Dive Safety Officer and Marine Operations Coordinator

Institutional Mission:  

The School for Field Studies (SFS) creates transformative study abroad experiences through field-based learning and research. Our educational programs explore the human and ecological dimensions of the complex environmental problems faced by our local partners, contributing to sustainable solutions in the places where we live and work. The SFS community is part of a growing network of individuals and institutions committed to environmental stewardship. 

Reports to:
Center Director 

Location:
South Caicos, Turks and Caicos - Center for Marine Resource Studies (CMRS) 

Start Date: 
June 1, 2026 

Position Summary:
Under the general direction of the Center Director, the Diving Safety Officer  / Marine Operations Coordinator (DSO) is responsible for a variety of support duties associated with academic and scientific activities, on and underwater, in order to ensure they are carried out in an effective and safe manner, in accordance with SFS and CMRS specific policies.  

The DSO oversees the routine operation of the waterfront programs, including conducting training, leading waterfront activities (dives and snorkels), certification, and skill assessment for activities based out of the waterfront. This includes, but is not limited to swimming, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. This is a hands-on position and involves frequent SCUBA diving and vessel operation and maintenance, including but not limited to SFS boats, compressor, SCUBA gear, and mooring systems. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Active status SCUBA diving instructor's certification from a nationally recognized agency (iPADI) 

• First Aid/CPR Instructor  

• Oxygen Administration Instructor  

• Extensive small boat handling, operating and maintenance experience  

• Must be mechanically inclined 

• Experience in outboard engine troubleshooting and mechanics  

• Certified in visual inspection for cylinders and experience with hydrostatic testing coordination 

• Related experience with an academic institution 

• Experience with marine rescue and hazard identification 

• Mechanical aptitude, able to trouble shoot problem in complex environment 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Captain's License  

• Bachelor's degree. Marine-related discipline preferred 

• Experience in leadership (management) and personnel supervision 

• Caribbean diving experience and knowledge of marine life preferred 

• Experience with communal living 

• EMT qualified  

• Wilderness First Responder certification