Maritime Vessel Operations

Vatn Systems; Tiverton (RI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Vatn Systems is seeking a Maritime Vessel Operations specialist to provide hands-on support for UAV testing and waterfront facility operations in Rhode Island. The role involves operating support vessels, transporting personnel and equipment, and assisting test engineers with setup, launch, and recovery of UAV systems.

You will perform basic vessel maintenance, keep logs, and ensure safety during on-water testing while coordinating waterfront logistics and equipment staging in a dynamic, outdoor

Qualifications

• Experience operating small boats in coastal or harbor environments.
• Valid boating license or certification (e.g., USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) preferred or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of maritime safety practices and navigation rules.
• Ability to lift and move equipment (50+ lbs) and work in outdoor marine conditions.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate small and larger vessels up to 74’ (RHIBs and larger work boats) to support UAV testing and maritime operations (plus if comfortable operating larger support vessels)
• Transport personnel, equipment, and UAV’s between testing facility and test locations
• Assist test engineers with setup, launch, recovery, and troubleshooting of UAV systems
• Provide on‑water safety oversight during testing activities
• Support waterfront logistics, including staging equipment, fueling, and inventory coordination
• Perform basic vessel maintenance and pre‑/post‑operation checks
• Maintain operational readiness of docks and support equipment
• Keep accurate logs of vessel usage, fuel, and operational activities
• Assist with general facility upkeep and maritime support tasks as needed

Skills

Boat handling

Maritime safety

USCG license

Equipment handling

Teamwork

Communication

Job description

Position Overview

The Maritime Vessel Operations position provides hands‑on support for UAV testing and waterfront facility operations. This role is responsible for operating support vessels between 20’ and 74’, assisting test engineers during maritime UAV operations and logistics across the waterfront site. The ideal candidate is comfortable working on the water, mechanically inclined, and able to support dynamic test environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate small and larger vessels up to 74’ (RHIBs and larger work boats) to support UAV testing and maritime operations (plus if comfortable operating larger support vessels)
• Transport personnel, equipment, and UAV’s between testing facility and test locations
• Assist test engineers with setup, launch, recovery, and troubleshooting of UAV systems
• Provide on‑water safety oversight during testing activities
• Support waterfront logistics, including staging equipment, fueling, and inventory coordination
• Perform basic vessel maintenance and pre‑/post‑operation checks
• Maintain operational readiness of docks and support equipment
• Keep accurate logs of vessel usage, fuel, and operational activities
• Assist with general facility upkeep and maritime support tasks as needed

Required Qualifications

• Experience operating small boats in coastal or harbor environments
• Valid boating license or certification (e.g., USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) preferred or equivalent)
• Strong understanding of maritime safety practices and navigation rules
• Ability to lift and move equipment (50+ lbs) and work in outdoor marine conditions
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort with tools and equipment
• Strong communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting test operations, field engineering, or R&D environments
• Familiarity with UAV systems or marine robotics
• Marine safety certifications (e.g., First Aid/CPR, STCW Basic Training)
• Experience with trailering, launching, and recovering vessels
• Forklift or rigging experience

Key Competencies

• Reliability and safety-first mindset
• Ability to adapt in fast‑paced, changing test environments
• Strong situational awareness on the water
• Hands‑on problem solving and initiative

Working Conditions

• Outdoor, waterfront‑based role with regular on‑water operations
• Exposure to varying weather and sea conditions
• Occasional early mornings, extended days, or weekend work depending on test schedules

Vatn is an equal opportunity employer.