SPS Maritime Ltd
Schmidt Ocean Institute operates the 110.6m globally operating research vessel Falkor (too). SOI is a U.S. non-profit private operating foundation established in 2009 to advance oceanographic research. SOI brings together advanced science and state-of-the-art technology to achieve lasting results in ocean research, to catalyze open sharing of the information, and to communicate the resulting knowledge to audiences around the world.
The Institute is devoted to the inspirational vision of the Founders that the advancement of technology and open sharing of information will remain crucial to expanding the understanding of the world’s Ocean.
SOI is an equal opportunity employer and we strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background are welcomed, valued, and supported.
We believe that diversity brings about greater results on all levels and we aim to use our resources to generate greater impact through our work. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

R/V Falkor (too) – Hiring Job Information – Bosun
Tendering:
Start date for tendering position: 31 January 2026
End date for tendering position: 14 February 2026
Start date: 22 February 2026 (exact date TBD) subject to minor change.
During the tendering timeframe the Company will collect CVs.
Interviews with the shortlisted candidates will be held after the tendering end date.
Due to the number of anticipated applicants, the Company will usually only communicate with those shortlisted for interview.

What we offer:

  • Position: Bosun.
  • Temporary position.
  • Work Place: Research Vessel Falkor (too) – www.schmidtocean.org .
  • Rotation: Typically two months on/off. Paid Leave: One day of paid leave accrued per one day worked.
  • Medical Insurance: Yes
  • Flights: Company paid economy class flight from home airport to the vessel and return home.
  • Accommodation: Assigned cabin with an en suite bathroom. The cabin may have double occupancy.
  • Contract: Seafarers Employment Agreement as per Maritime Labor Convention.
  • Employment Company: SPS Maritime Ltd – a Cayman Islands company.
  • Vessel’s Flag: Cayman Islands.
  • Training: The Company provides training based on position, vessel requirements and other factors.
  • Interesting deep sea ocean science work (worldwide operations).
  • Ever-changing challenges in varying scientific expeditions with international teams of scientists.
  • High quality of life on board with a wide variety of food and recreational facilities.

  • Working with an international and enthusiastic crew who have a good team spirit and positive “can do” attitude.

What we look for:

  • Enthusiastic, safety conscious team worker who shares in the team spirit on board (it is extremely important that the candidate will fit in with the crew).
  • Conduct tasks independently and perform to a high professional standard.
  • Positive attitude towards other crewmembers, scientists and guests, and an overall appreciation and support of the objectives of other shipboard departments.
  • Ability to work extended hours and remain flexible, within MLC requirements, while at sea in remote locations on at-sea voyages of up to two months in duration.
  • Going the “extra mile” to adapt to the special demands of a research vessel on every expedition.
  • Interest in oceanographic science and a positive attitude towards a healthy marine environment.
  • Thinking outside the box; new ideas and initiatives which are realistic and viable are always welcome.

Job Description:
Bosun reports to the Chief Officer. They are in charge of the deck crew and are responsible for making sure that they and the deck team performs their duties in a safe and proper manner in accordance with Safe Working Practices. Their duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

  • Allocating and supervising the work of the deck crew in the safe execution of work programs, ensuring the most efficient use of the deck labor force, equipment and stores.
  • Regularly update the Chief Officer with progress of maintenance or other projects being undertaken by the deck crew.
  • Engage in shipboard maintenance projects, leading the deck team by example and demonstrating the standards which are expected. This includes but is not limited to steel preparation with manual tools/power tools (needle guns, grinders, etc.) and painting tasks (vessel uses Jotun paint products).
  • Washing down of the open decks and assisting the Interior Department team with cleaning and repairs, as required.
  • Mentoring the Assistant Bosun and the AB/OS’s in their personal growth and development.
  • Ensuring the Chief Officer is kept appraised of the performance and morale of the deck team.
  • Assisting the Chief Officer with the discipline and the welfare of the deck crew.
  • Implementing schedules for personnel, as decided by the Chief Officer, for watch keeping and lookout duties in accordance with an agreed rotation and training program.
  • General stock control duties such as allocation and inventory of stores and equipment, ensuring minimum wastage, proper maintenance of tools/equipment and the creation of purchase requests for the approval of the Chief Officer.
  • Ensure the correct storage and discharge of garbage, as directed by the Chief Officer in compliance with the garbage management plan.
  • Take charge of overboarding operations for various science packages (e.g. CTD rosette, sub-sea moorings, autonomous underwater vehicles, landers etc.).
  • Take charge of loading and discharging operations (e.g. provisions, scientific gear, stores etc.)
  • Operating vessel deck cranes (including 150T offshore crane), science A-Frame and J-Frame, overboarding systems and deck machinery.
  • Coxswain vessel’s Workboats and Rescue boat, in addition to launch and recovery operations utilizing the ships davits.
  • Conduct assigned security duties, both at sea and in port.
  • Foster a safety conscious culture within the deck team and with the crew and special personnel as a whole.
  • Maintaining lookout duties on the bridge if and when required.

Specific requirements for this position:

  • Navigational Watch Rating Certificate\
  • Able Seafarer – Deck – RFPNW

Desirable additional skills/qualifications:

  • Knowledge/experience of scientific equipment deployment and recovery.
  • Previous experience operating large cranes and executing heavy lifts in port.
  • Offshore crane operator certification (Altrad-Sparrows or similar)

General Requirements for all crew:

  • Valid STCW95 Basic Safety Training
  • Valid Seafarers Medical Fitness Certificate (ENG1 or equivalent recognised by Cayman Islands)
  • Seafarer’s Discharge Book
  • Passport
  • Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
  • Good communication skills, including English language speaking and comprehension
  • Negative drug test result on first day of employment
  • Clean Criminal Record; background check verified prior to employment

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter expressing interest and a comprehensive resume / CV that clearly illustrates why you are the ideal candidate for the position. Submit to Jobs at Sea Application Form.