Schmidt Ocean Institute · 19 hours ago
Mechanical Engineer
Seattle, WA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$125K/yr - $155K/yr
10+ years expSchmidt Ocean Institute (SOI) is dedicated to advancing ocean exploration and research through technological innovation. The Mechanical Engineer role involves supporting the operation and development of in-water robotic systems and collaborating with various teams to enhance marine research capabilities.
AssociationMarine TechnologyNon Profit
Responsibilities
Provide technical support for the operation and maintenance of SOI-owned robotic vehicles, in collaboration with the vessel’s technical crew, troubleshooting as needed
Provide technical support for the operation and maintenance of ship-based launch and recovery systems, including overhauls and upgrades, in collaboration with the vessel’s technical crew, troubleshooting as needed
Responsible for the integration of visiting scientists’ sensors and sampling equipment onto robotic vehicles
Support the development and implementation of new marine robotic systems and equipment onto the ship
Assist with research, development, and upgrades to new and existing robotic systems components including, but not limited to, junction boxes, sampling boxes, pressure housings, umbilicals/cables, winches, and docking heads
Conduct engineering analysis in support of at-sea operations, and equipment development including, finite element analysis (FEA), weight and balance optimization, and fabrication feasibility
Design of complex assemblies using 3D modeling using Solidworks
Assist with and participate in Factory Acceptance Trials, Harbor Acceptance Trials, Sea Acceptance Trials, Science Verification Cruises, and robotic instrument maintenance and test cruises as needed
Attend dockside and shipyard repair, upgrade and integration projects up to several weeks at a time
Develop, maintain, and ensure documentation and plans regarding operations of robotic equipment and systems are up-to-date and accurate
Participate and engage the ocean science and engineering community, including but not limited to, international initiatives such as the Scientific Ocean Vehicle Alliance (SOVA)
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering with related experience or mechanical technician with 10+ years of related experience
Extensive knowledge and experience in 3D modeling using Solidworks
Experience designing complex assemblies, conducting engineering reviews, stress analysis (including FEAs), managing fabricators/machinists, and implementing and testing new designs
Electromechanical experience
Excellent communication skills, with experience communicating complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences
Demonstrated hands-on experience
Capable of managing multiple projects and tasks simultaneously
Independent self-starter
Excellent time-management skills
Preferred
Ocean engineering knowledge, specifically with equipment and operations in the deep ocean >1000 meters
Offshore operational experience, preferably with ocean science vehicles (ROVs, AUVs)
Troubleshooting of mechanical systems in the field
Knowledge of materials used in corrosive environments
Experience with large machinery (e.g. cranes, winches, A-frames, hydraulic systems)
Software programming experience, such as Python and Linux
Project management skills
Company
Schmidt Ocean Institute
Schmidt Ocean Institute is focused on advancing oceanographic research, discovery, and knowledge.
11-50 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Schmidt Ocean Institute has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2023 (1)
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Eric King
Senior Director of Maritime Infrastructure
Recent News
The Express Tribune
2025-08-05
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2025-08-04
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