Schmidt Ocean Institute operates the 110m globally operating research vessel Falkor (too). The Institute is a U.S. non-profit private operating foundation established in 2009 to advance oceanographic research. The Institute 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.

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.

Schmidt Ocean Institute is an equal opportunity employer and we strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background are welcomed, valued, and supported.

Schmidt Ocean Institute believes that diversity brings about greater results on all levels and we aim to use our resources to generate greater impact through the Institute’s work. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

R/V Falkor (too) – Hiring Job Description – AUV Technician / ROV Pilot Technician

Tendering:
Start date for tendering position: 27 February 2026
End date for tendering position: 20 March 2026
Start date: 01 June 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: AUV Technician / ROV Pilot Technician
  • Duration: Permanent
  • 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, worldwide coverage
  • 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.
  • Probation Period: 3 months.
  • 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:

  • Perform all AUV / ROV / Robotic Systems operations, including operating launch and recovery systems (LARS), performing robotic vehicle and related systems repair and maintenance, and perform equipment / sensor integrations.
  • Maintain the vessel’s AUVs and related systems.
  • Prepare, test and operate the vessel’s AUV equipment.
  • AUV mission planning and execution.
  • AUV data quality control management and review and assess preliminary data aboard the vessel to ensure the AUV sensors are collecting high-quality information for scientific research purposes.
  • Pilot or assist in the piloting of vessel’s ROVs including evaluating the environment conditions and hazards, supporting ROV launch and recovery and navigate the ROVs by acoustics, sonar and visual (video).
  • Operate ROV equipment to include cameras (video and still), acoustic positioning systems, sonars, manipulators (robotic arms), LARS), hydraulic power units, complex subsea tooling, sensors and samplers.
  • Operate and repair ROV related electrical over hydraulic and direct hydraulic control systems that interact with pumps, valves and other hydraulic transmission and power equipment.
  • Operate and interface ROV related sub-sea navigational equipment including but not limited to magnetic compass, gyro, transducer, sonar, altimeter, and associated survey and science equipment.
  • Provide guidance to other AUV, ROV, shipboard and science personnel.
  • Ensure all AUV / ROV operations are carried out in accordance with appropriate procedures.
  • Perform and support AUV / ROV personnel evaluations and competence training plans.
  • Liaison and communicate with the shoreside management, shipboard lead personnel and collaborating scientists, related to operational tasks.
  • Complete system and science cruise paperwork (e.g. technical/status/safety reports, dive logs, etc.).
  • Inventory and stock control of the system spares and consumables.
  • Perform other technical services, as and when needed, in relation to the mission of the vessel.
  • Be familiar with all assigned safety and security duties, both at sea and in port.

Specific requirements for this position:

  • Technical qualification in one of the following: Electrical/Electronics, Mechanics/Mechatronics or relevant certificate of competency.
  • The ability to demonstrate the relevant AUV / ROV experience (2+ years)
  • The ability to perform maintenance and repairs on electronic, electrical, optical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems including the use of test equipment
  • Computer Hardware/Software/Operating Systems Knowledge
  • Good AUV / ROV Operational Skills
  • Knowledge of appropriate steps to analytical problem solving
  • Ability to establish and maintain project priorities
  • Wear PPE for body, skin, vision, and hearing protection
  • Work at heights wearing fall protection PPE
  • Climb stairs/ladders, stand, balance, stoop, squat, reach, and lift/carry objects
  • Align with and embrace the Schmidt Entities Core Values

Desirable additional skills/qualifications:

  • At-sea AUV and ROV experience.

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.