Oceanographic Instrumentation Engineer

#141140 Oceanographic Instrumentation Engineer Filing Deadline:
Thu 10/1/2026 DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

UNDERSTANDING AND PROTECTING THE PLANET SINCE 1903

Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego is one of the most important centers for global earth science research and education in the world. Scripps scientists work to understand and protect the planet by investigating our oceans, Earth, and atmosphere to find solutions to our greatest environmental challenges. Scripps leads research in climate change impacts and adaptation, resilience to hazards, conservation and biodiversity, oceans and human health, national security, and innovative technology to observe the planet.

The Oceanographic Instrumentation Engineer uses professional engineering concepts to perform moderately complex engineering assignments. Works in a specialized engineering field on a major training and / or research effort. Works on assignments of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of a variety of factors.

The Oceanographic Instrumentation Engineer provides technical support in the calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, deployment, and operational support of specialized portable and shipboard oceanographic instrumentation systems. Working as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team, this position supports oceanographic research programs both ashore and at sea, ensuring the reliability and performance of scientific equipment used in oceanographic data collection. While shore-based, the position is primarily responsible for supporting calibration laboratory operations, including maintaining sensor inventories and calibration schedules, performing calibrations and routine maintenance of CTD, pressure, temperature, and meteorological sensors, and troubleshooting a wide range of oceanographic instrumentation.

The role also supports expedition preparation activities by configuring, testing, packing, shipping, loading, and installing scientific equipment and spare components for research cruises. Additionally, the position provides technical and electronic support to research vessels both in port and remotely while at sea.

While at sea, the position supports oceanographic instrumentation deployment and recovery operations, stands operational watches, and conducts scientific data collection.

Our employees enjoy competitive compensation packages and educational opportunities in a diverse, stimulating workforce. This position is also eligible for full:

1) Health/Dental/Vision Insurance

2) Vacation/Holidays

3) Life Insurance

4) UC Retirement Plan.

You are encouraged to review additional information about our organization at the following: https://scripps.ucsd.edu/home

About Shipboard Technical Support: https://scripps.ucsd.edu/ships/shipboard-technical-support

Benefits: http://blink.ucsd.edu/HR/benefits/work-life/health.html

NOTE:

Salary placement is determined by the top candidate’s overall qualifications/relevant experience, market data and internal equity.

• Bachelor's degree in electronic or mechanical engineering or equivalent combination of related experience and education.

• Working knowledge of engineering principles and methods in order to independently perform professional engineering design work of limited scope and complexity.

• Experience working at sea on oceanographic research vessels or similar field work.

• Demonstrated experience working with oceanographic instrumentation systems used on research vessels, which includes safety aspects of operation.

• Proven knowledge and experience using electronic test equipment for maintaining, troubleshooting, and calibrating electronic equipment.

• Demonstrated knowledge of ocean data collection theories and…