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Entry Level Research Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable ... all aspects of vessel management. 3rd Mate: The 3rd Mate is an entry-level officer position ...

Liberty Mutual

Senior Consultant, Boiler Inspector

Troy, NY · Remote

$75K - $140K/yr

... vessel inspections services through the successful completion of an entry-level training program and experience. Conducts extensive research, data collection and evaluation and analysis in order to ...

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Entry Level Research Vessel information

What is an entry level research vessel job?

Entry level research vessel jobs are positions onboard scientific ships that involve assisting with marine research, vessel operations, and maintenance. These roles typically include tasks such as collecting samples, recording data, helping scientists with experiments, cleaning equipment, and supporting the crew. No advanced experience is usually required, but a background in marine science or seamanship can be beneficial. Entry level roles often serve as a starting point for advancing to more specialized positions in marine research or vessel operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level crew members on a research vessel, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level crew members on a research vessel often face challenges such as adapting to life at sea, working long or irregular hours, and quickly learning new technical skills. Teamwork is essential, as daily tasks often require close collaboration with both scientific and operational staff. Communication and flexibility help overcome the unpredictable nature of ocean environments and shifting research priorities. New crew members are encouraged to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues and actively participate in safety and equipment training to build confidence and competence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level research vessel crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as an entry level research vessel crew member, you generally need a high school diploma, basic seamanship knowledge, physical fitness, and a willingness to work extended periods at sea. Familiarity with marine safety equipment, navigation systems, and possibly certifications like STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) are commonly required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and good communication are essential soft skills for working effectively in close quarters and dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications ensure safe vessel operations, effective support of research activities, and a positive team environment during extended voyages.

What is the difference between Entry Level Research Vessel vs Entry Level Marine Technician?

AspectEntry Level Research VesselEntry Level Marine Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, maritime certifications, basic scientific knowledgeHigh school diploma, marine certifications, mechanical skills
Work EnvironmentOnboard research ships, marine labsMarine facilities, ships, maintenance workshops
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, government agenciesMaritime companies, research vessels, maintenance providers

Both roles often require maritime certifications and involve working in marine environments. The main difference is that Entry Level Research Vessel positions focus on supporting scientific research onboard ships, while Entry Level Marine Technicians handle maintenance and technical support for marine equipment and vessels.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Research Vessel jobs?

The most popular types of Research Vessel jobs are:

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Entry Level Research Vessel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Research Vessel job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Deckhand - NOAA Research Vessel Support

@Orchard

Falmouth, MA • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Deckhand – NOAA Research Vessel Support (Levels I & II)

Remote/Offshore within Massachusetts or Rhode Island – accessible to Falmouth/Woods Hole, MA, and Narragansett RI (with assignments on NOAA and partner vessels throughout the Northeast U.S.)

 

@Orchard LLC has been awarded the PEMAD sea-going support contract through NOAA Fisheries. We are actively hiring Deckhands (Levels I & II) to support NOAA Fisheries’ research operations aboard the R/V Gloria Michelle and other survey vessels. Deckhands are essential to the safe and effective deployment of scientific gear, vessel operations, and maintenance. This is a hands-on role requiring seamanship, technical skills, and the ability to work in a small crew environment on extended research trips.

Responsibilities
  • Safely deploy and retrieve scientific sampling gear (trawls, dredges, grabs, CTDs, sensors, etc.).Conduct routine vessel operations, including docking, line handling, watches, and housekeeping.
  • Assist with cruise staging/de-staging, loading/unloading of stores, supplies, and scientific equipment. 
  • Support deck operations during research missions, ensuring safety protocols are followed.
  • Perform net mending, gear repair, and hydraulic/electrical maintenance as needed.
  • Assist with vessel system maintenance (diesel engines, generators, hydraulics, deck machinery).
  • Operate deck equipment (winches, cranes, derricks, reels, anchor windlass) under the officer's direction. 
  • Stand lookout, wheelhouse, and anchor watches using navigation equipment (charts, GPS, radar, fathometers).
  • Support trawl repair and equipment troubleshooting while underway.
  • Work in close quarters with diverse crews, maintaining professionalism in challenging conditions.
  • Report safety issues and operational concerns to NOAA Officers in Charge (OIC/JOIC).
Qualifications

General Requirements (all levels):

  • Ability to work at sea for extended periods in varied weather.
  • Physically capable of lifting and carrying 55lbs, climbing ladders, and working on rolling decks. 
  • Willingness to work long days (12 hours standard, occasional extended shifts).
  • Positive and professional demeanor in small crew environments.
  • Current CPR/First Aid/AED certification (or ability to obtain before starting).
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to operate government vehicles.
  • Applicants must pass a drug test, background check, and NOAA medical clearance (including TB test).

Level I (Assistant Deckhand / Junior):

  • Entry-level trawling or oceanographic gear-handling experience desired but not required.
  • Exposure to hydraulic winches, cranes, or trawl operations is a plus.
  • Able to follow instructions and support the senior deck crew with gear operations and maintenance.

Level II (Experienced Deckhand / Lead):

  • Minimum 3 years of trawling/oceanographic experience (hydraulic winches, cranes, trawls, net mending, gear repair).
  • Strong preference for candidates with an Able Seafarer (AB) Fishing credential (experience requirement may be halved).
  • Demonstrated ability to operate and repair vessel systems (diesel, hydraulics, deck machinery).
  • Proven experience managing deck operations safely and efficiently while underway. 
  • Familiarity with NOAA Small Boat Policy requirements is strongly preferred.

To learn more about this opportunity to serve the NOAA Fisheries mission of advancing Fisheries science, please apply.

Established in 2010, @Orchard has an exceptional reputation, providing staffing solutions to time-sensitive, talent scarcity issues to deliver better talent management ROI.  Our specialty lies in the critical area of program talent acquisition and resource management, not in one narrow skillset, but across many areas of technical and functional delivery. To learn more about our other exciting opportunities, visit our Jobs Page at www.atorchard.com.