EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
R/V Pelican Chief Mate/Relief Captain
Review of applications will commence immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) located in Cocodrie, Louisiana operates a 116 ft. oceanographic research vessel, R/V Pelican, and is currently accepting applications for a Chief Mate. The vessel is homeported at LUMCON. The Chief Mate is under the general supervision of the ship’s captain, performs various functions pertaining to the operation and maintenance for the vessel, waterfront maintenance, fieldwork and related lab research projects, and serves as Relief Captain as needed.
Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist Captain in the operation of the vessel including steering; maneuvering; electronics, visual piloting and navigation using advanced technology; cargo handling and storage; handling lines, docking and departing; use of deck machinery; checking for water-tightness and normal machinery operation; launching, operating, and recovery of ship’s small vessel.
- Operate ship’s radio, radar, depth sounders, onboard computer-based acquisition system, and/or other appropriate equipment and advanced technology as required.
- Perform various vessel maintenance activities including deck and equipment repairs; cleaning, painting, and lubricating deck machinery, blocks, tackle, and other painted surfaces; making periodic checks on various equipment.
- Perform various waterfront maintenance tasks including dock cleaning and maintenance.
- Assist in fieldwork sampling activities including oceanographic research work and repair of sampling equipment.
- Participate in ongoing research projects as necessary.
- Serve as Relief Captain, as required, including supervising other crew members and scientists, providing indoctrination and safety instruction and drills.
- Perform various “office management” duties with a working knowledge of both Microsoft Word and Excel software.
- Responsible for the strict adherence to purchase protocols; procuring bids, completing appropriate forms, filing appropriate forms, turning in essential receipts and associated approved paperwork in the prescribed time period.
- Capable of confidently operating in the capacity of Relief Captain up to 80 days/year.
- Perform other related duties, as assigned.
Minimum Acceptable Qualifications
- High school graduation and three years of experience in vessel operation
- Appropriate USCG Operator’s license required
- Experience and knowledge of coastal waters between South Florida and South Texas
- Supervisory skills
- Sufficient strength and physical dexterity to perform duties and responsibilities of this job including heavy lifting with exposure to inclement weather conditions for prolonged periods of time
- Must live within a 3-hour drive from LUMCON, or be willing to relocate after a trial period. Trial period TBD at the discretion of the Captain
- Ability to wear and use appropriate personal protective equipment, as necessary
- Must pass drug and alcohol screening tests as mandated by Department of Transportation agency regulations
Additional Desirable Qualifications
- Courses or a degree in Marine Sciences or related field
- ***The position requires extended periods of time at sea
Compensation
- Pay commensurate with experience and qualifications
Application
Address your cover letter and resume to:
R. Ross Turlington
Port Captain, Marine Vessel Operations
8124 Hwy 56, Chauvin, LA 70344
rturlington@lumcon.edu
Start Date
The position is available immediately.
Review of applications will commence immediately and continue until the position is filled.
LUMCON is an AA/EO employer.