Join the USARF

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Interested in working for the USARF? 

We currently have a number of job openings and career opportunities available. Learn about the benefits of working on our vessels. Support groundbreaking oceanographic research while exploring the world. 

 

 

About the USARF:

U.S. Academic Research Fleet currently consists of 18 oceanographic vessels and various submersibles/autonomous vehicles owned by NSF, the Office of Naval Research (ONR), and U.S. universities and laboratories. All of the ARF ships and vehicles are operated by research universities and laboratories. The ARF is a subset of the U.S. Federal Oceanographic Fleet, with collaboration under the Interagency Working Group on Facilities and Infrastructure (IWG-FI). Coordination to access the ARF vessels and vehicles is accomplished through collaboration with the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) organization. Universities and laboratories that operate ARF vessels are designated as UNOLS operators, and as such adhere to the UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards, as well as other applicable U.S. Coast Guard Code of Federal Regulations and International Maritime regulations. All ARF vessels are U.S.-flagged vessels and are tracked by the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration.

The vessels use cutting-edge instrumentation to support all types of oceanographic research from the ocean floor to the ocean-atmosphere interaction. The work is diverse and no two science missions are the same.

Ships of the USARF:

Vessels and Contacts

Find vessel-specific website pages and contact information.

Apply to the Fleet

Please complete this form to apply to work in the USARF.

Job Listings

Live job posts and links to applications.

Submit a Job Posting

This form to be used for UNOLS institutions to post open positions. 

Email Sign-Up

To receive a weekly email of open crew positions aboard the vessels. 

Why work for us?

For a mariner seeking more than just routine voyages, the US Academic Research Fleet offers a unique and compelling career. Imagine contributing to groundbreaking scientific discoveries, exploring the Earth's most remote and fascinating regions, from the polar extremes to the deepest ocean trenches. 

  • As a crew member, you'll operate cutting-edge vessels, work alongside leading scientists, and gain invaluable experience with advanced technologies. This isn't just a job; it's a chance to be part of a mission, expanding our understanding of the planet and playing a vital role in shaping the future of scientific knowledge. 

     

  • Beyond the science, the ARF fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork, where your contributions are valued, and you're part of a supportive and welcoming environment. 

     

  • The ARF provides an unparalleled opportunity to combine your maritime expertise with a passion for exploration and discovery, making every voyage meaningful.
Kudos to the Crew:

"While we were very fortunate to have such great weather during this cruise, our success was largely the result of a fantastic crew.  They are such a great crew because they have an honest and true interest in the research being conducted and thus delight in it being successful.  The captain offered helpful suggestions on locations to measure and collect samples, the marine technician provided excellent support on the ship supplied equipment, and he offered useful comments on how our operations could be conducted more efficiently.  The first mate and the engineer ensured that the vessel and our scientific operations operated efficiently.  The food and living conditions were great.  And the marine superintendent offered excellent support from shore.  I look forward with great anticipation to working with this crew again." - John D. Kessler (Scientist) from the Methane Oxidation II / ID24/4501 on the R/V Blue Heron.