Marine Research Field Technician

Marine Research Field Technician

Part-time l Summer Position  |  Project SHARK  |  Falmouth, MA

Our Blue Horizons (OBH) is a Falmouth-based 501(c)(3) dedicated to marine technology, ocean conservation, and education. We are seeking a motivated, hands-on high school student to join Project SHARK — building and deploying Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVs) and an autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) equipped with research-grade sensors in Cape Cod’s coastal waters.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Fabricate BRUV frames using PVC pipe — cutting, measuring, and gluing to spec
• Mount and configure research sensors: pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, nitrate, and conductivity, cameras, sonar
• Calibrate sensors before field deployments and verify data integrity post-recovery
• Deploy and recover BRUVs from small boats and docks  in coastal Cape Cod waters
• Build a standalone, waterproofed GPS unit configurable to a Raspberry Pi (pelican box or bottle housing)
• Operate independently on multi-step equipment preparation with minimal supervision
• Plot and visualize field data using Excel, Python, or AI-assisted tools
• Maintain meticulous records and attention to detail throughout all fieldwork
• Help build and test an ASV with sidescan sonar
• Test equipment over the side of a boat and or dock

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• On the water: Comfortable working on and around small boats; boating experience a plus
• Building: Experience with tools, PVC, or hands-on DIY construction projects
• Technical aptitude: Interest in electronics, sensors, sonar, or Raspberry Pi / single-board computing
• Data & software: Comfortable in Excel; basic programming or AI tool experience welcome
• Attention to detail: Meticulous care when handling, calibrating, and logging field equipment
• Independent worker: Self-directed, reliable, and able to see projects through independently

REQUIREMENTS

• Currently enrolled student 
• Valid driver’s license — or reliable ability to travel to local field sites required
• Comfortable on and around small watercraft
• Available for flexible scheduling between June and August 2026
• Work in online sharing tools like Slack, Google Drive and Air Table.

COMPENSATION

Pay is commensurate with experience and scheduled hours ($15-$18/hr). This is a flexible, rolling opportunity — hours will vary based on field conditions and your availability from June through August 2026.

HOW TO APPLY

Send a brief cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience, including boating, technology, building equipment to:

Email: info@ourbluehorizons.org

Website: ourbluehorizons.org

Our Blue Horizons, Inc. is committed to ocean education and marine research on Cape Cod and beyond.

Dates

June – August 2026

Scheduling

Rolling / Flexible / P/T

Pay

$15-$18/hr

Location

Falmouth, MA