What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Vessel Captain - Scientific Technician 4 - Non-Permanent - 2026-04246 position at Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife?
- Working Title-** Research Vessel Captain
- Classification-** Scientific Technician 4
- Job Status-** Full-Time/Non-Permanent
- Appointment Length-** 12 Months --June 15, 2026 -- June 15, 2027
- WDFW Program-** Fish Program -- Fish Science Division
- Duty Station-** *Port Townsend, Washington -- Jefferson County
- Depending on the successful candidate, a duty station of Mill Creek, Washington -- Snohomish County, may also be considered.
- Closing Date-** 6/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
- This is an opportunity** to serve as the primary captain of the R/V Salish Rover, a 56-ft (52-ton) vessel used to conduct marine fish and ecosystem surveys throughout Puget Sound.
- In this dynamic role,** you will ensure the safe operation and maintenance of a technologically sophisticated research vessel, supporting critical ecosystem and population monitoring work in the marine environment.
- You are excited to** support innovation in marine technology, enable high-quality scientific data collection, and directly contribute to the monitoring and recovery of marine species, including ESA-listed rockfish.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
**Serves as the lead captain of the R/V Salish Rover in support of marine population and ecosystem surveys.**
- Operating/piloting the R/V Salish Rover on multi-day research cruises, navigating throughout Puget Sound, identifying safe overnight anchorages, and adjusting plans according to changing weather and/or ocean conditions.
- Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover power, propulsion, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, gray/blackwater, fire control, lifesaving (life raft, EPIRB, etc.), and communication systems are maintained in good working order.
- Ensuring the R/V Salish Rover hull, superstructure, and crane are maintained in good working order and regularly inspected.
- Continuously monitors VHF radio communications with the USCG and other vessels, including emergency and working channels, to ensure collision avoidance and prompt response to safety broadcasts.
- Maintaining effective communication with crew and scientific staff during docking, transiting complex waterways (e.g. the Ballard Locks), and deploying scientific equipment, while following standard operating procedures and ensuring all personnel adhere to safety and operational protocols.
- Maintaining and archiving vessel log and maintenance records.
- Developing and conducts at-sea safety drills relevant to larger vessel for unit staff, which may include cold-water immersion training, MOB, fire suppression, etc.
- Attaining/maintaining vessel drill instructor training and/or certification through a relevant maritime safety organization such as AMSEA, or similar.
- Reviewing and providing expert input on safety training manuals in development, as needed by the safety office.
Participates in WDFW biennial bottom trawl survey for four weeks every other year, assists with catch processing, data collection and entry, and vessel operation.
Assists with other research as needed, potentially including hook and line sampling, collection of genetic materi