St. Mary's College of Maryland · 5 hours ago
Director of Marine Science Operations
St Marys City, MD
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$78K/yr - $83K/yrSt. Mary's College of Maryland is seeking a Director of Marine Science Operations to lead all aspects of boat-based marine education research operations at the College beginning in the spring of 2026. The Director will oversee the College’s research fleet and teach safe boating skills for undergraduates, while also serving as the captain of the 46’ Research Vessel.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Coordinating and scheduling boat-based teaching and research needs with internal users and outside institutions
Safely operating the 46’ Research Vessel and supporting efficient accomplishment of boat-based research and teaching goals
Teaching undergraduate classes on safe boat operations, scientific sampling, and use of scientific equipment and instrumentation commonly found on research vessels
Performing routine maintenance and repairs to the vessels, and scheduling and overseeing vendor support when necessary
Routine work includes periodic haul outs for winter maintenance to be performed as independently as possible
Regularly ensuring all vessels are properly outfitted, clean, maintained to a high standard, and in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard and College safety policies
Developing SMCM scientific boating use and safety policies and communicating safety and operational concerns with the Marine Science Scientific Boating Committee
Obtaining a Letter of Designation for the new vessel as a Research Vessel from the USCG OCMI prior to delivery to SMCM
Coordinating with the SMCM Director of the Waterfront for dockage, boat ramp, and other logistical and maintenance needs
Vessel missions typically include a combination of: towing sophisticated acoustic sensors or nets, deploying and recovering moorings or autonomous vehicles, trawling, bottom sampling, and water sampling
Operations are typically day trips (up to 12 hours) from the St. Mary’s College of Maryland Waterfront
The vessel may be staged away from home port as necessary, and occasional weekend missions and/or outreach activities are required
Customer service includes coordinating with faculty, staff, students, and other science personnel prior to missions on outfitting, operations, and timing details; some of these responsibilities may require communications outside of normal business hours
Qualification
Required
U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master Near Coastal License or higher
High school diploma; additional education is a plus
Knowledge of local waters (typical weather, tides, navigation charts and hazards, vessel traffic patterns, etc.)
Excellent judgement and decision making skills in regards to safety and operational situations
Proficient in boat handling in close quarters and deployment and recovery of equipment at sea
Experience trailering small boats
Excellent planning, organizational and interpersonal skills in a collegial environment
Experience in supporting marine research and/or shipboard teaching is required
Ability to perform basic boat maintenance, lead seasonal and as needed haulouts and repairs, and, with the assistance of the Marine Science faculty, oversee completion and delivery of the College's 46' research vessel
Basic proficiency with the Google suite of applications including word processing and spreadsheet software (Google Sheets, Google Docs, Google Forms, etc.)
Subject to random drug testing; and must possess a valid driver's license
Any combination of acceptable education and experience, which has provided the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill the requirements of this position, may be considered
Employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check
Company
St. Mary's College of Maryland
St.
Founded in 1840
201-500 employees
H1B Sponsorship
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Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (9)
2024 (9)
2023 (4)
2022 (3)
2021 (1)
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$1M2023-03-03Grant· $1M
Leadership Team
Paul Pusecker
Vice President & CFO
DeAndre Clements, M. Ed.
Regional Admission Director for Access & Partnerships
Recent News
2025-07-16
Maryland Daily Record
2025-05-17
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