Mote Marine Laboratory
Boat Captain - Upper Keys Department: Operations/Facilities Employment Status: Regular, Full-time (including benefits).
Position Summary
The Upper Keys Captain is a support position responsible for the safe operation, upkeep, and readiness of vessels, trailers, vehicles, and related equipment used in Mote Marine Laboratory’s research efforts throughout the Upper Florida Keys. In addition to marine operations, the Captain assists with general facility maintenance, repairs, and special projects as assigned. This position ensures that marine and facility assets are maintained in safe, functional condition and that operational needs are met efficiently and reliably. The Captain must maintain strong, proactive communication and coordination with the Upper Keys Captain & Facilities Supervisor, the Regional Manager, and the Upper Keys Field Operations Coordinator to ensure that marine operations, facility maintenance, and field support activities are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with Mote’s restoration and research goals in the Upper Keys.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Marine Operations & Logistics ● Operate Mote vessels (24–36 ft) in support of staff transport, equipment delivery, and scientific diving activities. ● Conduct routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and basic repairs on vessels, trailers, and associated marine equipment. ● Support safe trailering, launching, recovery, and fueling of vessels in accordance with Mote’s protocols. ● Ensure vessel safety gear is present, functioning, and compliant with U.S. Coast Guard regulations. ● Monitor weather and sea conditions to support safe operational decision-making. ● Maintain vessel logs, checklists, and inventory of marine-related tools and materials. ● Clean vessels, gear, and equipment after use, and ensure all items are properly stowed to maintain operational readiness. ● During idle time (e.g., while divers are underwater), maintain a safe and organized deck by stowing items neatly and upholding a tidy work environment. Vehicle & Equipment Support ● Perform basic maintenance on trucks, trailers, and other operational vehicles (e.g., fluid checks, tire inspections, battery service). ● Assist with equipment loading/unloading and transport of supplies and materials between facilities and field sites. Facility Support ● Perform general building and property maintenance, including carpentry, painting, plumbing, and light construction tasks. ● Assist with upkeep of outdoor workspaces, tools, fencing, gates, and storage areas. ● Support special projects as assigned, including infrastructure improvements and operational upgrades. ● Contribute to weather preparedness activities, including securing marine and facility assets in advance of storm events. ● Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas and participate in site-wide upkeep activities.
Minimum Qualifications
● High school diploma or equivalent. ● Valid Florida driver’s license with a clean driving record. ● Authorization to work in the United States. ● Valid U.S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) License or higher required. ● Ability to lift and carry up to 70 lbs safely. ● Proficiency in vessel trailering, launching, recovery, and safe operation. ● Working knowledge of small engine and trailer maintenance. ● Ability to work outdoors in physically demanding conditions. ● Comfortable working on ladders, platforms, docks, and marine vessels. ● Strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. ● Must complete a vessel checkout and skills assessment to demonstrate safe operation, trailering proficiency, and familiarity with Mote procedures prior to independent use of vessels.
Preferred Qualifications
● Experience operating and maintaining small workboats in coastal or nearshore environments. ● Familiarity with coral reef environments, marine fieldwork, or restoration operations. ● Basic facilities skills (e.g., carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, or general construction). ● SCUBA certification (minimum Open Water; Rescue or Dive Professional preferred). ● Experience with workshop tools, fabrication, or facility support systems. Work Schedule and Conditions ● Regular schedule is Monday through Friday. ● Flexibility is required to support operational priorities, field activities, emergencies, weather events, and time-sensitive project needs, including occasional weekends, holidays, or extended hours. ● Position is based in the Upper Florida Keys and may support multiple field sites, nursery facilities, and collaborative initiatives.
Pay: $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
