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The Deep Submergence Systems Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides senior-level technical leadership and domain expertise in support of the U.S. Navy's Deep Submergence Systems Program (DSSP) and submarine lifecycle engineering efforts.
This role supports the design, integration, testing, certification, and sustainment of deep submergence and submarine rescue systems, including highly specialized undersea platforms, rescue vehicles, and associated support equipment.
The SME serves as the authoritative technical advisor across engineering, waterfront operations, and program leadership, ensuring all work complies with NAVSEA standards, safety-critical requirements, and mission readiness objectives.
Program Context
The Deep Submergence Systems Program (DSSP) ensures the Navy's capability to locate, access, and rescue personnel from disabled submarines (DISSUB).
Systems supported include:
• Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRV)
• Pressurized Rescue Modules (PRM)
• Submarine Rescue Diving Recompression Systems (SRDRS)
These systems are:
• Rapidly deployable worldwide
• Capable of operating at extreme depths (up to ~5,000 ft / 1,500 m)
• Designed for life-critical, zero-failure missions
Key Responsibilities
1. Deep Submergence Systems Technical Authority
• Serve as SME for:
o Submarine rescue systems (DSRV, SRDRS, PRM)
o Deep submergence vehicles (DSV)
o Hyperbaric and pressurized systems
• Provide expert guidance on:
o System design, integration, and sustainment
o Operational limitations and environmental constraints (pressure, depth, temperature)
2. Engineering & Test Oversight
• Review and approve:
o Technical Work Documents (TWDs)
o Test procedures and certification packages
o Engineering change documentation
• Ensure systems meet:
o Performance requirements
o Safety and certification standards
• Support:
o Shipboard and off-board system testing
o Validation of rescue system interfaces and mating operations
3. DSSP & NAVSEA Compliance
• Ensure compliance with:
o NAVSEA deep submergence certification standards (e.g., P-9290)
o SUBSAFE and controlled material programs (as applicable)
• Support audits, certifications, and technical reviews
4. Submarine Rescue & Emergency Systems Integration
• Provide expertise in:
o Disabled submarine (DISSUB) rescue operations
o Rescue system deployment and recovery
o System interfaces with submarines and support vessels
• Support planning and execution of:
o Rescue exercises
o Operational readiness demonstrations
5. Waterfront & Field Engineering Support
• Interface directly with:
o Shipyard engineers
o Waterfront operations teams
o Navy program offices
• Provide on-site technical support for:
o Installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of DSS systems
o Resolution of complex engineering issues in operational environments
6. Risk, Safety & Mission Assurance
• Lead hazard analysis and risk mitigation for:
o Deep submergence operations
o Pressurized system interfaces
• Ensure all work reflects:
o Zero-defect / zero-failure mindset
o Safety-of-life engineering standards
Requirements
Required Qualifications (SME-Level / Direct Experience Required)
• Direct, hands-on experience with Deep Submergence Systems (DSSP environment strongly preferred)
• Demonstrated experience with one or more:
o Submarine rescue systems (DSRV, SRDRS, PRM)
o Deep submergence vehicles or subsea systems
o Hyperbaric / pressurized systems engineering
• Extensive experience supporting:
o NAVSEA programs or submarine systems
o Shipyard, waterfront, or operational Navy environments
• Proven ability to:
o Author/review technical work packages, test procedures, and engineering documentation
o Provide senior-level technical direction across multidisciplinary teams
Preferred Qualifications
• Prior experience with:
o NAVSEA DSSP Program Office
o Submarine escape and rescue systems
o Undersea warfare or ocean engineering programs
• Background as:
o U.S. Navy submarine officer or enlisted (engineering, salvage, or rescue background)
o Shipyard senior engineer or test authority
• Active DoD Secret Clearance (or higher)
Work Environment
• Location: Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and/or NAVSEA-affiliated facilities
• Work setting includes a combination of:
o Office-based engineering and planning
o Waterfront, shipboard, and test facility environments
• May involve:
o Work in confined spaces
o Exposure to operational submarine and rescue systems
o High-security environments