Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is currently searching for an Engineering Assistant to join the Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering Department. This is a temporary, casual, position, and is eligible for casual benefits.
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.
Engineering Assistant III
With little supervision, applies a broad knowledge of established procedures to the assembly, testing, or calibration of equipment developed and used in support of engineering projects related to oceanographic instrumentation.
The internal working title for this position could be either Engineering Assistant II, or Engineering Assistant III. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience.
Essential Functions
Engineering Assistant I
- 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 malfunctions
Engineering Assistant II
- Performs non-routine assignments of substantial variety and complexity given well-defined objectives and technical advice from a supervisor or engineering staff member
- Fabricates and constructs complex components of instrumentation requiring care and accuracy, seeking advice as necessary
- Uses computers to run application programs or to do simple programming tasks
- Uses CAD systems to prepare schematics, drawings, or parts lists; makes recommendations concerning these items
- May direct field operations in area of specialty
Education & Experience
Engineering Assistant I
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.
Engineering Assistant II
High School diploma or equivalent plus six years' mechanical or electronics experience, or Technical School training plus four years' practical experience, or two to three years' progress toward an engineering or related degree.
Physical Requirements
Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.
Sea Duty
May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.
