The mission of William & Mary’s Batten School (The Batten School) of Coastal & Marine Sciences & Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service. The Batten School & VIMS make seminal advances in understanding coastal and marine systems through research and discovery, translate research findings into practical solutions to complex issues of societal importance, and provide new generations of researchers, educators, problem solvers, and managers with an education of unsurpassed quality. The Marine Operations Department is comprised of a dedicated group of professionals whose primary function is to provide safe access to the marine environment for all students, staff, faculty and other users and to support the needs of these users as they relate to vessels, field support services, instrument fabrication, equipment repair and servicing. The Able Seaman (AB) position serves as AB on Marine Operations Fleet of Research Vessels. While on the vessel, this position reports to the Captain and helps ensure that vessel and scientific activities are supported as appropriate. The AB follows all established VIMS policies and procedures and performs their duties in a professional manner that is in line with best marine practices. Adheres to all United States Coast Guard regulations as they apply to the position. Job Description:Required Qualifications. Education:High school diploma or equivalent. Merchant Mariner Credential with OS certification issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Valid TWIC STCW credential appropriate for vessel tonnage or the ability to obtain within first six months of hire. Competencies:Knowledge of basic deck operations including, but not limited to handling mooring lines, tag lines, securing equipment on deck, assist in the deployment and recover of gear. - Basic understanding of vessel operating principles and practices, and familiarity with the operation of deck equipment such as winches, deck cranes and frames. Strong communication and interactive skills, with the ability to work with diverse groups. Sufficient strength and physical dexterity to perform all responsibilities while being exposed to inclement weather at sea for extended periods of time. Experience:Valid Driver’s License Basic seamanship and general mechanical skills. Able to work on both land and sea. Broad and comprehensive knowledge of vessel operation and safety. Preferred Qualifications. Education:Any license (Deck or Engineering) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Certified in First Aid/ CPR - Valid Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) credential. Valid STCW credential appropriate for vessel tonnage. Competencies:Knowledge of the Chesapeake Bay and it’s tributaries. Strong understanding of the operation of deck equipment including winches, deck cranes and frames. Basic familiarity with scientific instrumentation and gear used to collect scientific data. Experience:Experience working on research vessels or supporting science at sea. Experience working with Safety Management Systems (SMS) as defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) or experience with maritime specific safety programs. Salary- $20.00 per hour.