What are the responsibilities and job description for the Ocean Engineer I position at The University of Southern Mississippi?
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Ocean Engineer I.
Position Details Location Marine Research Center
1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States Division Ocean Enterprise Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade
E11
Posting Close Date August 13, 2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
This position requires a diverse skillset that applies science and engineering principles to the ocean environment. It encompasses the integration, design, construction, and maintenance of ocean monitoring equipment for use on stationary platforms and in autonomous vehicles. Work is performed using independent judgement under the limited supervision of a higher-level scientist or technical supervisor. This position is located at the Marine Research Center, in Gulfport MS and is part of the USM Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise.
Primary Duties And Responsibilities
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Ocean Engineering, remote sensing, physical science, or a closely related field and 2-4 years’ hands-on experience with ocean observing instrumentation and remote vehicle operations.
About The University Of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
Position Details Location Marine Research Center
1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States Division Ocean Enterprise Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade
E11
Posting Close Date August 13, 2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
This position requires a diverse skillset that applies science and engineering principles to the ocean environment. It encompasses the integration, design, construction, and maintenance of ocean monitoring equipment for use on stationary platforms and in autonomous vehicles. Work is performed using independent judgement under the limited supervision of a higher-level scientist or technical supervisor. This position is located at the Marine Research Center, in Gulfport MS and is part of the USM Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise.
Primary Duties And Responsibilities
- Evaluate instrument capabilities based on mission requirements and make recommendations on instruments best suited for any specific study or test to be performed.
- Design and fabricate equipment housings that will facilitate the best use of limited space in uncrewed (UxS) systems.
- Integrate instruments into autonomous vehicles based on available space and power to maximize performance while limiting design modifications to avoid degradation of UxS performance.
- Monitor equipment and UxS performance and make any necessary adjustments to the vehicles or plans to maximize capabilities of individual sensors and vehicles.
- Contribute to test plans and participate in test and evaluation of systems and vehicles and perform analysis of data collected.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Proficient writing skills are necessary to perform stated duties.
- Ability to effectively present information, prepare written test plans and author technical findings in the form of research papers and customer required reports.
- Demonstrated problem solving skills and an understanding of engineering data, schematics and studies.
- Must be capable of responding to questions from groups of data science professionals, customers, and the public.
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Ocean Engineering, remote sensing, physical science, or a closely related field and 2-4 years’ hands-on experience with ocean observing instrumentation and remote vehicle operations.
About The University Of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.