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Overview

The Coastal Sciences Division, headquartered at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Sequim Marine Research Operations on Washington State's Olympic Peninsula, is the Department of Energy's only marine research laboratory. This unique facility and the capabilities of its researchers deliver science and technology that is critical to the nation's energy, environmental and security future.

Building upon a history of research related to marine and coastal resources, environmental chemistry, water resources modeling, ecotoxicology and biotechnology—and more recently, national and homeland security—the MSL is emerging as a leader in these three areas:

+ Enabling sustainable development of ocean energy

+ Understanding and mitigating long-term impacts of human activities, including climate change, on marine resources

+ Protecting coastal environments from security threats

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Marine Operations Manager to join our Coastal Sciences Division (CSD) team. This role involves managing marine operations and administration of research vessels including the R/V Resilience, R/V Desdemona, R/V Strait Science and smaller boat fleet, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, operating vessels and advising a team of talented research professionals to build and strengthen our coastal boating program. We are actively extending our current boating operations out into full ocean conditions, and this manager will lead these efforts. As part of a PNNL team of researchers this position will contribute to cutting-edge research and play a critical role in advancing our Department of Energy (DOE) mission to solve complex challenges in the marine environment. This position will report directly to the CSD Division Director.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operations of research vessels, equipment, and personnel. This position requires a deep understanding of maritime regulations, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to coordinate with various stakeholders including researchers, managers, subject matter experts and sponsors. We are seeking applicants with a proactive and collaborative approach to problem-solving, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure. The successful candidate will have a proven track record in marine operations, a strong understanding of research deployments and ability to work with a diverse team of research professionals. If you have a passion for marine operations in support of PNNL’s research and a commitment to excellence, we invite you to apply for this challenging and rewarding position.

Decisions required of the Manager of Marine Operations must be based on a strong technical and operational foundation in the related fields of ship operations, oceanographic instrumentation, maritime law, naval architecture, marine engineering, and ship handling. Much of the work performed at sea on a research vessel is inherently risky, including the use of winches and cranes to deploy instruments over the side of the ship into the dynamic ocean environment. By the very nature of oceanographic research, many of these systems are experimental and have never been deployed at sea before.

Responsibilities

Integrates operational capabilities, requirements, and solutions across research and support organizations to enable and enhance effective and efficient project execution in support of the Lab's mission. Maintains an awareness of existing and planned changes in the operational risk profile of assigned envelope. Maintains situational awareness of operational needs and emerging regulatory requirements, providing analysis of options and recommendations to mitigate exposure to operational risk and reduce the frequency of operational upset conditions. During upset conditions, assists management in the identification and implementation of immediate actions. This may include leading or participating in critiques and accident investigation, participating in causal analyses, and identifying and managing corrective actions and lessons learned. Evaluates the need for, and provides necessary Subject Matter Expert (SME) support to line management, staff, and Project Management Offices to assist with assessment activities and risk identification and mitigation. Manages the day-to-day work being conducted in Lab Assist spaces including coordinating, scheduling, and logistics of research staff, crafts personnel, and other visiting researchers. Maintains and manages the utilization of equipment, systems, and capabilities within the Lab Assist space. Coordinates operations and performs duties within the DOE and appropriate regulatory agencies requirements.

Assist the Energy and Environment Directorate (EED) Operations Manager and Coastal Sciences Division (CSD) Group Leaders in managing marine operations of a fleet of inboard and outboard vessels & trailers.

Specific Responsibilities Include:

+ **Lead Marine Research Operations:** Drive marine research operations ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and compliance with all relevant regulations.

+ **Safety and Compliance Leadership:** Create and maintain a culture of safety and continuous improvement; ensure adherence to OSHA, PNNL, and maintenance standards.

+ **Vessel Operation and System Deployments:** Safely operate vessels while deploying and recovering prototype marine sensors and systems, maintaining vigilance and operational efficacy under diverse conditions.

+ **Schedule and Mission Planning:** Manage vessel schedules and mission planning to meet research goals, considering vessel capabilities, equipment, crew, weather, and safety considerations.

+ **Vessel Maintenance Oversight:** Serve as Port Engineer/contract administrator and point of contact for maintenance, managing preventative maintenance, repair and inspection packages with relevant stakeholders and managing budgets.

+ **Operational Assessments:** Lead assessments of the marine program at the PNNL Sequim Campus to identify improvements and optimize operations.

+ **Mobilization and Demobilization:** Spearhead the mobilization and demobilization processes for ocean-based research expeditions.

+ **Deck Configuration Management:** Ensure vessels are equipped to conduct planned work, coordinating with project managers to correctly set up deck gear and configurations.

+ **Stakeholder Coordination:** Facilitate coordination among researchers, managers, support services, sponsors, and dive program scheduling.

+ **Training and Mentorship:** Provide training, mentorship, and development opportunities, ensuring team members are thoroughly prepared for marine-focused tasks.

+ **Operational Policy Development:** Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to standardize practices and improve efficiency.

+ **Performance Monitoring and Response:** Monitor and evaluate performance metrics, handle emergency situations, and coordinate response efforts efficiently.

+ **Resource and Budget Management:** Prepare and manage budgets, handle procurement responsibilities, and oversee resource allocation.

+ **Conflict Resolution:** Proactively address and resolve any operational issues and conflicts that may arise swiftly and effectively.

+ **Security and Documentation:** Implement security measures to safeguard assets, ensuring accurate documentation and record-keeping.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

+ BS/BA and 7 years of relevant experience -OR-

+ MS/MA or higher and 5 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

+ A bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies, Ocean-based Engineering, Operations Management, Maritime Transportation, or any related field) and a minimum six years’ experience leading or supporting complex oceanographic operations over a wide geographic range.

+ Expertise in marine engineering, deployment/recovery of research sensors, moorings and systems, navigation, and vessel maintenance.

+ Understanding of environmental regulations and a commitment to sustainability practices in marine operations and a strong knowledge of maritime regulations and safety standards.

+ Excellent leadership and team management skills.

+ Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

+ Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities

+ Ability to work under pressure and handle emergency situations with flexibility to adapt to changing conditions and requirements.

+ Proven ability to collaboratively manage complex operations and logistics.

+ Ability to develop and implement operational policies and procedures.

+ Ability to manage multiple projects/budgets and coordinate with various stakeholders. High comfort level working in a matrix managed organization.

+ Fiscal management experience including experience with vessel budgets and out year planning.

+ Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

+ U.S. Coast Guard license as Master (any tonnage).

+ Relevant certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers), USCG nearshore credentials or similar.

+ Willingness to work irregular hours and be on-call as needed.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

This position will require working outdoors on research vessels, and in marine environments.

Additional Information

Not Applicable.

Testing Designated Position

This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP). The candidate selected for this position will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with the Controlled Substances Act and the PNNL Workplace Substance Abuse Program.

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment Opportunity

Our laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at [email protected] .

Drug Free Workplace

PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.

If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements

In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO)risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

Mandatory Requirements

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.

Rockstar Rewards

Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, supplemental parental bonding leave**, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401k savings plan. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.

* Research Associates excluded.

**Once eligibility requirements are met.

Click Here For Rockstar Rewards (https://careers.pnnl.gov/rockstar-rewards)

Notice to Applicants

PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary

USD $105,600.00/Yr.

Maximum Salary

USD $163,500.00/Yr.