DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The Marine Physical Laboratory (MPL) has offices and laboratory space on both the Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) campus in La Jolla and at the Scripps Nimitz Marine Facility on Point Loma. It is part of SIO's Oceans and Atmosphere (OA) Section with multidisciplinary programs of scientific research including ocean acoustics, bioacoustics, seafloor geophysics, signal processing, ocean optics and underwater imaging, air-sea interaction and surface waves, upper-ocean physics, and ocean chemistry. MPL has contracts & grants with federal agencies, industry, other Universities and nonprofits, and various state agencies. MPL's research programs are both theoretical and applied, The MPL machine shop at Point Loma supports MPL and SIO research programs fabricating unique and complex instrumentation in support of exploratory technological development appropriate to applied research programs.

MPL expenditures exceed $50M/yr. MPL has over 130 permanent academic and staff employees and about 100 annual students, visiting appointments, and volunteers.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Marine Physical Laboratory Division at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego is seeking a skilled Field Researcher 3.

Under the general direction of senior researchers, the incumbent provides scientific guidance and assistance with implementation, designs and monitors of a field site/study including but not limited to environmental, public health, social or biological science disciplines.

The Field Researcher will be part of a field research group conducting coastal oceanographic research, air-sea interaction studies, and marine robotics research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDTE); maintain instrumentation, facilities, and support equipment in local and remote research sites. Supports field research projects of large scope and complexity under the guidance of leadership. Participate in the preparation and execution of both field expeditions and laboratory measurements. Operates and maintains oceanographic support vessels and vehicles. Takes measurements in the field as necessary and trains others to do so. Supports long-term research projects that rely on field observations as well as keeping current with the latest technologies and research advances. Develop methods to quality control the data and automate these processes. Participate in fieldwork logistics of scientific research, including purchasing equipment and supplies, shipping/receiving equipment, maintaining laboratory facilities, and interacting with non-University personnel. As needed, under general supervision, may assist in the design, fabrication, and testing of mechanical and electronic robotics systems for observing the ocean in both fixed and underway deployment scenarios.

QUALIFICATIONS

• B.S. Degree in science or engineering that is generally relevant to environmental research, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Strong experience with deploying oceanographic platforms in various weather conditions in an at-sea environment.

• Experience with configuration and deployment of robotic systems at-sea.

• Extensive small boat experience.

• Ability to operate and provide instruction with deck equipment including cranes, A-frames, winches, and capstans.

• Experience working with machine shop equipment including the grinder, cutter, drill machines and power hand tools.

• Ability to operate and provide instruction with mechanical machinery such as saws, drilling devices, grinders, sanders, etc.

• Technical experience with hoists, cranes, pier based small boating operations, and pier infrastructure and safety.

• Strong research and analytical skills.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Strong time management and follow up skills. Ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, proven ability to prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.

• Proven ability to work independently and with a team, and to meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Demonstrated ability to use independent judgment and make responsible and safety-conscious decisions in the field.

• Thorough knowledge of safety, legal, cultural and regulatory requirements relative to field research responsibility. Knowledge of safety training and requirements.

• Thorough knowledge of research discipline, principles, concepts, analysis and / or operations being conducted at field / remote sites.

• Thorough knowledge of local customs and operations at field / remote sites.

• Proven ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and partnerships with remote research partners.

• Strong communication skills with research partners and project team members.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be willing and able to travel - U.S. and International Must be willing to go to sea for up to 40 days/ yr as required to conduct experiments.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Obtain and maintain DOD security clearance as required.

• Must have access to reliable transportation and/or a valid driver’s license.

• Offer of employment is contingent upon candidate clearing the background check process.