Description
Oregon State University (OSU) is a leading institution in marine research and education, spearheading an NSF-sponsored initiative to design and build three new Regional Class Research Vessels (RCRV). The first of these vessels, the 199-foot Taani, will be operated by OSU and homeported at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon. Additionally, to enhance operational efficiency, OSU is centralizing its marine operations under the Division of Research and Innovation, encompassing research vessels, small boats, scientific diving, technical services, and shoreside infrastructure. This initiative presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth of OSU’s marine enterprise while supporting cutting-edge research and education in oceanic and freshwater environments for the broader academic community.
The Marine Superintendent holds primary responsibility for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of OSU research vessels, to support research, education, and outreach missions. Through coordination with the Office of Marine Operations, this role oversees shore-based infrastructure and associated business processes, including scheduling, planning, regulatory compliance, maintenance, and strategic enhancements for OSU’s oceanographic fleet. Reporting to OSU’s Director of Marine Operations (DMO), the Marine Superintendent supervises the Port Engineer and Port Captain, while working closely with support staff. This position serves as the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) under the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, as well as the Facility Security Officer (FSO).
Beyond daily operations, the Marine Superintendent serves as co-Principal Investigator for the Ship Operations cooperative agreement and West Coast Van Pool grant, funded by the National Science Foundation. This role is instrumental in securing and managing funding for vessel and shore-based activities. In collaboration with the Office of Marine Operations, this role oversees the preparation of proposals to federal and state agencies, negotiates funding for ship operations, vessel repairs, and equipment, and fosters strategic partnerships with federal & state agencies, the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS), and OSU-affiliated research programs. Furthermore, the Marine Superintendent facilitates effective communication between ship and shore personnel, ensuring seamless integration of marine operations within OSU’s broader strategic plan of Prosperity Widely Shared.
Key Responsibilities:
30% – Financial & Budget Management
Grant and Funding Administration
Develop proposals for federal, state, and private funding sources.
Manage cooperative agreements and grants related to marine operations.
Track expenditures and ensure compliance with funding agency requirements.
Budget Oversight
Manage the annual operating budget for research vessels and marine support facilities.
Conduct financial analysis and forecasting for vessel maintenance and operational costs.
Ensure cost-efficient resource allocation and financial accountability.
Procurement and Contract Management
Oversee contracts with shipyards, naval architects, engineering firms, and regulatory consultants.
Negotiate service agreements and procurements for vessel maintenance, fuel, operational support, and shoreside equipment.
Ensure contracts align with regulatory compliance and institutional requirements.
30% – Regulatory Compliance & Safety Management
Compliance with Maritime Regulations
Manage and maintain official vessel documentation including (but not limited to) Certificate of Inspection, ABS Load Line, USCG Stability Letter, Letter of Designations, etc.
Obtain foreign research clearance through the State Department and ensure compliance with international regulations.
Ensure adherence to federal maritime laws (CFR 33 & 46), UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards, and NSF policies.
Maintain compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) and U.S. Coast Guard regulations, in addition to OSU safety policies.
Safety and Risk Management
Develop and implement International Safety Management (ISM) plans.
Oversee oil spill response planning and environmental compliance measures.
Conduct safety audits, drills, and emergency preparedness training.
20% – Fleet & Asset Management
Operational Planning and Scheduling
Plan and execute schedules for research vessels and fleetwide assets in coordination with OSU, UNOLS, and funding agencies.
Interface with vessel users and the Marine Technician Group on cruise logistics.
Streamline scheduling processes using fleet management and voyage planning tools.
Vessel Maintenance and Upgrades
Develop a scheduled maintenance and overhaul plan for research vessels in coordination with the Port Engineer and Marine Technician Superintendent.
Implement a predictive maintenance strategy using data analytics and fleet management software.
Ensure compliance with regulatory inspections and classification society requirements.
Shore Support Facilities Management
Manage and coordinate infrastructure needs for research vessel operations, including docks, expedition staging, workshops, warehouses, and equipment storage.
Optimize the use of shore-based resources to support vessel readiness and efficiency.
Coordinate upgrades and repairs to maintain operational integrity.
20% – Personnel Management & Collaborations
Leadership and Supervision
Supervise port engineer and port captain, while working closely with support staff.
Provide guidance for hiring, performance evaluations, and professional development.
Address and resolve grievances; recommend or implement a framework for corrective/disciplinary actions as necessary.
Foster a culture of operational excellence and safety through teamwork.
Collaborations
Maintain strong relationships with UNOLS, funding agencies, and research institutions.
Facilitate communication between ship and shore-based personnel to ensure seamless operations.
Meet regularly with the OSU Marine Operations Committee to advance strategic initiatives.
Represent OSU Marine Operations in regulatory, business, and leadership capacities.
Training and Workforce Development
Implement standardized training programs for vessel crew and marine operations personnel.
Support cross-training initiatives to enhance operational flexibility and knowledge transfer.
Ensure compliance with licensing, certification, and credentialing requirements.
Requirements
Required:
Education
Bachelor’s degree in a technical or maritime field, business management, public administration, or a related discipline.
Experience
3 years of experience in budget development and fiscal management for programs greater than $2M.
5 years of experience in marine personnel administration.
Experience in the operation and/or management of research vessels that are greater than 150-ft in length.
Experience in preparing and executing technical contracts and/or federal grant proposals.
Knowledge & Skills
Understanding of oceanographic research facilities and federal agency programs funding marine science.
Ability to manage complex logistics, including vessel operations, scheduling, and regulatory compliance.
Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage operational challenges within complex and dynamic environments.
Commitment to equity and diversity in an inclusive setting.
Certifications & Compliance
Must possess (or obtain within 6 months of hire) a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) and a passport.
This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a criminal history check and be determined to be position qualified as per University Standard: 05-010 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in youth programs may have additional criminal history checks every 24 months.
This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.
Additional Preferred Qualifications (not required)
Maritime & Operational Experience
Extensive (5+ years) experience in the management or oversight of inspected research vessels and marine operations.
Familiarity with shipboard operations, logistics, and regulatory compliance related to oceanographic research.
Licenses & Certifications
Current (or recently expired) STCW endorsement for a Deck or Engineering license.
Regulatory & Safety Expertise
Knowledge of maritime regulatory requirements, including those set by the IMO, U.S. Coast Guard, and UNOLS.
Experience implementing safety management systems, such as the International Safety Management (ISM) Code.
Technical & Administrative Skills
Experience managing vessel maintenance, repair contracts, and shore-based support operations.
Knowledge of budgeting, grants, and cooperative agreements related to federal and state research funding.
Familiarity with computer-based maintenance management systems and operational tracking tools.
