Research Vessel Captain (37.5 Hour)
Location: Old Lyme, CT
Date Opened: 2/25/2026 12:30:00 PM
Salary: $68,622* - $87,595/year (*New state employees start at the minimum)
Job Type: Open to the Public
Close Date: 3/12/2026 11:59:00 PM
Are you seeking career growth within the State of Connecticut? If so, consider this new and exciting opportunity!
The State of Connecticut, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is hiring a Research Vessel Captain to work closely with other Research Vessel Captains as well as the scientific staff of the Bureaus of Natural Resources, and Water Protection and Land Reuse in support of the Long Island Sound Trawl Survey and Long Island Sound Water Quality Monitoring Programs.
The Research Vessel Captain will provide maintenance, logistics and operation of the department’s primary research vessels; a 40-foot catamaran and 50-foot research trawler and periodically operate and maintain smaller vessels. Area of operations is principally Long Island Sound and adjacent rivers and harbors but may include operations in other Atlantic coastal waters.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
Visit our NEW State Employee Benefits Overview page!
Professional growth and development opportunities
A healthy work/life balance to all employees
The State of Connecticut is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer, meaning you may be eligible to have qualifying student loans forgiven after 10 years of service. Click here for more information
POSITION HIGHLIGHTS
Responsibilities of this position include but are not limited to:
Directing operation of assigned vessels in fisheries and environmental monitoring survey;
Supervising and assisting in maintenance;
Repairing necessary modifications of research vessels;
Supervising loading of equipment;
Performing precise stellar, line-of-sight and electronic navigation;
Planning work schedules and assigning duties to crew members;
Keeping records and preparing reports;
May also assist in designing and construction of research equipment in conjunction with other staff;
Promoting teamwork, mutual respect, and open communication among crew members and staff to ensure safe, efficient, and cohesive vessel operations;
Performing related duties as required.
ABOUT US
The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is charged with conserving, improving and protecting the natural resources and the environment of the state of Connecticut as well as making cheaper, cleaner and more reliable energy available for the people and businesses of the state. The agency is also committed to playing a positive role in rebuilding Connecticut’s economy and creating jobs – and to fostering a sustainable and prosperous economic future for the state.
Qualifications & Requirements MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE
Five (5) years of experience in the navigation and operation of motor vessels in coastal waters.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SPECIAL EXPERIENCE
Two (2) years of the General Experience must have been as a captain of a vessel (50 foot or larger).
