Description:
Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a qualified individual to serve as a boat captain and vessel operations coordinator for vessel support services to the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa.
If you're a qualified boat captain with a passion for supporting marine sciences and field research, this is a once-in-a-career opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most visually stunning marine environments on the planet. The National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa is not just a workplace - it’s a living laboratory of evolutionary marvels, where ancient corals, rare pelagic species, and active undersea volcanoes converge in a breathtaking Pacific seascape.
NMSAS operates and maintains the 33’ research vessel R/V Manuma, homeported in Pago Pago, American Samoa. Duties include but are not limited to:
- Provide safe vessel operations in a variety of underway operations for research, education, outreach, maritime heritage, law enforcement, intra/inter-agency partnership trips and other approved missions.
- Operate the NOAA research vessel in compliance with NOAA policies and regulations. Ensure the safe navigation and mechanical operation of the vessel at all times in accordance with all NOAA, National Ocean Service (NOS), Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) policy guidelines, vessel operations manuals, vessel standing orders, and specifically NOAA Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual (NSBSPM), NOA 209-125, MARPOL, and COLREGS.
- Exercise prudent judgment at all times. Anticipate management problems and devise solutions with suggested operational policies to ensure technical programs are carried out with maximum efficiency, adhering to applicable laws and regulations.
- Ensure vessel operations safely support all diving operations by the science team.
- Oversee vessel operation safety, inspection compliance, life cycle costs and material condition of the vessels and vessel storage facilities.
- Tailor specific vessel operations manuals to assess and address current and potential site and region-specific operational risks.
- Serve as liaison to the U.S. Coast Guard, NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, National Park Service, and other agencies with small boat operations in the area.
- Work in close cooperation with program leads (science, communications, and education) and superintendent to develop and implement marine operations plans to support management priorities.
- Conduct inspections, drills, and tests for vessel operations to ensure equipment and vessel meets operational and safety standards. Regularly inspect and maintain vessel, engines, hydraulic and electrical systems, hull, deck equipment, navigation equipment, fuel and water systems, and safety equipment.
- Be willing and able to respond to shipboard emergencies.
- Review all Project Instructions and submit appropriate documentation, including Cruise Plans, and Float Plans.
- Assist in administrative duties (e.g. develop vessel operational plans, dive unit oversight, prepare reports and requests, use purchase card, property management, and safety).
- Develop and certify that crewmembers pass Personal Qualifications Standards.
- Drive Federal motor vehicle when necessary to support dive and boating operations.
- Position includes fieldwork, including diving, working on small vessels and camping in remote locations for up to ten days.
- Assist in outreach activities to provide the public with information about the sanctuary vessel and on-the-water operations.
- Ensure dive gear and equipment is maintained in safe operating condition and meets testing and inspection requirements.
- Maintain administrative records for divers including certification, training, and inspection records as required in the NOAA Diving Standards and Safety Manual.
- Qualify to serve as the site’s Unit Diving Supervisor.
- Once qualified in diving, ensure that diving operations comply with NOAA diving standards, policies, and procedures, ensure proper staffing for dive operations, including required competencies, certifications, and trainings for divers.
Requirements:
- USCG 25-ton Master license (near coastal) or higher.
- 3 or more years of experience with operating boats, including marine science field operations (5 or more years of experience is preferred). Experience on research vessels is desired.
- 5 years of scientific diving experience is preferred, including in remote areas, and the ability to be certified as a NOAA Divemaster within one year.
- Experience in load handling equipment such as winches, cranes, A-Frames, and davits.
- Able to lift and carry equipment and gear up to seventy-five (75) pounds to assist in mobilization.
- Experience in conducting basic maintenance activities including fueling, engine oil changes, boat transport trailer repairs, and dock repairs.
- Experience in performing basic vessel repairs and troubleshooting.
- Experience with Yamaha outboard engine maintenance and repairs is preferred.
AAP/EEO Statement
CPC is an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
