Aquatic Robotics Team Lead, Hydrographic Science Research Center

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Aquatic Robotics Team Lead, Hydrographic Science Research Center.

Position Details

Location John C. Stennis Space Center

1020 Balch Blvd

Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529

United States

Division Hydrographic Science Research

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded Yes

Posting Close Date Open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Please submit cover letter, CV and a list of three references with your job application. The successful candidate will be subject to a USM background check and additional background check by NASA Stennis Space Center, where job is located. This position will not provide visa sponsorship, applicant must be eligible to receive a license under the U.S. International Tarriff and Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or a U.S. security clearance.

Job Summary

The Hydrographic Science Research Center (HSRC) at The University of Southern Mississippi is seeking to hire an Aquatic Robotics Team Lead for its aquatic robotics team. As part of a multidisciplinary research team this position works in association with the Director in operating the uncrewed systems (UxS) mapping activities of the research center, leading the research in advancing autonomy in ocean and inland water environmental mapping. The HSRC UxS facilities include Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USV), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Pursues funding for the aquatic robotics team through writing grants, meeting with program managers at funding agencies and presenting HSRC UxS research results at national and international conferences.

• Coordinates and directs grant-funded research projects, including developing, planning, organizing, and carrying out new and existing research programs. Authors papers in refereed journals and writes technical reports.

• Coordinates and directs HSRC UxS activities in the research center. In this position they will be responsible for all AUV operations, mobilization, demobilization, missions (e.g., at-sea AUV cruises), checklist.

• Supervising the aquatic robotics engineering team and funded graduate students.

• Participate in project meetings, lead\coordinate the project team members, and performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

M.S. degree. from an accredited university in hydrographic science, geological oceanography, marine geophysics, ocean engineering, or related field, and 3 years’ experience in seafloor mapping with multibeam systems from UxS platforms and processing the data into final products. A record of external funding and research publications commensurate with career history.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Business Strategy & Acumen : Understands higher education and can use industry/professional terminology fluently. Thinks strategically and seeks to align center services and goals with institutional strategic goals. Asks critical questions to delve to root cause to identify solutions. Understands the interconnection of decisions, actions, outcomes and measures.

• Professional Knowledge and Application : Takes initiative to develop and apply professional knowledge and skills in order to enhance individual effectiveness and improve organizational performance. Creates opportunities to apply new learnings and best practices into innovative solutions that positively impact results. Seeks opportunities for development for both self and the team.

• Business Execution : Leverages professional expertise and University knowledge to assess areas of opportunity, identify solutions and effectively execute the plan. Demonstrates a high level of planning and organizational skills and the ability to move projects forward to completion. Self-motivated and accountable for results. Seeks advice and input from others and recognizes when to escalate issues or seek help.

• Communication : Demonstrates the ability to deliver accurate, concise and quality communication (verbal and written) in a timely manner. Encourages an open exchange of ideas and differing perspectives. Adapts communication style to meet the needs of diverse audiences and situations. Listens to understand others. Provides quality feedback.

• Relationship Management : Works to build and manage productive relationships with peers, leaders and stakeholder groups. Effectively engages and interacts with others to collaborate and provide value-added support that enhances center results and team effectiveness. Affects outcomes and direction of stakeholder’s decisions through effective relationships, trust and credibility.

• Leadership : Demonstrates an openness and flexibility towards new ideas and concepts and effectively influences or facilitates during times of change. Helps others become more effective through development and coaching. Utilizes candid feedback, knowledge, resources and opportunities to improve the performance of others and to increase their contributions. Sets clear expectations for performance, provides meaningful feedback, holds employees accountable and recognizes successes.

Preferred Qualifications

Ph.D in hydrographic science, geological oceanography, marine geophysics, ocean engineering, or related field from an accredited university and 5+ years’ experience in seafloor mapping with multibeam, side scan sonar, chirp from both surface and subsurface UxS, and laser and passive optical sensors. Application of Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning to UsX adaptive and swarm missions. Knowledge and skills in state-of-the-art processing techniques for multibeam backscatter and water column data. A record of managing large research projects.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.