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.

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 Information – Marine Technician

Tendering: Start date for tendering position: 18 March 2026
End date for tendering position: 18 April 2026
Start date: 26 June 2026, (exact date TBD)
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: Marine Technician.
  • Permanent 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, 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 cruises 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:

  • MT report to the Lead Technician (LT). MTs provide an essential link between the ship’s crew, shoreside team, ROV team and special personnel. MTs provide support with a working knowledge of all science systems and expertise in a majority of the systems. MTs stand watch and lead or participate in projects.
  • Working under the direction of the LT to complete department objectives and provide excellent science support. Ensuring that department duties, projects, record keeping, reporting, inventory management, documentation and adherence to department conventions are achieved.
  • Assisting the LT and Science Services Manager (SSM) in the planning of cruises; contributing to department projects and upgrades; maintaining science systems; contributing to the implementation of department objectives and ensuring the achievement of key results.
  • Collaborating with scientists, ROV team, ship’s crew and shoreside staff to ensure safe and successful science missions. Acting as a liaison between these groups in order to highlight operational issues before they arise and to collaboratively provide solutions.
  • Instructing and assisting users of deck and laboratory scientific systems in safe operating procedures.
  • Collecting, quality assurance and curation of scientific and ROV systems data.
  • Operating, maintaining and calibrating science systems and instrumentation, including all associated hardware and software.
  • Working with the ROV team to ensure dive, data and outreach support through the creation of bathymetry products, data monitoring and the oversight of video streaming.
  • In coordination with the ship’s AVIT Engineers, maintaining and improving the ship’s scientific computer systems and networks.
  • Participating in the design, construction and implementation of new electronic and mechanical systems and assisting in the modification of existing systems in order to fulfill evolving needs.
  • Overseeing the adherence to ship and laboratory safety protocols, including the proper use, documentation and storage of hazardous materials.
  • Facilitating science cruise mobilization and demobilization efforts. Being familiar with all assigned safety and security duties, both at sea and in port.
  • When not sailing, Marine Technicians may work remotely, attend training, or participate in field-related conferences. Their duties align with the “Knowledge and Skill Guidelines for Marine Technicians Who Work Aboard Research Vessels.” http://www.marinetech.org/files/marine/files/Workforce/KSG.OITfinal.9.10.10lr.pdf

Specific requirements for this position:
Advanced degree in marine science, engineering science or a combination of technical schooling and job experience.

Experience Desired: (It is understood that applicants may not have experience of the complete list)

  • At-sea experience supporting shipboard science aboard research vessels
  • Familiar with ROV operations Familiar with scientific autonomous vehicles (e.g. AUV, ASV, UAV, etc.)
  • Familiar with deck operations and over-the-side deployment and recovery of science equipment, winches and LARS
  • Demonstrated knowledge of marine circuitry
  • Advanced computer literacy required; computer programming and networking skills desired
  • Experienced in use of hand-held power tools
  • Installation, testing, operation, interpretation and maintenance of the following echo sounding systems:
    • EA640
    • EK80
    • EM712
    • EM124
    • SBP29
    • TRDI ADCPs
    • USBL Systems (Kongsberg HiPAP and Sonardyne Ranger 2)
    • KSYNC, SSU or similar acoustic synchronization system
  • Installation, testing, operation, interpretation and maintenance of the following multidisciplinary science systems:
    • Meteorological monitoring systems
    • Science navigation systems (e.g. Hypack and/or Winfrog)
    • Winch and wire monitoring systems
    • Underway seawater instrumentation
    • CTDs and water sampling systems
    • Shipboard data logging systems
    • Science navigation equipment (e.g. Seapath/PosMV/GNSS)
    • XBTs
    • Sound Velocity Profilers
  • Skills with various data acquisition and processing software:
    • CTD data processing
    • Qimera and Fledermaus
    • GIS
    • Windows/Linux/Mac operating systems

General Requirements for all crew:

  • Valid STCW95 Basic Safety Training
  • Valid Seafarer Medical Certificate (must be accepted by Cayman Islands)
  • Seafarer 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 detailed cover letter expressing interest and a comprehensive resume / CV that clearly illustrates why you are the ideal candidate for this particular position. Submit to Jobs at Sea Application Form