Hydrographic Instrumentation \& Vessel Operations Specialist
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Hydrographic Instrumentation \& Vessel Operations Specialist.
Position Details
Location John C. Stennis Space Center
1020 Balch Blvd
Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529
United States
Division Marine Science
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Part Time
Grant Funded No
Salary Range 24\.00 \- 24\.00
Pay Grade
Posting Close Date April 22, 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
The Hydrographic Science Program at USM seeks a highly skilled, safety\-focused Hydrographic Instrumentation \& Vessel Operations Specialist on a part\-time, as\-needed basis. This hands\-on role is primarily responsible for safely operating survey vessels and ensuring the program’s boats and trailers are maintained in excellent, safe working condition for student use. The specialist will also provide direct support for hands\-on practical exercises that are central to the undergraduate and graduate hydrographic science curriculum.
This position focuses on vessel and trailer safety and readiness, with occasional assistance in field exercises at Stennis Space Center, the Gulf Park campus in Long Beach, and surrounding coastal areas.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Ensure vessels are operated safely during educational hydrographic surveys and training exercises in local coastal and marine waters.
- Perform routine and preventative maintenance on vessels, trailers, and associated equipment, including engines, fuel systems, electrical systems, marine electronics, navigation and safety gear, tires, brakes, and hull care.
- Operate, maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair hydrographic survey instrumentation, including singlebeam, multibeam and sidescan sonar systems, lidar, Applanix POS/MV, GNSS receivers and antennas, total stations, digital levels, and water sampling sensors.
- Coordinate with course instructors to prepare all hardware, software, vessels, trucks, and tools for undergraduate and graduate practical exercises; assist in the mobilization efforts.
- Provide technical guidance and hands\-on training to students on vessel handling, trailering, and equipment operation during field activities.
- Additional duties as needed.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to diagnose and resolve equipment and vessel issues.
- Commitment to safety and maintaining high standards for student\-use equipment and vessels.
- Ability to work effectively and collegially with students, staff, and faculty from all backgrounds.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Strong work ethic with a focus for continuous improvement and attention to detail.
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum of 3 years of hands\-on experience operating and maintaining hydrographic survey equipment (singlebeam, multibeam, sidescan, GNSS/INS, total stations, etc).
Valid driver’s license and ability to tow vessels and trailers.
Experienced small boat operator.
Working knowledge of common hydrographic data acquisition and processing software.
Knowledge, Skills \& Abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with Qinsy, Hypack, SBG, and Applanix systems.
Bachelor’s degree in marine science, hydrography, engineering, or a closely related field.
5\+ years experience in small boat operations, hydrographic surveys, and equipment maintenance.
USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) or higher license.
Prior experience in a university or educational hydrographic program.
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.