Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently seeking a seasonal Engineering Technician to join the Operational Scientific Services department for the Summer of 2024. This is a temporary, casual, non-exempt positions and is eligible for casual benefits.
Summer hiring positions provide technical assistance to mechanical and electrical design engineers by performing maintenance, testing, and repairs to electrical or mechanical systems.
Engineer Assistant I Level:
- With close supervision, uses established procedures to perform prescribed tasks related to the engineering support of oceanographic research.
Engineer Assistant II Level:
- 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.
Engineer Assistant III Level:
- 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 titles for these positions could be Engineering Assistant I, II, or III. The final level of these positions will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education and experience.
Essential Functions
Engineer Assistant I:
- Basic mechanical or electrical assembly, testing, and troubleshooting
Engineer Assistant II:
- In addition to the duties of an Engineering Assistant I, this position will interface with machine and mechanical shops, generate documentation & upkeep
Engineer Assistant III:
- In addition to the duties of an Engineering Assistant II, this position will use machining tools, use CAD to complete draft and design work, and follow through on component part fabrication in WHOI’s machine & mechanical shop
All Levels must be willing to take on a variety of tasks.
Education & Experience
Engineer Assistant I:
- Experience using hand and power tools is required
- CAD familiarity is required
- High school diploma plus 1-year mechanical or electrical experience is desired
Engineer Assistant II:
- Working knowledge of CAD is required.
- Basic knowledge of machining tools (lathe, drill press, milling machines) is desired
- Interface with machine and mechanical shops is desired
- 1-2 years’ progress toward an engineering degree is desired
Engineer Assistant III:
- CAD design and drafting is required and Engineering Assistant II skill sets
- Machining tool use (lathe, drill press, milling machines) is required
- Follow thru for on component part fabrication via WHOI shops is required
- 2-3 years’ progress toward an engineering degree is desired
Special Requirements
- TWIC
- Must be a US Citizen
- Security Clearance
- Person drives WHOI vehicle
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.
