Small Research Vessel Captain, Palmer Station, Antarctica

About the role

The Marine Division of the Antarctic Support Contract at Leidos is hiring a Small Research Vessel Captain to work at Palmer Station, Antarctica during the austral summer season (October to April). The captain supports all waterfront operations at the station, advises Station Management on marine matters and acts as one of three resident professional mariners. Deployment to Antarctica may be required at management's discretion (about 6 months per year), and the candidate must complete the physical and dental examinations required by the NSF.

Key responsibilities

• Operate and maintain a fleet of about fifteen active small boats, plus reserve vessels, and the two 30-foot research vessels in the program
• Launch and recover small boats by trailer, oversee maintenance of trailers, inboard diesels, hydraulics, outboard motors and inflatable boats
• Provide marine safety training to station personnel, covering seamanship, navigation, radio protocol, small boat handling, float plans, rough weather and sea ice operations, cold water survival and more
• Maintain daily operation records (vessel logs, situation reports, fuel usage, maintenance, launch/recovery and turnover reports)
• Prepare documentation for boating operations, including JHAs and standard operating procedures
• Maintain spares inventory, inspect safety, lifesaving and firefighting equipment, and handle mooring maintenance and shop area cleanliness

Required profile

• Active NSF Public Trust security clearance (can take up to 4 months to obtain); US citizenship is required
• USCG Captain's license; equivalent experience accepted when no 30-foot RHIBs are present
• At least three years as a captain, or equivalent experience in vessel maintenance
• At least two years driving motorized small vessels and maintaining small vessel systems and hulls
• Commercial marine experience (merchant marine, fisheries, boatyards) is preferred
• College coursework in marine or a science-related field, high-latitude experience and experience with oceanographic sampling equipment are a plus

Required skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of small vessel operation, trailering, troubleshooting and maintenance
• Ability to repair and troubleshoot engines and machinery, including 4-stroke outboards, diesel and inflatables
• Independent problem-solving, multi-tasking and excellent verbal and written communication

Pay range: $87,100 to $157,450.