Associate Head of Marine Autonomous Robotic Systems (Operations)

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton 

Permanent

Full time (37 hours per week)

£64,545 - £71,003

Who are we?

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.

The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.

Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.

About the role

The Marine Autonomous and Robotic Systems (MARS) facility at the National Oceanography Centre develops, operates and maintains the UK's marine science robotic fleet as part of the National Marine Equipment Pool, the largest centralised marine scientific equipment pool in Europe (https://noc.ac.uk/facilities/national-marine-equipment-pool). 

The MARS fleet consists of AUVs, underwater gliders, uncrewed surface vehicles, ROV and tethered Underwater Vehicles. Each class of vehicles has an associated engineering manager and operationally focussed team of technicians who: maintain, prepare and operate the equipment at sea. The fleet of vehicles is used by the UK oceanographic research community to deliver world leading innovative science. 

The Associate Head of MARS (Operations) will be responsible for oversight of those teams and will work closely with the Head of Marine Facilities Programmes to maintain the multi-year programme of Marine Autonomous Systems (MAS) activities. 

MARS have a worldwide footprint, with various talented multidisciplinary teams deploying and operating our research equipment in both the Arctic, Antarctic and the deep oceans in between. Our systems have surveyed, photographed and sampled the oceans around the world. The focus of the group's work is to support the marine science community and commercial customers in their efforts to understand the ocean and monitor the associated resources. To coordinate and deliver this work we need a highly skilled person capable of coordinating teams of very talented people. We require someone that will understand the very special and transformative work we do at the NOC. 

About you

The Associate Head of MARS (Operations) will be highly accomplished engineer with extensive experience of managing teams and complex engineering operations. You will be capable of leading people with compassion and fostering their skills allowing the teams to reach their maximum potential.

The post holder will play a crucial role in developing links other parts of the community, creating lasting cooperating relationships with marine scientists and technologists in NOC and the broader ocean science community, helping to expand and enhance the service provided by MARS. Your voice will matter from day one, and you will make a long-lasting impact not only in the NOC, but at national and international level.

As an engineering leader you will have the possibility to inform the next generation of robotic ocean observing capabilities, helping the organisation and the UK in the journey to decarbonization. At NOC we value innovative ideas and initiatives, and you will have the opportunity to show this at the world stage. But more importantly than anything else, we value people; you won’t be just a leader, but a role model for the engineers. You will support the engineering managers of the different teams to grow and become leaders. You will do this with honesty and integrity.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays

- a 10% employer contribution pension scheme

- access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues

- access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards

- a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories

- a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations

- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer

Location

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.

The NOC has a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.    

We can support visa applications where required. We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.  

Submitting an application 

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07355 676794.

Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification. 

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 18 December 2024. 

Closing date: 7 February 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants. 

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.