responsibility to foster a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all.
• Living and working on a remote island is a unique experience which requires that everyone pitch in to help, even when it is not part of…