Oceanographic Research Assistant 1

UConn CIRCA is seeking a full-time Oceanographic Research Assistant at their Groton, CT campus. The role involves planning, deploying, and maintaining coastal ocean observing systems, supporting ship and small-boat operations in Long Island Sound. Candidates should have a degree in a related field, experience with electronics, and the ability to work in challenging weather. The position requires hands-on work and teamwork in marine environments.
Search #: 499472
Work type: Full-time
Location: UConn Avery Point
Categories: Research

JOB SUMMARY

The University of Connecticut’s Department of Marine Sciences (DMS) and the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) seek a full-time Oceanographic Research Assistant to join a field-forward team based at the Avery Point campus.

The successful candidate will help plan, deploy, recover, maintain, and calibrate a wide range of coastal ocean observing systems (e.g., moored instruments, buoys, bottom frames, water-level and wave sensors) and support ship and small-boat operations in Long Island Sound and adjacent waters.

The role combines hands-on deck work, basic electronics and mechanical troubleshooting, documentation, and safe operations in all seasons. Several daytrips per week and work in challenging weather and sea conditions are required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Prepare, deploy, recover, service, and calibrate oceanographic instruments (e.g., CTDs, ADCPs, wave/water-level sensors, meteorological packages) following documented procedures and safety protocols.
• Rig moorings and deck gear; select and inspect wire/rope, shackles, swivels, chain, and corrosion protection; maintain accurate logs, metadata, and inventory.
• Operate safely on ships and small boats; support deck operations including winch, A-frame, crane, and powered lift truck activities under direction of the chief scientist or captain.
• Assist with small-boat trailering, launching/retrieval, and routine vessel checks; perform dockside and shop maintenance (e.g., connectors, batteries/charging systems, housings, seals).
• Conduct pre- and post-deployment servicing, and instrument calibrations; execute basic electronics troubleshooting and preventative maintenance.
• Perform data offloads, backups; generate concise field summaries, and documentation for internal use and stakeholder reporting.
• Contribute to field plans, risk assessments, and cruise reports; coordinate with team members to meet schedules and safety requirements.
• Support occasional outreach, training, and demonstrations for students and partners.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• B.A. or B.S. in Marine Science, Oceanography, Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field with no post-degree experience or equivalent specialized training and experience.
• Demonstrated experience with electronics (battery/charging systems, connectors) and electrical safety; comfort with hand and power tools.
• Experience working effectively on moving platforms and in adverse weather.
• Proficiency with standard office and documentation software, including keeping clear logs, inventories, and/or metadata.
• Experience with corrosion and corrosion-limitation practices in marine environments.
• Demonstrated experience utilizing teamwork, communication, and situational awareness skills, with a commitment to following established safety procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• AAUS Scientific Diver Certification (or equivalent) and recent scientific diving experience.
• Connecticut small-boat operator permit and experience operating small watercraft, trailering, and launching small boats.
• Experience at sea in Long Island Sound or similar coastal waters; familiarity with shipboard deck operations.
• Experience with cranes and forklifts and/or documented deck crew roles on research vessels.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with modern ocean science instrumentation and related shop/lab tools, including calibrations and pre-deployment preparation.
• Experience coordinating deck operations, cruise plans, and instrument servicing schedules.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, grant-funded, 12-month position. This position is subject to annual renewal, contingent on satisfactory performance and budget funding. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the American Association of University Professors UConn Chapter (AAUP).

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position is based at UConn Avery Point (Groton, CT) with regular fieldwork in Long Island Sound and occasional regional travel. Several multi-day trips per year and work in challenging weather and sea conditions on research vessels and small boats are required.

The successful incumbent must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds for 10 meters.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #499472 and submit the following application materials: resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on April 10, 2026.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.

Advertised: Mar 10 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Apr 10 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Job Type: Full-time

Education:
• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person