Academic Wage - Hourly: 2025-2026 Midsize Vessel Relief Master Pool

Oregon State University; Newport (OR); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings

Paid leave

Tuition reduction

Job summary

Oregon State University invites applications for a full-time Midsize Vessel Relief Master to oversee vessel operations and provide leadership aboard research vessels in Newport, Oregon. This role involves managing safety protocols, assisting scientific operations, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

The ideal candidate will possess a valid US Coast Guard Credential and extensive experience in vessel operations, demonstrating leadership and team collaboration skills necessary for success in this dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Valid US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential as Master of Vessels of 100 Tons or higher.
• Experience in vessel operations including navigation and equipment handling.
• Knowledge of marine safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Master-in-Charge during assigned relief periods.
• Lead all operational decisions to ensure safe navigation.
• Supervise crew and provide training on safety and operations.

Skills

Vessel Operations

Leadership

Marine Safety Protocols

Mentoring

Mechanical Maintenance

Education

US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential

Current STCW Certification

Tools

Navigational Tools

Job description

Academic Wage - Hourly: 2025-2026 Midsize Vessel Relief Master Pool

We invite applications for full‑time (1.00 FTE), 12‑month hourly academic wage positions as Midsize Vessel Relief Master. Positions will last up to one year from appointment date and will be located in Newport, Oregon.

Position Information

• Department: Ship Operations (OAS)
• Appointment Type: Academic Wage
• Location: Newport, Oregon

Job Summary

The Relief Master provides managerial, supervisory, professional, and operational leadership aboard OSU Mid‑Size Research Vessels. During assigned relief periods the relief master serves as Master‑in‑Command, holding ultimate responsibility for the safety of personnel, compliance with regulations, and effective conduct of shipboard operations. The Relief Master is the primary shipboard point of contact for the Chief Scientist and science party, assists in planning and executing voyages, oversees bridge and deck operations, and ensures scientific missions are supported safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Vessel Navigation and Operations (60%)
  • Serve as Master‑in‑Command during relief periods.
  • Lead all operational decisions and ensure safe navigation and maneuvering.
  • Use navigational tools (visual means, radar, GPS, fathometer, Electronic Chart System, charts, and navigation publications).
  • Direct vessel systems (winches, A‑frames, capstans) to support scientific operations.
  • Maintain official logbook and voyage documentation in compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure bridge and deck operations comply with USCG, UNOLS, and OSU standards.
  • Coordinate voyage reports and updates to Port Captain and Marine Operations Coordinator.
  • Conduct safety drills and maintain emergency preparedness.
• Scientific Operations and Coordination (20%)
  • Central coordination of scientific operations on board.
  • Assist in planning and executing research missions with Port Captain, Ship Operations Coordinator, and Chief Scientist.
  • Oversee safe handling and deployment of scientific equipment.
  • Guide and mentor scientific personnel and students with limited seagoing experience.
  • Maintain safety and consent documentation for embarked science parties.
  • Promote an inclusive environment aboard ship.
• Vessel and Equipment Maintenance (10%)
  • Ensure vessel and systems remain operational and seaworthy during relief periods.
  • Perform or supervise routine maintenance and minor repairs of propulsive, auxiliary, hydraulic, fuel, and water systems.
  • Inspect deck, safety, and operational equipment before and after each voyage.
  • Maintain maintenance and safety logs in compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
  • Coordinate with Port Captain and Port Engineer on identified maintenance needs.
• Personnel Supervision and Training (5%)
  • Supervise crew and relief personnel during voyages.
  • Provide voyage‑specific direction and training on operations, safety, and emergency response.
  • Ensure personnel maintain required readiness, watch schedules, and rest‑hour compliance.
  • Collaborate with Marine Personnel Coordinator and Port Captain to keep crew qualifications current.
  • Support professional development of personnel through leadership modeling.
• Additional Duties and Fleet Support (5%)
  • Provide temporary command or operational support on other OSU vessels as needed.
  • Assist with loading, securing, and adapting scientific equipment.
  • Participate in institutional training, drills, and compliance activities.
  • Perform duties assigned by Port Captain, Marine Superintendent, or Director of Marine Operations.

Qualifications

• Valid US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential as Master of Vessels of 100 Tons (Near Coastal) or higher.
• Compliance with USCG drug‑testing requirements.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Valid U.S. passport.
• Experience in vessel operations (navigation, maneuvering, equipment handling, mission support).
• Leadership and shipboard supervision experience (bridge management, safety drills, watch organization).
• Knowledge of marine safety protocols and regulatory requirements (USCG, UNOLS, mandatory).
• Physical ability to perform demanding tasks and work at sea in variable conditions.
• Mandate to work collaboratively in a diverse, team‑based environment.
• Availability for short‑notice, voyage‑based assignments including irregular hours, weekends, and overnights.
• Current Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certification.
• Mechanical, electrical, electronic, welding, or other specialized vessel maintenance skills.
• At least one year of research vessel operations experience (preferred).
• Advanced First Aid and CPR certification.
• Experience operating in Pacific Northwest and Alaska coastal waters.
• Demonstrated ability to train and mentor crew and science personnel.
• Adaptability to variable environmental and operational conditions.

Working Conditions & Schedule

• Must be at sea aboard OSU Mid‑Size Research Vessels for periods that may range from a few hours to several days, including up to ~30‑day voyages.
• Shift work is 7‑day per week; weekend and holiday work mandatory.
• Must be able to stand a navigation watch, perform continuous duties in rough sea conditions, and manage seasickness.
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 40 lb.
• Public health and communicable‑disease mitigation measures may apply.
• Must be willing to travel to/from other ports for mobilization or demobilization.

Benefits

The mandatory benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance (95 % premium paid), retirement savings, mandatory paid leave, mandatory tuition reduction, and standard mandatory work‑life programs. Additional optional lifestyle benefits may be available.

Application Process

• Attach the following electronic documents:
  • Resume or CV
  • Cover letter describing how your qualifications and experience prepare you for this position
  • Valid United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (front and back of card)
  • Proof of mandatory professional references (must include at least three references, with e‑mail addresses and telephone numbers)
• Resume and cover letter must be uploaded as standard PDF files (≤9 MB); larger files should be submitted via the contact person listed.
• Supporting documents must be received by the closing date if not uploaded with the application.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status. OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire. The position is designated as critical or security‑sensitive; selected candidates must complete a criminal history check and meet University Standard 05-010 et seq.

Supplemental Questions

OSU policy requires an inclusive and harassment‑free work environment. The master is responsible for ensuring this standard is met on board. Please confirm that you can uphold this requirement.