Electronics Technician (ALVIN)

Job Summary

Job Description

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for an Electronics Technician to join the Alvin Submersible Engineering and Operations Group. This is a temporary, full-time, non-exempt position eligible for limited benefits. Alvin is the world’s most famous and prolific human occupied submersible, continually operating since its commissioning in 1964. For over five decades, and 5000+ dives Alvin has advanced our understanding of the Earth’s ocean environments, uncovering many significant scientific discoveries along the way. Alvin was recently certified to 6500m and now has the ability to explore over 98% of the ocean floor.

The Alvin Group is currently seeking a highly motivated, technically competent and responsible Electronics Technician to join our operations team. With supervision, a successful candidate applies electronic/electrical aptitude and acquired knowledge of established procedures to the maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of vehicle related equipment used in the operation and support of the Alvin submersible.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

This position requires individuals to possess a strong electrical background, meticulous work habits, superb attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, solid work ethic, self-motivation and professionalism, which are hallmarks of Alvin engineering and operations personnel.

Specific tasks include (but not limited to):

• Apply and follow written procedures to maintain, test, and repair submersible electronic/electrical systems and equipment associated with the operation of the submersible. Examples include: digital and analog circuits, battery components, power supplies, relays and power distribution systems, motors (DC brushless) and controllers, serial data systems and networks, underwater camera and video systems, etc.

• Preparation and interface of scientific equipment and sensors used with the submersible.

• Maintenance and repair of fiber-optic components and equipment.

• Use of electronic test equipment (multi-meters, oscilloscope, fiber-optic testing equipment, etc.)

• Participate in all phases of the vehicle launch, recovery and surface support activities.

• Complete the training required to qualify as an Alvin support technician, support swimmer, launch coordinator, launch system operator and surface coordinator.

• Go to sea up to 8 months a year in support of Alvin operations.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• As deemed necessary by supervisor

DESIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Engineering Assistant II Level*

• High School or equivalent plus three years’ mechanical or electronics experience, or Technical School training plus one year related experience, or one to two years’ progress toward an engineering or related degree.

Engineering Assistant III Level*

• High School diploma or equivalent plus six years’ mechanical or electronics experience, or Technical School training plus four years’ practical experience, or two to three years’ progress toward an engineering or related degree.

*Position level will be determined by the selected candidate’s level of education & experience.

Required Experience:

• 3-5 years of applicable experience in electrical/electronic systems maintenance. Alternatively, a BS in Electrical Engineering or similar curriculum with two years of practical experience is preferred.

• At-sea experience desired. ROV, AUV and/or manned submersible experience a plus.

• Strong aptitude for evaluating and repairing analog and digital electrical and electronic components and systems. Must be capable of analyzing equipment problems using drawings/documentation and schematics in conjunction with test equipment and procedures.

• Windows and Linux operating system fluency, serial and network communications protocols, embedded processor hardware development, schematic capture and CAD software.

• Use and evaluation of electrical and electronic test equipment.

• Basic proficiency in the use of common mechanical tools.

• Strong aptitude in completing detailed maintenance documentation and reporting.

• Experience with mechanical, electromechanical and battery systems is a plus.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be a US Citizen and current US passport holder.

• Must be able to acquire a TWIC card.

• Sea duty required.

• Ability to swim with mask/snorkel and dive fins in an open ocean environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift 25-50 lbs independently, 2-3 times per day; carry 25-50 lbs, 3-4 times per day. Ability to ascend/descend a vertical ladder through a 20” diameter hatch opening. Visual abilities to include near, far, and peripheral vision, depth perception, ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas. Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, reaching above and below the shoulders, and kneeling, bending, and stooping. Will be exposed to excessive cold, heat, and/or humidity, grease and oils, hazardous substances or specimens, electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards, prolonged work hours, and/or extended periods at sea. Physical duties are subject to change.

SEA DUTY CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTIONS:

May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.

Additional Job Requirements

Hourly Range:

Engineering Assistant II: $27.32/hour - $35.20/hour

Engineering Assistant III: $30.50/hour - $39.37/hour

The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package. 

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.