Research Vessel Engineer

VIMS1 Virginia Institute of Marine Science; United States; On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Institute of Marine Science is seeking a Research Vessel Engineer to maintain propulsion, electrical and hydraulic systems on the 93 ft R/V Virginia. The role reports to the Captain and supports vessel operations, maintenance and scientific missions. Compliance with USCG regulations is required.

The position emphasizes hands-on mechanical work, preventative maintenance, and collaboration with deck and research teams aboard the vessel.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in maritime industry (vessels, shipyards or similar).
• Experience with marine diesel engines and electrical/mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Monitor propulsion and auxiliary systems aboard the vessel.
• Perform routine preventative and corrective maintenance.
• Maintain engineering logs and maintenance records.
• Assist with deck operations and loading/unloading of equipment.
• Participate in emergency drills and safety procedures.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Safety minded

Teamwork

Ability to lift 50 pounds

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Merchant Mariner Credential (USCG)

Tools

CMMS

Basic deck equipment operation

Job description

Job Requisition: JR102182 Research Vessel Engineer (Open) Job Posting Title: Research Vessel Engineer Department: CC00491 VIMS1 | RADV | Field Operations Job Family: Staff - Lab & Research Support Worker Sub-Type: Regular (benefited) Job Requisition Primary Location: Watermen's Hall Primary Job Posting Location: Posting Location - VIMS Gloucester

School Mission Statement

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) has a three-part mission of research, education, and advisory service. Our over-arching goals are to:

• Make seminal advances in understanding marine systems through research and discovery.
• Translate research findings into practical solutions to complex issues of societal importance.
• Provide new generations of researchers, educators, problem solvers, and managers with a coastal and marine sciences education of unsurpassed quality.

Unit Mission Statement

The Marine Operations Department is comprised of a dedicated group of professionals whose primary function is to provide safe access to the marine environment for all students, staff, faculty and other users and to support the needs of these users as they relate to vessels, field support services, instrument fabrication, equipment repair and servicing. This is a developmental engineering position intended for individuals with strong mechanical aptitude and experience maintaining diesel engines, marine systems, or industrial equipment. VIMS Marine Operations will provide mentoring and professional development opportunities to prepare the successful candidate for increasing engineering responsibilities within the research fleet.

Job Description: Position Summary

The Vessel Engineer position serves aboard R/V Virginia (93 ft) and reports to the Captain while supporting the safe operations, maintenance, repair and inspection of the vessel’s propulsion, auxiliary, electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems. The position also support deck operations and scientific mission as required. The Vessel Engineer follows all established VIMS policies and procedures and performs their duties in a professional manner that is in line with best marine practices. Adheres to all United States Coast Guard regulations applicable to the position.

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Monitor propulsion, electrical, hydraulic, fuel, freshwater, HVAC, and auxiliary systems.
• Conduct rounds and record machinery operating parameters.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and corrective maintenance under the direction of the Chief Engineer.
• Maintain engineering logs and maintenance records.
• Assist with fueling operations and pollution prevention procedures.
• Maintain engine room cleanliness and compliance with safety standards.
• Participate in emergency drills and casualty response.
• Assist with loading, securing, deployment, and recovery of scientific equipment.
• Support deck operations including line handling, small boat operations, crane and winch operations as trained.
• Assist in cleaning and maintaining the vessel.
• Assist with basic galley duties, including meal preparation, food service, and maintaining a clean and organized galley during research missions.
• Assist Marine Operations with maintenance and repairs on other vessels and facilities when assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Education High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Wiper or OS endorsement or the ability to obtain within the first six months of hire.
• Experience Experience working in the maritime industry including, but not limited to, commercial fishing vessels, tugboats, small boat marinas or shipyards.
• Experience performing preventative and corrective maintenance on marine diesel engines and auxiliary machinery.
• Experience with shipboard electrical and mechanical systems.
• Experience maintaining diesel engines, mechanical equipment, industrial machinery, heavy equipment, marine systems, or similar technical equipment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Ability to learn vessel engineering systems and perform preventative maintenance.
• Ability to work safely in hot/confined spaces and adverse weather conditions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to work extended hours, weekends, holidays, and overnight voyages.
• Ability to pass required pre-employment and random drug testing.
• Knowledge of basic deck operations including, but not limited to handling mooring lines, tag lines, securing equipment on deck, assisting in the deployment and recovery of gear.
• Basic understanding of vessel operating principles and practices, and familiarity with the operation of deck equipment such as winches, deck cranes and frames.
• Strong communication and interactive skills, with the ability to work with diverse groups.
• Sufficient strength and physical dexterity to perform all responsibilities while being exposed to inclement weather at sea for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to work long days (more than 12 hours) weekends and holidays.
• Ability to work in hot/confined spaces.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education Merchant Mariner Credential with QMED certification issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
• Valid STCW credential appropriate for vessel tonnage.
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Experience Experience working on research vessels or supporting science at sea.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities QMED-Oiler, Junior Engineer, or Electrician endorsement.
• Wiper or OS endorsement (Special or Unlimited).
• Forklift certification.
• Small boat operator experience.
• Experience supporting scientific research missions.
• Familiarity with Caterpillar marine diesel engines.
• Experience using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Familiarity with Safety Management Systems or risk-based marine safety programs.
• Experience: Experience working on research vessels or supporting science at sea.

