Engineering Assistant I

Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for an Engineering Assistant to join the Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering Department. This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position, and is eligible for full benefits.

The Engineering Assistant will provide electronics and mechanical support for construction, laboratory testing, operation, field installation and maintenance of scientific instruments and platforms, primarily in ice-covered oceans.  Will participate in the organization, interpretation, and summary of test results and acquired experimental data using computer programs.  Requires substantial sea duty (including strenuous labor) in cold regions in late winter and summers.

The internal working title for this position could be either Engineering Assistant I. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience. 

Essential Functions

• Assists in assembly, maintenance, and repair of equipment with instruction and advice; exercises judgment in selecting or adapting procedures and equipment;
• Selects and operates standard test equipment, records test data, and performs routine analyses;
• Conducts various tests or experiments to troubleshoot and correct minor malfunctions.
• With some supervision, applies acquired knowledge of established procedures to the assembly, testing, and use of equipment in support of engineering projects related to oceanographic research.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• As deemed necessary by supervisor

Education & Experience

EDUCATION & REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• High School or equivalent plus one year mechanical or electronics experience, or Technical School training beyond high school level. Applicants are expected to have a basic understanding of and facility with common practical skills related to their area of work

Special Requirements

• Will require Canadian security and health clearances to participate on cruises, and possibly a TWIC card.

• WHOI has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy in effect, where you must register your full vaccination status [vaccination plus booster] in order to begin your employment. The registration process is confidential and entails submitting your official vaccination records, or requesting to engage in the interactive exemption process for either a medical or religious reason. 

Physical Requirements

Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.

Sea Duty

May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.