Description

Job Title: Ocean Technologist

Location: Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, Bamfield, BC
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $54,000 - $64,000 annually, commensurate with education and experience
Start Date: September 15th, 2025 
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled

About Us:

The Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (BMSC) is a leading ocean research and education facility located in the traditional territories of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations on the west coast of Vancouver Island. BMSC is dedicated to the exploration and understanding of coastal and marine environments, and is governed by the Pacific Marine Science Alliance (PMSA), whose members include the University of Alberta, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, Simon Fraser University, and University of Victoria. PMSA seeks to inspire transformational relationships with the oceans through science, and has recently launched an ambitious new strategic plan, which focuses on the development of impactful research and educational programs, to better understand ocean weather, costal restoration, and human-ocean interactions.  With support from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, PMSA recently secured Innovation Funding to launch EMPOWER: Ecocosms and Mesocosms Predict Ocean Weather and Ecological Response. The goals of EMPOWER include improving our ability to monitor near-shore ocean weather and better understand its impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem function.

Position Overview:

The Ocean Technologist will play a crucial role in supporting the BMSC’s mission by maintaining research equipment, laboratories, and oceanographic instruments. This position reports to the Head of Research Services (HRS) and collaborates closely with Research Services and the BMSC team to grow our capacity to support oceanographic research, ensure the seamless operation of our research facilities and equipment, and to deliver outstanding services to researchers and students at BMSC.

Key Responsibilities:

• Equipment Maintenance: manage the maintenance of oceanographic instruments such as temperature loggers and/or arrays, continuous flow through systems, CTDs, hydrophones, current profilers and Acoustic Zooplankton Fish Profilers.
• Repairs and Servicing: Manage the repair and servicing of equipment both onsite and externally as needed, calibrating equipment, maintaining accurate service records, and monitoring for QA/QC. Perform some repairs on-site, where possible, and coordinate with instrument manufacturers for off-site repairs.
• Sourcing and Procurement: Identify and source parts and new instruments as required.
• Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs): Develop and implement SOPs for the use and maintenance of equipment.
• Research Support: Assist incoming researchers in setting up research spaces and equipment.
• Training: Provide training on the proper use and maintenance of equipment.
• Fieldwork and Data Collection: Conduct fieldwork to collect oceanographic data using various sampling techniques and equipment.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with researchers, faculty, and students on research projects. Communicate technical information effectively to non-technical staff and stakeholders.
• Boat Handling and Safety: Operate small boats used in fieldwork. Ensure adherence to safety protocols during field operations.

Requirements

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Science (preferably oceanography) or equivalent with at least three years of relevant work experience.
• Proven experience troubleshooting technical issues (both mechanical and electrical) with laboratory and oceanographic equipment.
• WHMIS training and competence in chemical safety protocols.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think independently, creatively and critically.
• Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and students from a range of ocean sciences disciplines.
• Familiarity with a range of instruments, including but not limited to CTDs, hydrophones, current profilers and acoustic sensors.
• Advanced data management and IT skills. Demonstrated proficiency in using advanced computer applications and software tools relevant to oceanographic research, including proficiency with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, R, GIS).
• Basic familiarity with electronics and micro-controllers (e.g. relays and serial port communications)
• SVOP and experience operating small vessels in an ocean environment (or a willingness to learn).
• Ability to independently find solutions based on assessment of instrument manuals, on-line technical resources and other relevant support materials.
• An interest in advancing marine sciences and the collection of high-quality ocean data.

Required:

• Valid driver’s license.
• Satisfactory Criminal Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends, as required.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Exhibit strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects and appropriately prioritize tasks.
• Demonstrate the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Thrive in a problem-solving environment, seeking innovative solutions to challenges.
• Promote a culture of safety, responsibility and respect.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:

The BMSC is dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment. We are committed to removing barriers for equity-seeking groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, visible/racialized minorities, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. We strive to recruit individuals who will enhance our diversity and support their professional success within our community.

Application Process:

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references to Tao Eastham, Head of Programs, at [email protected]. Please submit documents as PDFs and label them clearly with your last name, the position you are applying for, and a short description (e.g., “Lastname_OT_CoverLetter” or “Lastname_OT_CV”).

For further information about the BMSC and our research initiatives, please visit our website at [https://bamfieldmsc.com]. We look forward to receiving your application.