Position Overview:
The Ocean Technologist will play a crucial role in supporting the BMSC’s mission by maintaining research equipment, laboratories, and oceanographic instruments. This position reports to the Head of Research Services (HRS) and collaborates closely with Research Services and the BMSC team to grow our capacity to support oceanographic research, ensure the seamless operation of our research facilities and equipment, and to ensure outstanding services to our researcher and students at the station.
Key Responsibilities:
- Equipment Maintenance: manage the maintenance of oceanographic instruments such as temperature loggers and/or arrays, continuous flow through systems, CTDs, hydrophones, current profilers and Acoustic Zooplankton Fish Profilers.
- Repairs and Servicing: Manage the repair and servicing of equipment both onsite and externally as needed, calibrating equipment, maintaining accurate service records, and monitoring for QAQC. Perform some repairs on-site, where possible, and coordinate with instrument manufacturers for off-site repairs.
- Sourcing and Procurement: Identify and source parts and new instruments as required.
- Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs): Develop and implement SOPs for the use and maintenance of equipment.
- Research Support: Assist incoming researchers in setting up research spaces and equipment.
- Training: Provide training on the proper use and maintenance of equipment.
- Fieldwork and Data Collection: Conduct fieldwork to collect oceanographic data using various sampling techniques and equipment.
- Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with researchers, faculty, and students on research projects. Communicate technical information effectively to non-technical staff and stakeholders.
- Boat Handling and Safety: Operate small boats used in fieldwork. Ensure adherence to safety protocols during field operations.
Desired Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Science (preferably oceanography) or equivalent with at least three years of relevant work experience.
- Proven experience troubleshooting technical issues (both mechanical and electrical) with laboratory and oceanographic equipment.
- WHMIS training and competence in chemical safety protocols.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think independently, creatively and critically.
- Familiarity with a range of instruments, including but not limited to CTDs, hydrophones, current profilers and Acoustic Zooplankton Fish Profilers.
- Advanced data management and IT skills. Demonstrated proficiency in using advanced computer applications and software tools relevant to oceanographic research, including proficiency with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, R, GIS).
- Basic familiarity with electronics and micro-controllers (e.g. relays and serial port communications)
- SVOP and experience operating small vessels in an ocean environment (or a willingness to learn).
- Ability to independently find solutions based on assessment of instrument manuals, on-line technical resources and other relevant support materials.
- An interest in advancing marine sciences and the collection of high-quality ocean data.
Application Deadline: Open until filled
