St. Mary’s College of Maryland is seeking a Director of Marine Science Operations to lead all aspects of boat-based marine education research operations at the College beginning in the spring of 2026. The Director will oversee the College’s research fleet, including a new 46’ Research Vessel, a 23’ Maritime center console, and a 25’ C-Hawk sport cabin, administer the fleet business plan, and teach safe boating skills for undergraduates. This position will also serve as the captain of the 46’ Research Vessel.

Responsibilities include: Coordinating and scheduling boat-based teaching and research needs with internal users and outside institutions. Safely operating the 46’ Research Vessel and supporting efficient accomplishment of boat-based research and teaching goals. Teaching undergraduate classes on safe boat operations, scientific sampling, and use of scientific equipment and instrumentation commonly found on research vessels. Performing routine maintenance and repairs to the vessels, and scheduling and overseeing vendor support when necessary. Routine work includes periodic haul outs for winter maintenance to be performed as independently as possible. Regularly ensuring all vessels are properly outfitted, clean, maintained to a high standard, and in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard and College safety policies. Developing SMCM scientific boating use and safety policies and communicating safety and operational concerns with the Marine Science Scientific Boating Committee. Obtaining a Letter of Designation for the new vessel as a Research Vessel from the USCG OCMI prior to delivery to SMCM. Coordinating with the SMCM Director of the Waterfront for dockage, boat ramp, and other logistical and maintenance needs.

Vessel missions typically include a combination of: towing sophisticated acoustic sensors or nets, deploying and recovering moorings or autonomous vehicles, trawling, bottom sampling, and water sampling. Operations are typically day trips (up to 12 hours) from the St. Mary’s College of Maryland Waterfront. The vessel may be staged away from home port as necessary, and occasional weekend missions and/or outreach activities are required. Customer service includes coordinating with faculty, staff, students, and other science personnel prior to missions on outfitting, operations, and timing details; some of these responsibilities may require communications outside of normal business hours.

Qualifications: U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master Near Coastal License or higher. High school diploma; additional education is a plus. Knowledge of local waters (typical weather, tides, navigation charts and hazards, vessel traffic patterns, etc.). Excellent judgement and decision making skills in regards to safety and operational situations. Proficient in boat handling in close quarters and deployment and recovery of equipment at sea. Experience trailering small boats. Excellent planning, organizational and interpersonal skills in a collegial environment. Experience in supporting marine research and/or shipboard teaching is required. Ability to perform basic boat maintenance, lead seasonal and as needed haulouts and repairs, and, with the assistance of the Marine Science faculty, oversee completion and delivery of the College’s 46’ research vessel. Basic proficiency with the Google suite of applications including word processing and spreadsheet software (Google Sheets, Google Docs, Google Forms, etc.).  Subject to random drug testing; and must possess a valid driver’s license. This position reports to the Associate Dean of Faculty of the North Division and works closely with a team of colleagues in academic departments as well as the Waterfront facilities at SMCM. Any combination of acceptable education and experience, which has provided the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill the requirements of this position, may be considered.  Employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.  Salary range is $78,000 - $83,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

St. Mary's College of Maryland, the National Public honors College, is located in Historic St. Mary's City, 70 miles southeast of Washington, D.C. St. Mary’s College is one of the nation’s best public liberal arts colleges – ranked near the top in U.S. News & World Report and a Best Value for in-state and out-of-state students. Non-sectarian since its founding, the college with its scenic waterfront campus is primarily undergraduate and residential, with a diverse coeducational student body numbering approximately 1600. The up-to-date curriculum is designed for today’s students who want an active, hands-on education led by professors who are committed teachers and experts in their fields. The quality of life is enhanced by the recreational opportunities of the Chesapeake region and close proximity to the amenities of Washington D.C., Baltimore and Richmond.

St. Mary’s College of Maryland embodies diversity and inclusion in its mission. We create an environment that recognizes the value of individual and group differences and we encourage inquiries from applicants who will contribute to our cultural and ethnic diversity. Application materials should include a cover letter (within the cover letter, applicants are requested to speak to ways in which they will foster an environment focused on undergraduate education and elevating the student experience in the Marine Science Department) and resume or curriculum vitae. In support of inclusive hiring practices, the College will also request three professional references (rather than letters of recommendation) at the time of application. References will be contacted only for candidates who advance to finalist interviews. Applications are being accepted online at: apply.interfolio.com180804. Questions may be directed to Dr. Cassie Gurbisz, search committee chair, at cbgurbisz@smcm.edu.

Review of applications will begin March 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. St. Mary’s College of Maryland is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Visit our website: www.smcm.edu/hr