Position Overview
Can seismic data mules safeguard us from future seismic events? Researchers are exploring innovative seafloor earthquake detection systems to enhance seismic risk detection and warning.

Join a dedicated team focused on improving the performance and dependability of Ocean Bottom Seismographs (OBS) to facilitate the exploration of the Earth's internal structure and its dynamic processes, including earthquake faulting and volcanism. Recent advancements in datalogger efficiency, autonomous timing, acoustic and optical telemetry, alongside the emergence of new low-power, low-noise seismic sensors, present an exciting opportunity to develop a next-generation OBS with enhanced capabilities and extended recording durations.

The Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center (OBSIC) at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking to employ a full-time, entry-level electronics/mechanical engineer in the OBSIC laboratory. OBSIC supplies Ocean Bottom Seismographs (OBS) and provides the necessary technical support for their operation to the academic research community. Under the guidance of experienced OBSIC personnel, you will engage in the design, upkeep, and operation of Ocean-Bottom Seismographs (OBS) and associated support equipment. You will also assist in the mobilization and demobilization of marine seismic experiments. Participation in marine experiments may require travel for up to 3 months annually, including expeditions to various locations.

This is a regular, full-time, exempt role that includes benefits. The internal designation for this position may be either Engineer I, Engineer II, or Research Engineer. The final designation will be determined based on the selected candidate's education and experience level. This position requires on-site work.

Key Responsibilities

We are looking for an engineer with a background in, or a strong desire to learn about, the following areas:

• Assembly and maintenance of seafloor seismographs
• Deployment and recovery of seafloor seismographs
• Analog, digital, and power circuit design
• PCB design, layout, fabrication, and testing processes
• Debugging and testing in both laboratory and field settings
• Low-power, low-noise analog systems
• System integration
• Serial and Ethernet communication
• Experience in writing embedded code in C/C++
• CAD-based design and utilization of DunkWorks
• Design and modification of level systems for new seismic motors

Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with Cadence Allegro/OrCAD Capture and PCB Editor, comfort with Linux OS, embedded systems software, and scripting languages (bash, Python, MATLAB, JavaScript), as well as some experience with embedded microcontrollers.

Engineer I:

• This entry-level position is designed to foster the connection between academic training and practical projects that support scientific and research initiatives. An Engineer I is not expected to remain at this level for more than 1-2 years.

Engineer II:

• With some supervision, this role involves identifying and participating in engineering projects that support scientific and research activities, demonstrating specialized skills. The candidate will be expected to tackle tasks requiring creativity and independent thought, alongside a solid understanding of fundamental research and engineering principles.

Additional Responsibilities:

• As deemed necessary by the supervisor.

Qualifications

Engineer I:

• A degree in engineering or a related field with minimal work experience, or in the absence of a formal degree, evidence of specialized engineering skills acquired through experience.

Engineer II:

• A bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field with relevant experience, or in the absence of a formal degree, evidence of specialized engineering skills acquired through significant experience.

Physical Requirements

Physical duties for this position include, but are not limited to, the ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, twice daily; carry 10-25 lbs, twice daily. Visual abilities must include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and the ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions and communicate effectively in noisy environments. Other physical tasks may involve prolonged standing/walking, use of hands for basic/fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, and working with others. Exposure to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards may occur. Physical duties are subject to change.

Marine Duty

Work may require at least 8 hours per day, and at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days a week. Sleep and work hours may differ from those on land. You may be expected to work on a watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as needed to accomplish planned tasks. Travel during holidays and for long distances may be necessary. Living and working conditions may be basic, with shared quarters and laboratories. Adverse weather conditions, including heavy seas and extreme temperatures, may be experienced. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions may result in active ship motion. Candidates should be able to climb steep ladders and enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Carrying heavy equipment and participating in loading and unloading activities on the ship, as well as tasks on deck and in laboratories during cruises, will be required. The shipboard environment may include confined areas, shared sleeping quarters, basic meal provisions, and limited recreational facilities. Exposure to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes, may occur. Constant and intermittent loud noises and slippery or uneven surfaces may be present.

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