Arne Pallentin
Home base: Wellington, New Zealand
arne.pallentin@outlook.com
(+64) 27 391 4377
I am a seagoing research technician with over 15 years of experience in the marine industry, specializing in acoustic data processing and spatial data management. With extensive commercial experience on research, survey, and rescue vessels, I have a proven track record of delivering high-quality outcomes through analytical problem-solving and effective project management. Known for fostering strong collaborative relationships and maintaining clear communication across all organizational levels, I consistently exceed performance expectations by combining methodical task execution with strategic planning and prioritization. My approach demonstrates exceptional accountability in managing multiple concurrent projects while maintaining superior quality standards and meeting critical deadlines.
Strengths and expertise
✓ Marine Technician with 50+ geophysical and multidisciplinary surveys completed across deep and shallow water environments internationally
✓ Experienced Party Chief leading complex survey operations and diverse teams
✓ MBES specialist implementing international hydrographic standards, with focus on backscatter processing for habitat mapping
✓ GIS expert in spatial analysis, data management, and cartography
✓ Licensed Maritime Professional (SRL-27093, Coastguard Skipper/Instructor, Small Research Boats Skipper)
✓ Implements effective solutions through analytical skills and methodical project execution
✓ Builds strong teams and clear communication while consistently exceeding performance metric
Professional qualifications & positions
2022-present Search and Rescue Officer, Rescue Coordination Centre NZ
2024 Skipper Restricted Limits + <24m (SRL-27093)
2021 Coastguard skipper (ISC), small research boat skipper (ISC)
2014-2021 Principle Technician Marine Geology, NIWA NZ
2014 Kongsberg TOPAS PS18 Sub-Bottom Profiler Operator Training
2012, 2019 Applanix PosPAC MMS
2009, 2014, 2019 STCW 2010 / STCW95
2007 45th Ocean Mapping Group Swath Sonar Course, Cairns, AUS
2006-2014 Marine Geology Technician, NIWA NZ
2005, 2016 CARIS HIPS/SIPS
2005, 2014 Fledermaus Professional
2004-2006 UNCLOS project: Ocean GIS Technician/Analyst, NIWA NZ
2004-present Bi-annual seafarer medical (STCW I/9) and Workplace First Aid
2002-2004 GIS and GeoPhysics support technician, Earth Sciences Department, School of Science and Technology, Waikato University, NZ
1999-2004 PhD courses, Department of Earth Sciences, School of Science & Technology, Waikato University, NZ
1998-1999 IT support, Department of Geology & Palaeontology, Georg August Universität Göttingen
1996-1999 Support of CAD, graphics & specialised printing. GWDG Göttingen - Computer centre, Max Planck Institute
1994-present Academic and industry ESRI ArcGIS
1993-1998 MSc Geology & Paleontology, Georg August Universität Göttingen, Germany
1991-1993 Federal German Navy, Able Seaman navigation, FGS Emden
Sample mapping projects
Ha’apai Group, Tonga, Hydra HYD2401 (September 2024) – Seafloor mapping contractor on Seaworks M/V SEAWORKER and Inkfish launch M/V SKYE.
Pelorous Sound, Admiralty Bay, and Separation Point Surveys for NIWA (2019-2022) – Field team lead, project planning, management and crew on R/V IKATERE.
LINZ Queen Charlotte Sound and Tory Channel Hydrographic Survey (2016-2018) – Field mapping equipment operator, deck/helm duties.
Geosciences Australia (2007) and Oil & Gas sector (2014) – Six-week surveys for commercial clients. Voyage lead, survey development, H&S, contracting and reporting.
Antarctica Ross Sea research voyages (2008, 2018, 2020) – Multidisciplinary surveys. Seafloor mapping lead, watch leader and voyage planning/management.