VESSEL OPERATOR/FIELD ASSISTANT – JOB DESCRIPTION

 

Overview:

 

The Vessel Operator / Field Assistant (VO/FA) is a seasonal, remote position based at Alaska Whale Foundation’s (AWF) field station in Warm Springs Bay on Baranof Island, Southeast Alaska (N57.0856; W134.8126) - a small, summer community with ~ 15 cabins, accessible only by boat or seaplane - during AWF’s primary summer research season. The VO/FA plays a critical role in supporting AWF’s whale and ocean health research by safely operating the organization's two research vessels – a 28’ aluminum Hewes Craft Pacific Explorer and a 20’ Zodiac rigid-hull inflatable boat - and assisting with on-the-water and shore-based field activities in a remote marine environment. This position requires strong marine operations and risk management skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively within a close-knit 4-person field team for extended periods in Southeast Alaska.

 

Position Details:

 

• Title: Vessel Operator/Field Assistant 

• Date of Contract: May 27 – September 30, 2026 (non-negotiable)

• Compensation: $20,000 (negotiable, based upon experience level) 

• AWF Provides:

• Domestic travel to/from Sitka, Alaska, and in-state travel to/from AWF’s field station at the start and end of the contract

• Room and board while in the field

 

Key Responsibilities:

 

Vessel Operations

• Serve as primary or supporting operator of AWF’s two research vessels – a 28’ aluminum Hewe’s Craft Pacific Explorer and a 20’ Zodiac rigid-hull inflatable boat - during daily field operations

• Manage basic day-to-day vessel readiness, including fueling and routine engine checks in a remote environment

• Maintain accurate vessel logs and operational records and communicate vessel-related issues promptly to the Executive Director 

• Support safe navigation and decision-making in variable weather and sea conditions

 

Research & Field Support

• Participate in on-the-water research activities to support data collection, including but not limited to whale photo-identification, drone surveys, and oceanographic sampling. 

• Coordinate with researchers and assist with field logistics, equipment handling, and general research operations, as needed.

• When off the water, assist research team with general organization and basic research tasks, including data processing.

• Support a positive, professional, and safety-focused team environment in the field.

 

Additional Details and Desired Attributes:

 

The VO/FA role demands a high level of situational awareness, adaptability, and interpersonal skills. The position involves ongoing decision-making that balances weather, safety, research priorities, and vessel operations in a remote and dynamic marine setting. Successful candidates will demonstrate maturity, discretion, flexibility, and the ability to maintain professionalism and healthy boundaries while living and working closely with others for extended periods. Comfort working in remote conditions, contributing to shared living responsibilities, and maintaining a collaborative team dynamic is essential. 

 

Please note that work hours associated with this seasonal position may be irregular, and that the remote nature of Warm Springs Bay precludes mid-season departures or personal visitors. 

 

Qualifications

 

Required:

• Demonstrated experience operating small vessels in coastal or nearshore marine environments

• Strong knowledge of marine safety practices and navigation

• Ability to work long days on the water in variable weather conditions

• Ability to live in a remote, shared, communal housing environment

 

Preferred:

• Familiarity with Southeast Alaska waters and operating conditions

• Previous experience supporting marine research or field-based science programs

• First Aid / CPR certification / Wilderness First Aid (or willingness to obtain)

• Small boat operator certification or equivalent experience

 

Interested applicants should submit the following materials as a single PDF:

 

1. Cover letter describing relevant vessel operations experience, fieldwork background, and interest in working with Alaska Whale Foundation

2. Current résumé or CV

3. Contact information for two professional references 

 

Please email application materials to info@alaskawhalefoundation.org with the subject line: “Vessel Operator / Field Assistant Application – [Your Name]”

 

Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.