R/V Falkor (too) – Hiring Job Information – Assistant Bosun

SPS Maritime Ltd operates the 110.6 m globally operating research vessel FALKOR (too) for Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI). 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.

Tendering:
Start date for tendering position: 27 August 2025
End date for tendering position: 12 September 2025
Start date: 08 November 2025, (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: Assistant Bosun
● Permanent Position: there is potential that this could become Full Time employment
● 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
● Probation Period: 3 months.
● Training: The Company provides training based on position, vessel requirements and other factors.
● Interesting deep sea ocean science work on a 110 m length research vessel (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.

Job Description:
● Reporting to Bosun and Chief Officer.
● Forming part of a navigational watch.
● Steel preparation with manual tools and power tools (needle guns, grinders, etc.).
● Painting (vessel uses International and Jotun paint products).
● Washing down of the open decks and assisting the Interior Department team with cleaning, as required.
● Assisting with, driving and launching/recovering vessel’s workboat, rescue boat (jet- and propeller-driven propulsion), lifeboats and liferafts
● Operating vessel’s deck cranes (including 150T offshore crane), science A-Frame and J-Frame, overboarding systems and deck machinery.
● Assisting scientists with overboard operations (e.g. deployment/recovery of scientific equipment).
● Assisting in provisioning, taking stores and garbage management.
● Responsible for arranging the collection/storage/incineration of garbage per vessel’s garbage management plan.
● Mentoring AB/OS positions within the Deck team, including delivery of training
• Other tasks, as directed by the Chief Officer and Bosun.

What we are looking 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 performed 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.

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

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 at sea.
• Offshore crane operator certification (Altrad-Sparrows or similar)

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter expressing interest and a comprehensive resume/CV that clearly illustrates why the candidate believes they are the ideal applicant for the position. Submit to falkorcrewing@schmidtocean.org