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Noaa Research Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orchard LLC

Deckhand - NOAA Research Vessel 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 ...

@Orchard

Lead Deck Hand & Vessel Operator

Falmouth, MA · Remote

This role provides essential, hands-on support aboard a NOAA research vessel, enabling scientific surveys that are fundamental to managing and sustaining our nation's living marine resources. Your ...

@Orchard

Lead Deck Hand & Vessel Operator

Falmouth, MA · Remote

This role provides essential, hands-on support aboard a NOAA research vessel, enabling scientific surveys that are fundamental to managing and sustaining our nation's living marine resources. Your ...

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How much do noaa research vessel jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for noaa research vessel in the United States is $33.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Noaa Research Vessel position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a crew member or scientist aboard a NOAA Research Vessel, you need expertise in marine sciences or vessel operations, strong problem-solving abilities, and a relevant academic background or maritime certifications. Familiarity with navigation systems, oceanographic instruments, data collection technology, and certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or STCW are commonly required. Teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills, as crew members frequently collaborate in remote and challenging environments. These competencies are essential to ensure the safe operation of the vessel and the successful execution of complex research missions at sea.

What is the typical work schedule and life like aboard a NOAA Research Vessel?

Working on a NOAA Research Vessel usually involves assignments that last from several days to several weeks at sea, with shifts structured to ensure 24/7 vessel operations. Crew and scientists often live in shared quarters, take meals together, and follow a rotational schedule with set periods on and off duty. The lifestyle can be demanding due to long hours, confined spaces, and limited shore time, but it also fosters strong camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment. Team members frequently collaborate closely in conducting research, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety, making adaptability and teamwork essential. Successful crew members are those who thrive in dynamic, mission-focused environments and enjoy being a part of meaningful scientific work.

What is a NOAA Research Vessel job?

A NOAA Research Vessel job involves working aboard ships operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to support scientific research and data collection related to oceanography, marine life, and climate studies. Roles on these vessels vary and may include marine technicians, deck officers, engineers, and research scientists. Crew members help operate the vessel, deploy scientific equipment, and assist with research missions at sea. These jobs demand technical skills, teamwork, and the ability to work in challenging ocean environments.

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What cities are hiring for Noaa Research Vessel jobs? Cities with the most Noaa Research Vessel job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Noaa Research Vessel jobs? The most popular types of Noaa Research Vessel jobs are:
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Noaa Research Vessel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Noaa Research Vessel job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,255 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Deckhand - NOAA Research Vessel Support

@Orchard

Falmouth, MA • Remote

Full-time

Posted 17 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.