Research Vessel Captain – Scientific Technician – Non

Position: Research Vessel Captain – Scientific Technician 4 – Non-Permanent – 2026-04246

Working Title:

Research Vessel Captain | Classification:
Scientific Technician 4 | Job Status:
Full-Time/Non-Permanent | Appointment Length: 12 Months – June 15 2026 – June 15 2027 | WDFW Program:
Fish Program – Fish Science Division | Duty Station:
Port Townsend, Washington – Jefferson County | Depending on candidate, a duty station of Mill Creek, Washington – Snohomish County may also be considered.

This is an opportunity to serve as the primary captain of the R/V Salish Rover, a 56‑ft (52-ton) vessel used to conduct marine fish and ecosystem surveys throughout Puget Sound. In this dynamic role, you will ensure the safe operation and maintenance of a technologically sophisticated research vessel, supporting critical ecosystem and population monitoring work in the marine environment.

You are excited to support innovation in marine technology, enable high-quality scientific data collection, and directly contribute to the monitoring and recovery of marine species, including ESA‑listed rockfish. What to Expect Lead Captain duties

• Operating/piloting the R/V Salish Rover on multi‑day research cruises, navigating throughout Puget Sound, identifying safe overnight anchorages, and adjusting plans according to changing weather and/or ocean conditions.
• Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover power, propulsion, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, gray/blackwater, fire control, lifesaving (life raft, EPIRB, etc.), and communication systems are maintained in good working order.
• Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover hull, superstructure, and crane are maintained in good working order and regularly inspected.
• Continuously monitoring VHF radio communications with the USCG and other vessels, including emergency and working channels, to ensure collision avoidance and prompt response to safety broadcasts.
• Maintaining effective communication with crew and scientific staff during docking, transiting complex waterways (e.g., the Ballard Locks), and deploying scientific equipment, while following standard operating procedures and ensuring all personnel adhere to safety and operational protocols.
• Maintaining and archiving vessel log and maintenance records.

Marine Vessel Safety Lead duties

• Developing and conducting at‑sea safety drills relevant to larger vessel for unit staff, which may include cold‑water immersion training, MOB, fire suppression, etc.
• Attaining/maintaining vessel drill instructor training and/or certification through a relevant maritime safety organization such as AMSEA, or similar.
• Reviewing and providing expert input on safety training manuals in development, as needed by the safety office.

Assists with other Marine Fish Science surveys and research

• Participating in WDFW biennial bottom trawl survey for four weeks every other year, assisting with catch processing, data collection and entry, and vessel operation.
• Assisting with other research as needed, potentially including hook and line sampling, collection of genetic material (i.e., fin clips), data entry, operation of acoustic and/or sonar equipment, etc.
• Assisting senior staff with writing agency documents and scientific papers as needed and time allows.

Working Conditions

• Lift and carry equipment up to 70 pounds.
• Operate vessel greater than 50 gross metric tons in rough seas, high winds while exposed to cold or hot weather and/or slippery deck conditions.
• Navigate tight channels, locks, and other hazardous waterways.
• Operate a crane and haul loads up to 1000 lbs.
• Use sharp objects to collect samples, such as scalpels, scissors, or fishhooks.
• Work with electrical wiring and electronic equipment.
• Work on and around engines, in confined spaces, around hydraulic equipment, and machinery with moving parts.
• Be exposed to sustained, loud noises that require hearing protection.
• May involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Schedule

Full‑time, working 40 hours per week as the standard work schedule. It is typical for weeks with multi‑day vessel trips to exceed 40 hours per week and for days to exceed 10 hours. Weekend work may be required infrequently. Schedules may vary based on…