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 – ROV Senior Supervisor

Tendering:

  • Start date for tendering position: 4 May 2026
  • End date for tendering position: 30 June 2026
  • Start date: 01 September 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: ROV Senior Supervisor
  • Duration: Permanent
  • Work Place: Falkor (too) – Specifications Link
  • Rotation: Approximately 60 days on/off.
  • Paid Leave: One day of paid leave accrued per one day worked.
  • Medical Insurance: Yes, an individual policy with worldwide coverage.
  • Flights: Company paid economy class flights from home airport to and from the vessel.
  • Accommodation: Assigned cabin with an en suite bathroom.
  • 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 a multi-national and enthusiastic crew who have a good team spirit and positive “can do” attitude.

What we look for:

  • Enthusiastic, safety conscious shipmate who shares in the team spirit on board (it is extremely important that the candidate will fit in with the crew).
  • Capable to conduct tasks independently and perform to the highest professional standards.
  • 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 cruise.
  • Interest in oceanographic science and a positive attitude towards a healthy and resilient marine environment.
  • Thinking outside the box; new ideas and initiatives which are realistic and viable are always welcome.

Job Description:

  • Perform, supervise and support the conducting of all ROV at-sea and dockside operations, including any defined maintenance periods, as well as system integrations as directed by the Company’s Shoreside Science Support Services Senior Manager.
  • Provide guidance to other ROV crewmembers within the vessel’s Science Department and all other applicable crewmembers ensuring they are appropriately trained for at-sea operations and competent for tasks undertaken.
  • Ensure all ROV operations are carried out in accordance with appropriate procedures; assist in the development of procedures where necessary.
  • Ensure ROV operational processes and procedures are suitable and updated.
  • Perform and support ROV personnel evaluations, competency training plans and ongoing development.
  • Liaison and communicate on topics related to operational tasks with the Science Support Services Senior Manager, Company management, the vessel’s Science Department Head of Department and other vessel HODs, and the collaborating Scientific Personnel.
  • Perform the fitment of ROVs with additional scientific sensors, samplers, sonars, tools, spares, etc.
  • Complete system and science cruise paperwork (e.g. inventory, technical / status / safety reports, dive logs, etc.) as directed by Science Support Services Senior Manager.
  • Inventory and stock control of the system spares and consumables.
  • Perform Supervisory duties as required.
  • Perform other technical services, as and when needed, in relation to the mission of the Ship.
  • Be familiar with all assigned safety and security duties, both at sea and in port.
  • Completion of system weekly technical and operational reports, as directed by Science Support Services Senior Manager.
  • Completion of system equipment order requisitions for all parts, sensors, tools and consumables, discuss & review weekly with the Science Department’s Head of Department, onshore technical support and Science Support Services Senior Manager, prior to submission.
  • Evaluate cruise staffing levels and dive plans at-sea and assign the ROV crewmembers shifts.
  • Oversee and sign-off on competencies as completed by junior ROV crew for final review and approval by the Science Support Services Senior Manager
  • Oversee and liaise with on-shore technical support as required
  • Attend pre-cruise planning meetings as required
  • Attend post-cruise debriefs as required
  • Provide lessons learned documentation from post cruise assessments
  • Liaise with Science Support Services Senior Manager and shoreside technical staff on future developments and improvements

Specific requirements for this position:

  • Technical Qualification in one of the following: Electrical/Electronics, Mechanics/Mechatronics or the relevant certificate of competency.
  • The ability to demonstrate the relevant ROV experience (5+ 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
  • Excellent ROV Piloting & Manipulator 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 and ladders, stand, balance, stoop, squat, reach, and lift and carry objects
  • Align with and embrace the Schmidt Entities’ Core Values

Desirable additional skills/qualifications:

  • AUV Experience
  • Offshore Scientific Operational Experience

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