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Remote Research Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Small Research Vessel Captain

... Vessel Captain to work at Palmer Station, Antarctica for the coming austral summer season (Oct ... remote research stations; McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, and South Pole Station and several deep ...

OceanX

Postdoctoral Associate

New York, NY · On-site +1

This position combines laboratory and field-based research aboard the research vessel R/V OceanXplorer with remote, shore-based research and scientific support. The successful candidate will be ...

Leidos

Marine Fleet Coordinator

... 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

GHG Corp

Electrical Engineer (Licensed)

Webster, TX · Remote

$60 - $80/hr

The specified support includes remote operation and maintenance of facilities, vehicles, and equipment at various USAP stations, as well as a research vessel. Support is also provided to all NSF ...

KBR, Inc.

ANTARCTICA WORK - UPLOAD RESUME

Marine Vessel Design, Operations, and Support * Infrastructure Development, Operations, and ... Scientific Research and Laboratory Services * Logistics, Transportation, and Global Supply Chain

Leidos

Peninsula Field Camp Assistant

$52K - $94K/yr

This a dynamic position working in remote locations to prepare for and assist camp operations for ... Vessel experience: sailing, small boats, commercial, or research. * Spanish language skills or ...

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Remote Research Vessel information

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

AspectRemote Research VesselMarine Research Technician
CredentialsRelevant maritime certifications, scientific backgroundMarine science or related degree, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, remote ocean locationsLaboratories, research sites, sometimes onboard vessels
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, maritime agenciesUniversities, research labs, environmental agencies
Search & ComparisonOften compared for field research roles in oceanographyCompared for technical support in marine science projects

The Remote Research Vessel and Marine Research Technician roles both support marine science but differ mainly in work environment and credentials. Remote Research Vessels operate at sea onboard ships, requiring maritime certifications, while Marine Research Technicians typically work in labs or onshore, focusing on technical support. Both are vital in oceanographic research but serve different operational settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Research Vessel Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Research Vessel Operator, you need expertise in marine operations, navigation, and vessel maintenance, often supported by relevant maritime certifications and experience. Familiarity with remote vessel control systems, GPS navigation, sonar, and data collection software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for safe and efficient mission execution. These competencies ensure the vessel is operated safely, research data is accurately collected, and communication with research teams is clear and reliable.

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

Crew members on remote research vessels often face challenges such as extended periods away from shore, limited communication with family, and adapting to a confined living environment. Additionally, unpredictable weather and the need to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team can add complexity. To address these challenges, effective onboard communication, regular team meetings, and strong support systems are essential. Many organizations also provide mental health resources and emphasize work-life balance to support crew well-being during long expeditions.

What is a remote research vessel?

A remote research vessel is a ship or boat equipped with specialized technology and equipment that allows it to conduct scientific research at sea, often operated or monitored remotely. These vessels may be crewed or uncrewed and are used for oceanography, marine biology, climate studies, and other scientific investigations. By utilizing remote operation, researchers can collect data from inaccessible or hazardous areas, reduce costs, and improve safety. Remote research vessels are essential for advancing our understanding of the oceans and their ecosystems.
More about Remote Research Vessel jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Research Vessel jobs? Cities with the most Remote Research Vessel job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Vessel jobs? The most popular types of Research Vessel jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Research Vessel jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Research Vessel jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Research Vessel jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Research Vessel jobs are:
Remote Research Vessel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Research Vessel job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 42% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 55% Remote job distribution.
Small Research Vessel Captain

Small Research Vessel Captain

Leidos

Remote

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 454 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.

Industry

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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