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Remote Research Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Saildrone

Support Vessel Deckhand

Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business ... Support field technicians with repair work conducted both on the water and at remote land-based ...

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Remote Research Vessel information

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.

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

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 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 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:

Remote Research Vessel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote 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.