Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Technician

Dalhousie University; Halifax; On-site; CAD 64,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, invites applications for a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Technician with the Ocean Tracking Network. The role covers operation, deployment, maintenance and data retrieval of ROVs, side scan sonar, and telemetry moorings, supporting field programs on research vessels and offshore sites.

The ideal candidate has an undergraduate degree in marine sciences or engineering with related field experience and the ability to work at sea in variable

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in marine biology, oceanography, engineering or related field with 2+ years’ experience operating ROVs and side scan sonar.
• Working knowledge of ROV operations, data processing, and acoustic telemetry.
• Ability to operate small vessels and tow trailers up to 30 ft.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts and hand/power tools.
• Strong communication and problem-solving, with stakeholder collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead at-sea missions including logistics, mobilization and deployment.
• Operate, deploy and retrieve ROVs, side scan sonar, and telemetry moorings.
• Maintain and troubleshoot equipment and process mission data.
• Record metadata and manage video/sonar data per procedures.
• Lead demonstrations, workshops, and staff training on equipment use.
• Provide field support and complete required mission reports.

Skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Undergraduate degree in marine sciences

Advanced diploma in ocean technology

Tools

ROV operations

Side scan sonar

Telemetry moorings

Forklift operation

Power tools

Job description

Position Details

Position Information

Position Title

Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Technician

Research Project

Ocean Tracking Network

Department/Unit

Biology

Location

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Posting Number

S362-26

Employee Group

Grant-Paid (PSAC Local 86001)

Position Type

Term

Duration of Contract (if applicable)

1 year with possibility of extension

Employment Type

Full Time

Full-time Equivalency (FTE)

1.0

Salary

$63,646 - $80,594 per annum at 37.5 hours per week

About Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University is Atlantic Canada’s leading research-intensive university and a driver of the region’s intellectual, social and economic development. Located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, with an Agricultural Campus in Truro/Bible Hill, Dalhousie is a truly national and international university, with more than half of our almost 21,000 students coming from outside of the province. Our 6,000 faculty and staff foster a vibrant, purpose-driven community, that celebrated 200 years of academic excellence in 2018.

Job Summary

The Ocean Tracking Network ( OTN , http://oceantrackingnetwork.org/ ) is an international marine and freshwater monitoring platform that focuses on tracking the movements of aquatic animals in the context of a changing global environment. Established in 2008, OTN is one of six Major Research Facilities supported by the Canada Foundation for Innovation ( CFI ). Reporting to Telemetry Operations Manager, the ROV Technician is a key part of ensuring the smooth operation of OTN’s field program. This position is responsible for the operation, preparation, deployment, maintenance and data retrieval of the OTN fleet of ROVs, side scan sonar, telemetry moorings, and other equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and lead at-sea missions, including logistics, mobilization, transportation, equipment integration, and operational activities.
• Operate, deploy, and retrieve ROVs, side scan sonar, telemetry moorings, and associated field equipment.
• Perform and document routine and emergency maintenance, troubleshoot equipment issues, and support the integration and operation of new technologies.
• Record mission metadata and process, organize, archive, and upload video, sonar, and related mission data in accordance with established procedures.
• Lead ROV demonstrations, workshops, and exercises, and train field staff in the proper operation, care, and maintenance of equipment.
• Provide technical guidance and field support for ROV , side scan sonar, and telemetry operations, and complete required mission reports and documentation.

Note

This position requires regular travel and extended periods of time in the field and at sea.

Due to operational requirements, the successful applicant is required to work in-person on campus.

Required Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in marine biology, engineering, oceanography, or related field, with a minimum two years of experience operating and maintaining ROVs, side scan sonar, and related ocean monitoring equipment in a variety of marine environments (or an equivalent combination of training and experience).
• Working knowledge of ROV and side scan sonar operations, maintenance, and data processing, with an understanding of acoustic telemetry and oceanographic monitoring equipment.
• Ability to operate small vessels and launch trailered vessels up to 30 feet in length, with a valid driver’s license and comfort operating 1-ton trucks while towing trailers.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts, hand tools, and power tools, and to identify, assess, and mitigate hazards in field environments.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, with the ability to work effectively with fishers, vessel captains, researchers, industry representatives, and other stakeholders.
• Comfortable working at sea in inclement weather conditions; physically capable of safely lifting up to 30 kg and able to pass a Mariner’s Medical Examination.

Assets

• Advanced diploma in ocean technology.

Job Competencies

The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate proficiency in Dalhousie’s core and leadership competencies, in particular:

• Respect & Inclusion
• Adaptability
• Knowledge & Thinking Skills
• Communication
• Service

Additional Information

Dalhousie University supports a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Our total compensation package includes a voluntary RRSP , health and dental plans, a wellness allowance, an employee and family assistance program and a tuition assistance program.

Application Consideration

Non-probationary bargaining unit employees ( PSAC Local 86001) are given priority consideration. All other applications will be considered when there is no qualified candidate from the bargaining unit.

Full-time students currently enrolled at an educational institution are not eligible for regular Grant-Paid positions.

We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department or People and Culture.

Diversity Statement

Dalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mi’kmaq), persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and members of other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, women, persons identifying as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. In accordance with our Employment Equity Policy, preference will be given in hiring processes to candidates who self-identify as members of one or more of the equity-deserving groups listed above. For more information, including details related to our Employment Equity Policy and Plan and definitions of equity-deserving groups please review our Employment Equity information.

If you require any support for the purpose of accommodation, such as technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance. Dalhousie University is committed to ensuring all candidates have full, fair, and equitable participation in the hiring process. Our complete Accommodation Policy can be viewed here .

Posting Detail Information

Number of Vacancies 1

Open Date 10/30/2026

Close Date 11/06/2026

Open Until Filled No

Quick Link for Direct Access to Posting https://dal.peopleadmin.ca/postings/22456