Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Mooring Instrumentation Technician to join the Physical Oceanography Department. This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt and is eligible for full Benefits.
Testing, integration, and deployment of oceanographic/meteorological instrumentation. This includes mechanical assembly of buoys and mooring components and preparation and refurbishment of autonomous surface vehicles. Tasks include but are not limited to instrument configuration set up, troubleshooting of instrument problems, assembling hardware for field experiments, mechanical assembly of mooring platforms, and packing equipment for research cruises. This position requires participation on frequent oceanographic research cruises. The ability to work on and manage different tasks in parallel is essential.
The internal working title for this position could be either Engineer Assistant I or Engineering Assistant II. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience.
Essential Functions
- Functional testing and set-up of instruments
- Assist with cruise preparation
- Download of instruments data post-deployment
- Mechanical assembly of buoy and mooring components.
- Sandblasting, preparation and painting small components
- Packing equipment for research cruises creating detailed packing lists
- Assembling hardware for field experiments
- Interact with vendors for calibration, refurbishment and repair of instruments
- 3D printing of prototype parts
- Perform tasks as directed by supervisor
Experience
Engineering Assistant I:
With close supervision, uses established procedures to perform prescribed tasks related to the engineering support of oceanographic research.
Characteristic duties:
- Assists in assembly, maintenance, and repair of equipment with specific instructions and review of work upon completion
- Assists in functional testing of instrumentation following well-defined procedures for set-up and operation of standard test equipment.
Engineering Assistant II:
With some supervision, applies acquired knowledge of established procedures to the assembly, testing, and use of equipment in support of engineering projects related to oceanographic research.
Characteristic duties:
- Assists in assembly, maintenance, and repair of equipment with instruction and advice
- Exercises judgment in selecting or adapting procedures and equipment
- Selects and operates standard test equipment, records test data, and performs routine analyses
- Conducts various tests or experiments to troubleshoot and correct minor
Education
Engineering Assistant I:
High School or equivalent plus a minimum of one-year mechanical experience or technical school training, or some progress towards an engineering or related degree. Education in science is a plus. Education and experience will determine level of hire.
Engineering Assistant II:
High School or equivalent plus three years' mechanical or electronics experience, or Technical School training plus one year related experience, or one to two years' progress toward an engineering or related degree.
Previous Experience Desired for both levels:
Ability to understand how to operate multiple vendor software interfaces. Experience with power tools. Experience with Microsoft Excel. Experience working in a marine environment and or with equipment deployed in the marine environment helpful, but not required.
