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Remote Marine Research Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Marine Division of the Antarctic Support Contract at Leidos has an opening for a Small Research ... remote research stations; McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, and South Pole Station and several deep ...

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 ...

... research vessel R/V OceanXplorer with remote, shore-based research and scientific support. The ... Ph.D. in Marine Biology, Oceanography, Molecular Ecology, Bioinformatics, or a closely related ...

$75K/yr

Virginia Institute of Marine Science Primary Job Posting Location: Posting Location - VIMS ... The Research Vessel (R/V) Chief Engineer serves as Chief Engineer on the R/V Virginia. This ...

... remote research stations; McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, and South Pole Station and several deep ... Prior research vessel support experience * Experience working at Palmer Station Boathouse

Job Type Full-time Description Project Manager-Ocean Exploration Research Remote with the ability ... The successful candidate will provide expertise in ocean technology and the marine environment ...

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$75K - $98K/yr

... remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for ... Experience utilizing vessel operations and maintenance both in a commercial and military ...

... remote working environment • Customer-oriented, service-minded, and solution-focused Highly ... with marine electrical systems and integrated vessel electronics • Background in dealer ...

Structural Engineer

$70K - $117K/yr

... of diverse marine structures and waterborne vessel hulls to meet critical operational ... For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract ...

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Remote Marine Research Vessel information

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$11K

$43.4K

$61K

How much do remote marine research vessel jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote marine research vessel in the United States is $43,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote marine research vessel operator?

To thrive as a Remote Marine Research Vessel Operator, you need a solid background in marine science or engineering, experience with vessel operations, and relevant maritime certifications such as a captain’s license. Familiarity with navigation systems, sonar, GPS, remote-operated vehicle (ROV) controls, and data collection software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for handling technical challenges and collaborating with research teams. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe operation of the vessel, accurate data collection, and successful completion of research missions in challenging ocean environments.

What is a remote marine research vessel?

A Remote Marine Research Vessel is a specialized ship or platform equipped to conduct scientific research at sea, often operated or monitored remotely using advanced technologies. These vessels are used to study marine life, oceanography, climate, and underwater geology without needing an onboard crew for every operation. They employ remote sensing equipment, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to collect data from the ocean. This approach allows scientists to explore and monitor marine environments in real-time while minimizing human presence in challenging or hazardous areas.

What is the difference between Remote Marine Research Vessel vs Marine Research Technician?

AspectRemote Marine Research VesselMarine Research Technician
CredentialsMaritime certifications, scientific trainingScience or environmental degree, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, remote ocean locationsLaboratories, field sites, marine facilities
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, maritime agenciesUniversities, research labs, environmental agencies
Search & ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork and research rolesCommonly compared for technical support roles

The Remote Marine Research Vessel and Marine Research Technician roles both support marine science but differ mainly in work environment and credentials. The vessel role involves operating onboard ships in remote ocean areas, requiring maritime certifications, while the technician works in labs or field sites with technical and scientific degrees. Both are vital in marine research but serve different functions within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced when working on a remote marine research vessel, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Working on a remote marine research vessel often involves extended periods at sea, limited access to shore facilities, and adapting to unpredictable weather conditions. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll collaborate closely with scientists, crew, and support staff in confined quarters. Adapting to a rotating schedule, maintaining equipment in harsh environments, and being prepared for emergencies are also key aspects. Prospective applicants should be comfortable with long deployments, possess strong problem-solving skills, and be proactive in maintaining both safety and morale.
More about Remote Marine Research Vessel jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Marine Research Vessel jobs? Cities with the most Remote Marine Research Vessel job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Research Vessel jobs? The most popular types of Marine Research Vessel jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Marine Research Vessel jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Marine Research Vessel jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Marine Research Vessel jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Marine Research Vessel jobs are:
Infographic showing various Remote Marine Research Vessel job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,396 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Small Research Vessel Captain

Leidos

Remote

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 482 rated business services


