Boat Operator: Small Boat Operator (Intermittent) Pool 2025-2026 This recruitment will be used to fill future part-time, hourly, intermittent (as needed) Boat Operator: Small Boat Operator (Intermittent) positions in the Marine Operations unit within the Division of Research and Innovation at Oregon State University. These positions will be located in Newport, Oregon. Under the direction of the Boating Safety Officer (BSO), the Small Boat Operations Boat Operator performs a wide variety of routine and semiskilled tasks to support Oregon State University's marine research activities. This position works as part of the Small Boat Program (SBP) within the Office of Marine Operations (OMO) and provides essential field-based services including vessel operation, launching and retrieval, trailering, general boat and equipment maintenance, and logistical support for small boat operations. This position plays a key support role in the delivery of marine and freshwater fieldwork, ensuring that university vessels and associated gear are operated safely, maintained effectively, and made ready for research and instructional use by students, faculty, and research collaborators. Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job! Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don't wait for challenges to present themselves we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.
Key Responsibilities:
Vessel Operations and Field Support 70% Operates small research vessels (motorized and non-motorized) in marine and freshwater environments. Trailers, launches, and recovers vessels using full-size trucks and other towing equipment. Assists with on-deck operations including gear deployment, line handling, and routine tasks required to support research missions. Makes basic safety and operational assessments based on environmental conditions and equipment readiness Assists in launching, securing, and mooring vessels before and after use. Equipment and Vessel Maintenance 20% Performs basic maintenance and cleaning of small boats, motors (inboard/outboard), and trailers. Conducts inspections and simple repairs using hand tools and power tools. Fuels vessels, checks fluids, and monitors engine condition. Keeps records of fuel usage, inspections, and minor repairs. Stores, organizes, and inventories boating equipment and supplies. General Support and Recordkeeping 10% Assists in setup and breakdown for trainings, field deployments, and safety drills. Loads and unloads gear and supplies for field operations. Maintains basic logs related to operations, maintenance, and usage. May help guide or coordinate the work of student employees or volunteers on-site. Communicates with staff, researchers, and students to support day-to-day needs of the Small Boat Program. What We Require - MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: High School Diploma and 2 years of vessel operations experience in assigned area of responsibility; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
LICENSINGS/CERTIFICATIONS:
Boater Education Card issued by the State of Oregon or equivalent; Successfully complete First Aid and CPR Training; Successfully complete an internal evaluation of related skills provided by a designated member of OSU's Ship Operations staff; Ability to speak, read and write English; Basic computer skills including use of e-mail, web browsers, word processing.
What You Will Need:
Experience supporting marine research or education fieldwork Ability to interpret technical manuals, safety protocols, and environmental data Familiarity with using hand tools and performing basic maintenance on mechanical equipment such as boat engines or trailers. Ability to foster an inclusive working environment and embrace diversity among students, staff, and researchers Other Minimum Requirements Valid driver's license Meet Coast Guard drug testing requirements Ability to speak, read and write English Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 lbs), work in physically demanding environments, and follow established safety protocols. This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess, and maintain a current, valid driver's license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.Working Conditions / Work Schedule - Frequent outdoor work in all weather conditions, including rain, wind, and cold marine environments. Physical work including loading and unloading boats, trailering, securing equipment, and assisting in rescues or recovery of personnel or gear. Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs regularly. Standing, bending, climbing, and walking for extended periods. Occasional work on boats underway in rough conditions or low visibility. May involve occasional weekend work and overnight travel in support of research activities. Must be able to operate large OSU vehicles including 15-passenger vans and pickup trucks towing boat trailers. Pay Method - Hourly Pay Period - 16th - 15th of the following month Pay Date - Last working day of the month Min Salary - $24.99 Max Salary - $31.63
