Oceanographic Specialist (Marine Research Support)📣 Job Ad

About KAUST and the Role

KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology), located in Thuwal, Makkah, is seeking an Oceanographic Specialist (Marine Research Support). This full-time position is integral to supporting scientific marine research operations, ensuring the successful execution of technical programs during scientific cruises.

Role Overview and Contribution

The Oceanographic Specialist plays a critical role in advising scientists on oceanographic projects, encompassing program design and method development. This involves identifying, preparing, and mobilizing appropriate equipment for research activities. A key aspect of the role is maintaining the optimal and safe performance of oceanographic instrumentation and providing essential training to users on the proper use of scientific equipment at sea.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage budgeting, asset management, equipment planning, and ensure the safety of all sea-going equipment.
• Oversee fieldwork planning to guarantee proper implementation in strict compliance with safety standards and operational protocols.
• Coordinate with users, ship crew, and onshore personnel to ensure each research project has necessary resources, training, and authority approvals.
• Collaborate with users to co-develop oceanographic projects, including GIS mapping, bathymetric surveys, water and sediment sampling, and the use of ROVs and AUVs.
• Plan, source, and deploy subsea equipment for operations involving commercial or scientific diving, as well as ROV and AUV utilization.
• Lead maintenance activities and performance assessments of all scientific and lifting equipment installed on vessels, including documentation and reporting.
• Manage the collection, processing, and distribution of all scientific data gathered during cruises.
• Oversee the operation and performance of various sampling instruments, such as CTD and Rosette/Niskin samplers, multi-sensor moored assemblies, remotely operated vehicles, plankton nets, and sediment corers.
• Provide post-cruise reports on equipment performance, including recommendations for modifications, repairs, calibrations, or other necessary interventions.
• Assist with underwater interventions during emergency situations as required.

Experience Requirements

Candidates for this role should possess 5 to 10 years of relevant experience in oceanographic operations and marine research support. This experience should demonstrate a strong background in managing scientific equipment, coordinating field operations, and providing technical guidance.

Work Environment

This position requires a significant amount of time spent at sea, supporting scientific cruises and fieldwork. The specialist will work closely with scientists, ship crew, and onshore personnel in a dynamic research environment.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications for this full-time opportunity at KAUST.