Salary:

$50,000 commensurate with experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

Conditions of Employment:

Working during nights, weekends, and over time (beyond 40 hours per week) will be required, based on vessel charters. Occasional work in adverse weather conditions, physical lifting requirements essential to the job, etc., will also be required.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

Engineering Operations – 60%

Operate, monitor, and maintain vessel propulsion systems and auxiliary machinery to support safe and reliable vessel operations. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on engines, mechanical systems, and associated equipment in accordance with established maintenance procedures. Conduct routine machinery inspections to identify equipment deficiencies, abnormal operating conditions, and potential maintenance needs. Maintain engineering spaces in a clean, organized, and operationally ready condition, ensuring equipment and work areas meet established safety standards. Complete and maintain accurate machinery logs documenting equipment operations, inspections, maintenance activities, and identified mechanical concerns.

Vessel Operations – 30%

Assist with routine deck operations and vessel activities to support safe and efficient operations while underway and in port. Handle mooring lines and assist with vessel docking, undocking, and securing procedures in accordance with established safety practices. Operate deck machinery and associated equipment as qualified and authorized to support vessel operations. Support scientific research operations by assisting with vessel equipment, deck activities, and other operational needs associated with research missions.

Other Responsibilities – 10%

Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation of completed work, equipment servicing, and identified repair needs. Participate in required vessel safety drills, emergency preparedness activities, and emergency response procedures. Assist with departmental maintenance projects and related operational activities to support vessel readiness and equipment reliability. Perform other duties as assigned in support of vessel operations and departmental needs.

Additional Job Description

Job Profile: JP0289 - Watercraft Operator I - Nonexempt - Salary - S06 Qualifications: Compensation Grade: S06 Recruiting Start Date: 2026-10-27 Position Restrictions: Continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal

Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

Applicant Notice: By applying for this position, you consent to William & Mary's use, review, and retention of your application materials for recruitment and employment purposes. Materials may be shared with authorized individuals participating in the hiring process and will be managed in accordance with applicable laws and university policies.

Probationary Period Notice: Individuals selected for full-time staff positions will be required to complete a twelve (12) month probationary period in accordance with university policy.

Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

William & Mary and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) are vibrant, innovative and engaged communities and we are delighted about your interest in a career with us. Please be aware Workday has weekly downtimes and will be unavailable Fridays starting at 9:00 p.m. through Saturdays at noon (ET) for scheduled maintenance. During this time, the portal will be closed and will not accept applications.

William & Mary offers a competitive range of benefits that support employee well‑being and professional growth, including access to on‑campus fitness facilities, university libraries, and other wellness resources. Educational assistance, professional development opportunities, and a robust holiday schedule are also available. Learn more and explore our comprehensive benefits website.