Telemetry Technician

Ocean Tracking Network; Halifax; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Ocean Tracking Network (OTN) seeks a Telemetry Technician I to oversee operation, preparation, deployment, maintenance and data retrieval of acoustic monitoring systems. The role requires travel and time at sea, with independent and team work in variable field conditions.

The position emphasizes mission planning, equipment refurbishment, data processing, and partner training, with emphasis on safety and documentation. Unionized environment noted.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in marine biology, engineering, oceanography, or related field; advanced diploma in ocean technology preferred.
• Experience: 2 years’ experience working with acoustic telemetry, tagging, oceanographic monitoring, or related areas.
• Specialized knowledge of acoustic telemetry research and technology, including study design and field operations.
• Knowledge of oceanographic monitoring equipment (CTDs, temperature/tilt loggers).

Responsibilities

• Mission planning and execution (50%).
• Equipment operations and maintenance (30%).
• Data management and documentation (20%).
• Training and technical support (10%).

Job description

Reports to: Telemetry Operations Manager

Term Duration: 1 year, with strong possibility of renewal

The Ocean Tracking Network (OTN) is an aquatic research organization headquartered at Dalhousie University, and one of six Major Research Facilities funded by the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI)—and the only CFI national research infrastructure based in Atlantic Canada. Since 2008, OTN has been deploying innovative ocean monitoring equipment and marine autonomous vehicles (gliders) across key ocean and freshwater locations in Canada and around the world.

OTN is a pan-Canadian and global leader in marine animal tracking and oceanographic monitoring, supporting key federal priorities in ocean science, innovation, climate resilience, and economic development. Through its technical expertise, infrastructure, and cross-sectoral partnerships, OTN underpins these national priorities by advancing ocean observing capabilities, supporting evidence‑based marine management, and training a highly skilled workforce.

JOB PURPOSE:

OTN has over 8,000 users globally and partners with researchers, governments, industry, and Indigenous and coastal communities to advance how we understand and study the ocean. OTN’s telemetry team provides highly specialized technical support to partners across Canada and internationally and utilize cutting edge equipment to revolutionize how we understand the ocean.

Working on the OTN telemetry team, the Telemetry Technician I 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 OTN’s acoustic monitoring infrastructure and related oceanographic equipment. The position requires regular travel and extended periods of time in the field and at sea. The individual must be able to work well independently and as part of a team while adapting to changing conditions in the field.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Mission planning and execution (50%)

• Plan, prepare, and lead at‑sea missions, often in harsh and remote environments.
• Conduct mission logistics, mobilization, transportation and operations.
• Design of mooring systems in accordance with regional conditions to ensure safe and effective placement of receivers.
• Complete mission reports and documentation in a timely manner and to a high standard.
• Prepare, pack, and ship equipment around the globe, in accordance with Dalhousie and Transport Canada standards, including abiding by dangerous goods protocols (dangerous goods certification is required and will be provided). Liaise with Dalhousie Customs department and courier services. Ensure all documentation, including customs and dangerous goods documentation, is provided with each shipment.

Equipment Operations and Maintenance (30%)

• Refurbish of equipment in‑house according to manufacturer specifications. Troubleshoot equipment failures and repair accordingly.
• Retrieve data from acoustic receivers and upload to the OTN database. Work with the OTN data and project management teams to maintain up to date reporting and inventory.
• Become a product expert for new and existing equipment and devices, including sourcing, integration, operation, identifying limitations and conveying best practices to OTN team.

Data Management and Documentation (20%)

• Record and complete mission metadata.
• Process and archive mission outputs including video, sonar, and related datasets.
• Work with the OTN Data Centre (OTNDC) to upload data and footage to OTN servers.
• Ensure proper documentation, organization, and storage procedures are followed.

Training and Technical Support (10%)

• Train external partners on the proper use, deployment, and recovery of acoustic receivers and associated equipment.
• Provide technical guidance related to telemetry equipment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in marine biology, engineering, oceanography, or related field; advanced diploma in ocean technology preferred.
• Experience: 2 years’ experience working with acoustic telemetry, tagging, oceanographic monitoring, or related areas.

Specialized knowledge

• Working knowledge of acoustic telemetry research and technology, including study design, mission planning and field operations
• Familiarity with oceanographic monitoring equipment such as CTDs, temperature and tilt loggers.
• Knowledge of the interdisciplinary ocean research and management landscape.

Skills and Abilities

• Comfortable working at sea in inclement weather conditions.
• Physically fit and able to safely lift greater than 30kg.
• Able to operate small vessels (SVOP required).
• Possess a valid drivers license and be comfortable operating 1-ton trucks while towing trailers.
• Experience launching trailered vessels up to 30 feet in length
• Ability to operate a forklift.
• Safe operation of hand and power tools.
• Able to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to identify, assess, and mitigate hazards.
• Good communication skills and ability to liaise with fishers, vessel captains, researchers, industry representatives, and other stakeholders.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges in field environments.
• Able to pass Mariners medical Examination.

NOTE:

This is a unionized position. 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.