Research Vessel Captain - Scientific Technician - Non

Working Title

Research Vessel Captain

Scientific Technician 4

Full‑Time/Non‑Permanent

12 Months – June 15, 2026 – June 15, 2027

Fish Program – Fish Science Division

Port Townsend, Washington – Jefferson County

Depending on the successful candidate, a duty station of Mill Creek, Washington – Snohomish County may also be considered.

Lead Captain of the R/V Salish Rover

• Operate and pilot 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.
• Ensure the vessel’s power, propulsion, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, gray/blackwater, fire control, lifesaving, and communication systems are maintained in good working order.
• Ensure the hull, superstructure, and crane are maintained in good working order and regularly inspected.
• Continuously monitor VHF radio communications with the USCG and other vessels to ensure collision avoidance and prompt response to safety broadcasts.
• Maintain effective communication with crew and scientific staff during docking, transiting complex waterways, and deploying scientific equipment, following standard operating procedures and ensuring all personnel adhere to safety and operational protocols.
• Maintain and archive vessel log and maintenance records.

Marine Vessel Safety Lead

• Develop and conduct at‑sea safety drills for unit staff, including cold‑water immersion training, man‑overboard, fire suppression, and other relevant procedures.
• Maintain vessel drill instructor training and certification through a relevant maritime safety organization such as AMSEA.
• Review and provide expert input on safety training manuals.

Assists with other Marine Fish Science surveys and research

• Participate in WDFW biennial bottom trawl survey, assist with catch processing, data collection, entry, and vessel operation.
• Assist with other research as needed, including hook‑and‑line sampling, collection of genetic material, data entry, operation of acoustic and/or sonar equipment.
• Assist senior staff with writing agency documents and scientific papers as time allows.

Work setting – This position performs a mix of both office and field tasks.

Physical and environmental requirements

• Lift and carry equipment up to 70 pounds.
• Operate vessel >50 gross metric tons in rough seas, high winds while exposed to cold or hot weather and/or slippery deck conditions.
• Navigates 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.
• 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. Weeks with multi‑day vessel trips may exceed 40 hours per week and days may exceed 10 hours. Weekend work may be required infrequently. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.

Travel requirements – Frequent multi‑day trips on vessels throughout Puget Sound, up to 50% of time may be spent traveling for vessel‑related fieldwork. Infrequent overnight travel to other areas of Washington, up to 1 week at a time, may occur to attend conferences, trainings, teach MOCC, assist with fieldwork, etc.

Customer Interactions – May interact with WDFW customers, members of the public, project partners, business and vendors, and tribal governments. Infrequently may encounter hostile interactions requiring a calm, professional, and diplomatic demeanor.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Current USCG Master’s license commensurate with operating a 52‑ton research vessel in Puget Sound (e.g., Master 100 GRT Near Coastal or greater).
• At least seven…