ob Description
Working Title- Research Vessel Captain
Classification- Scientific Technician 4
Job Status- Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment Length- 12 Months –June 15, 2026 – June 15, 2027
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Fish Science Division
Duty Station- *Port Townsend, Washington – Jefferson County
- Depending on the successful candidate, a duty station of Mill Creek, Washington – Snohomish County, may also be considered.
Closing Date- 6/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
This is an opportunity to serve as the primary captain of the R/V Salish Rover, a 56-ft (52-ton) vessel used to conduct marine fish and ecosystem surveys throughout Puget Sound.
In this dynamic role, you will ensure the safe operation and maintenance of a technologically sophisticated research vessel, supporting critical ecosystem and population monitoring work in the marine environment.
You are excited to support innovation in marine technology, enable high-quality scientific data collection, and directly contribute to the monitoring and recovery of marine species, including ESA-listed rockfish.
WHAT TO EXPECT -
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
Serves as the lead captain of the R/V Salish Rover in support of marine population and ecosystem surveys.
- Operating/piloting the R/V Salish Rover on multi-day research cruises, navigating throughout Puget Sound, identifying safe overnight anchorages, and adjusting plans according to changing weather and/or ocean conditions.
- Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover power, propulsion, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, gray/blackwater, fire control, lifesaving (life raft, EPIRB, etc.), and communication systems are maintained in good working order.
- Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover hull, superstructure, and crane are maintained in good working order and regularly inspected.
- Continuously monitors VHF radio communications with the USCG and other vessels, including emergency and working channels, to ensure collision avoidance and prompt response to safety broadcasts.
- Maintaining effective communication with crew and scientific staff during docking, transiting complex waterways (e.g. the Ballard Locks), and deploying scientific equipment, while following standard operating procedures and ensuring all personnel adhere to safety and operational protocols.
- Maintaining and archiving vessel log and maintenance records.
Serve as the unit’s marine vessel safety lead.
- Developing and conducts at-sea safety drills relevant to larger vessel for unit staff, which may include cold-water immersion training, MOB, fire suppression, etc.
- Attaining/maintaining vessel drill instructor training and/or certification through a relevant maritime safety organization such as AMSEA, or similar.
- Reviewing and providing expert input on safety training manuals in development, as needed by the safety office.
Assists with other Marine Fish Science surveys and research.
- Participates in WDFW biennial bottom trawl survey for four weeks every other year, assists with catch processing, data collection and entry, and vessel operation.
- Assists with other research as needed, potentially including hook and line sampling, collection of genetic material (i.e. fin clips), data entry, operation of acoustic and/or sonar equipment, etc.
- Assists senior staff with writing agency documents and scientific papers as needed and time allows.
Working Conditions:
Work setting: This position performs a mix of both office and field tasks.
Physical and environmental requirements:
- Lift and carry equipment up to 70 pounds.
- Operates vessel greater than 50 gross metric tons in rough seas, high winds while exposed to cold or hot weather and/or slippery deck conditions.
- Navigates tight channels, locks, and other hazardous waterways.
- Operates a crane and hauls loads up to 1000 lbs.
- Uses sharp objects to collect samples, such as scalpels, scissors, or fishhooks.
- Works with electrical wiring and electronic equipment.
- Works on and around engines, in confined spaces, around hydraulic equipment, and machinery with moving parts.
- Exposed to sustained, loud noises that require hearing protection.
- This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: full-time, working 40 hours per week as the standard work schedule. It is typical for weeks with multi-day vessel trips to exceed 40 hours per week and for days to exceed 10 hours. Weekend work may be required infrequently. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel requirements: Frequent multi-day trips on vessels throughout Puget Sound – up to 50% of time may be spent traveling for vessel-related fieldwork. Infrequent overnight travel to other areas of Washington, for up to 1 week at a time, may occur to attend conferences, trainings, teach MOCC, assist with fieldwork, etc.
Customer Interactions: May interact with WDFW customers, members of the public, project partners, business and vendors, and tribal governments. Infrequently may encounter hostile interactions requiring an ability to remain calm, professional, and diplomatic.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent.
AND all of the following:
- Current USCG Master’s license commensurate with operating a 52-ton research vessel in Puget Sound (e.g. Master 100 GRT Near Coastal or greater).
- At least seven (7) years of documented sea service on vessels of comparable tonnage and operating area, including a minimum of three (3) years of service in a supervisory or command capacity.
- Valid Driver's License.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Bachelor’s degree in fisheries biology, marine biology, oceanography, natural resource management, environmental science, or related field.
At least ten (10) years of documented sea service on vessels of comparable tonnage and operating area, including a minimum of five (5) years of service in a supervisory or command capacity.
Two (2) years or more of relevant professional experience in the following areas:
Vessel Operations, Navigation, & Maintenance
- Operating vessels in support of scientific research activities.
- Navigating Puget Sound waterways, including knowledge of regional tides, currents, and weather patterns.
- Exercising sound judgment and decision-making in dynamic or high-pressure conditions.
- Diagnosing and addressing mechanical issues at sea, including marine diesel engines and associated systems (e.g., fuel, cooling, hydraulics).
- Troubleshooting and repairing vessel electrical systems, including safe integration and operation of scientific equipment.
- Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting deck and hydraulic systems (e.g., winches, cranes, trawl gear, lifting equipment).
- Demonstrated ability to safely resolve equipment or vessel system issues during multi-day operations without immediate access to shore-based support.
Scientific Operations
- Deploying or assisting with deployment of scientific equipment (e.g., CTDs, ROVs, drop cameras, eDNA/water sampling systems, nets, hydroacoustic equipment).
- Familiarity with scientific data collection practices and working collaboratively with research staff.
- Familiarity with Pacific Northwest marine fish species.
Safety, Leadership, & Communication
- Exercising clear authority for vessel and crew safety.
- Conducting routine safety drills (e.g., fire, man overboard, abandon ship).
- Promoting a strong onboard safety culture for mixed scientific and vessel crews.
- Communicating effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
- Resolving conflict constructively and working effectively within interdisciplinary teams.
- Proficiency with standard computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office), participating in professional meetings, and representing an Agency or organization in public and professional contexts.
Your application must include the following:
- A COMPLETED online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three (3) professional references with current contact information.
