External Communications Officer

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton

Permanent

Full time (37 hours per week)

£32,529

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

We are looking for an External Communications Officer with an interest in science, technology or the environment, passionate about making complex topics and research accessible to a wider audience.  As we continue to grow as an independent research organisation, this role is integral in helping us to tell a compelling, differentiating story with clarity of purpose to enthuse, engage and enrol. 

Our aim at NOC is to enable everyone to feel empowered and inspired to help our oceans thrive. You will be a key part of helping our stakeholders, partners and the public understand our work and support our goals, working within NOC’s Communications team, and a wider Engagement team, full of passionate and driven people who want to be part of NOC's success.  

About you

As the main contact into our science, technology, and marine facilities teams, you will have excellent interpersonal communications skills, responsible for identifying key messages, gathering stories and content as well as supporting events and campaigns.

You will have a passion for sharing knowledge and news with broad audiences, skilled in translating complex issues into engaging copy. As a member of the Communications team, you’ll be skilled in storytelling and able to tailor messaging for different audiences and platforms, working closely with colleagues in the wider Engagement function to create and share content aligned to our Communications Strategy.

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

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 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 / 07955 851648.

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 suitable candidates with a disability. The NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 11 April 2024.

Closing date: 9 May 2024. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants. 

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