RFI - Wave Glider Piloting Services

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Earthquake Science Center is conducting market research to identify qualified businesses capable of providing Wave Glider piloting services for seafloor geodetic data collection operations. The procurement seeks contractors certified in operating a Wave Glider (SV3-1126) with expertise in the Wave Glider Management System (WGMS) to provide 24-hour remote command and control services. Key requirements include pre- and post-launch support, in-water operations, mission recovery, operational risk assessment, mission planning, navigation through operational tasks, and maintaining continuous situational awareness while coordinating with USGS field teams. Contractors must demonstrate their ability to perform system checks, manage waypoint navigation, respond to environmental conditions and vessel traffic risks, and communicate mission task completions. This sources sought notice requires responses to be submitted electronically to cjfejarang@usgs.gov by Monday, July 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM PDT, and interested parties should submit capabilities statements detailing their ability to meet the statement of work requirements.

This opportunity does not include any set-aside designations and is open to all responsible sources under NAICS code 541360 (Special Studies/Analysis - Oceanological) with an associated size standard of $28.5 million annually. No current contractors or incumbents are identified in the notice, and no specific contract values or budget ranges are disclosed as this is purely a market research initiative. The mission is scheduled for deployment in early August 2025 with an expected duration of 6-8 weeks, though the timeline may be shortened or extended based on operational needs. The USGS emphasizes that this sources sought announcement does not constitute a request for quotes or proposals, represents no commitment to award a contract, and the government will not reimburse any costs incurred in preparing responses. The information gathered will be used solely for planning purposes to assist the government in determining its acquisition strategy for this specialized oceanographic piloting service requirement.