Job description

Must have an active NSF Public Trust Security Clearance to be considered.
The Marine Division of the Antarctic Support Contract at Leidos has an opening for a Small Research Vessel Captain to work at Palmer Station, Antarctica for the coming austral summer season (Oct-April). The Small R/V Captain supports all aspects of waterfront operations at Palmer Station. The Small R/V Captain acts as one of three resident professional mariners on Station, advising Station Management on all aspects of marine operation. Duties consist of operating and maintaining a fleet of fifteen active small boats, plus a number of reserve vessels, and executing all aspects of maritime training and safety for Station residents.
*** Deployment to Antarctica may be necessary at the discretion of management (approximately 6 months/year). The candidate in the position must complete the physical and dental examinations required by the NSF for deploying to Antarctica. ***
Due to contract requirements, US Citizenship is required.
Must obtain a Public Trust security clearance prior to start date. This process could take up to 4 months.
Your greatest work is ahead!
About the Antarctic Support Contract:
Leidos Antarctic Support Contract (ASC) is the prime contractor to the National Science Foundation (NSF) in support of the United States Antarctic Program (USAP). Leidos supports the NSF's Office of Polar Program's Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics by aligning with their Mission and Vision Statements:
  • Vision: Expanding our scientific reach in Antarctica through increased operational and logistical effectiveness.
  • Mission: To provide the operational and logistical platform necessary for the U.S. to conduct world-class science in Antarctica and maintain its active and influential presence on the continent.

Leidos ASC provides science and logistics support for approximately 150 science and technical events across three geographically remote research stations; McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, and South Pole Station and several deep field sites across Antarctica. Each station or field site supports world class research across multiple science disciplines. The planning and implementation of science support requirements in Antarctica is a critical part of our mission.
To learn more about the Leidos Antarctic Support contract, click here.
Are you ready to join a team dedicated to a mission? Begin your journey of a flourishing and meaningful career, share your resume with us today!
The Challenge:
  • Maintains accountability for, commitment to, and involvement with personal, co-worker, community, and project safety as a constant priority
  • Operates and maintains a fleet of an average of fifteen active small boats, including inflatable boats and outboard motors, as well as the two 30' research vessels in the program.
  • Operates vehicles and equipment to launch and recover the small boats via trailer and oversees maintenance of said equipment, including, but not limited to, inboard diesel, hydraulics, outboard motors, inflatable boats, and rigid hull inflatables
  • Provides training and oversite for station personnel in marine safety which may include basic seamanship, dead reckoning and electronic navigation, radio protocol, small boat handling, creating a float plan, rough weather operations, sea ice operations, vessel safety, cold water survival, deployment of oceanographic systems, trailering vessels, procedures for conducting operations in remote settings, and other topics as needed
  • Maintains records of daily operations including vessel logs, situation reports, fuel usage, equipment maintenance, vessel launch/recovery, and turnover reports
  • Prepares and maintains documentation for Palmer Station boating operations, including JHA's and Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Maintains stock and records of extensive spares inventory in order fully support the scientific program.
  • Performs timely inspections of safety, lifesaving, firefighting, and other emergency equipment.
  • Responsible for mooring maintenance
  • Responsible for the safety and cleanliness of various shop areas

What Sets You Apart:
  • USCG Captain's OUVP license. During seasons at Station where no 30' RHIBs are present, equivalent experience will be accepted
  • Minimum three years of experience acting as Captain, or, in seasons with no RHIB operation, equivalent experience in vessel maintenance
  • Minimum of two years of experience driving motorized small vessels
  • Minimum two years of experience maintaining small vessel systems and hulls, or equivalent
  • Experience in commercial marine operations such as merchant marine, fisheries, or boatyards
  • Comprehensive knowledge of small vessel operation, trailering, troubleshooting and maintenance
  • Proven ability to repair and troubleshoot engines and/or machinery including 4-stroke outboards, diesel, and inflatables
  • High level independent problem-solving and multi-tasking skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong customer service skills

You May Also Have:
  • USCG 25-ton (or higher) Captain's license
  • Experience working on vessels with customers and/or students
  • College level coursework in marine or a science-related field
  • High-latitude experience is a plus
  • Experience transporting, handling, deploying and retrieving oceanographic sampling equipment

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
July 9, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

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At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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