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

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced engineer to join the MARS group as Engineering Manager for the ROV Team.

The Marine Autonomous and Robotic Systems (MARS) group operates and maintains an extensive fleet of autonomous and robotic maritime platforms, including the UK's National Marine Equipment Pool (NMEP) - the largest centralised marine scientific equipment pool in Europe (https://noc.ac.uk/facilities/national-marine-equipment-pool).

You will lead a close-knit, dedicated and enthusiastic multidisciplinary team operating our 6,500m-rated ROV, Isis, and our Modular Payload Underwater System, MPUS (replacement for Hybis), worldwide (https://www.noc.ac.uk/our-work/marine-technology/ocean-vehicles/remotely-operated-vehicles).

This role offers an exciting opportunity to advance a key capability and lead operations at the forefront of marine science. You will oversee the collection of high-quality ocean data that underpins the NOC, and the wider UK oceanographic community, in achieving world-class marine science. The work you lead—together with a skilled and dedicated team—will make a significant and lasting contribution to ocean science.

The role will involve managing the day-to-day work of the ROV team, and will include:

· Managing delivery of the operational, technical and safety aspects of NOC’s ROV deployments.

· Creating and monitoring work plans, defining priorities, carrying out financial planning and budget management. Making sure all activities are planned and delivered safely, in line with standards, safety requirements and legislation.

· Providing technical oversight of development, integration and troubleshooting of systems and upgrades for the ROVs, and ensure that all equipment is maintained in preparation for research expeditions. This includes the creation, use and update of standard operating procedures and emergency procedures.

· Producing and/or reviewing technical solutions and guiding the team in solving complex technical problems.

· Providing mentoring, guidance and objectives for the team.

· Engaging with MARS, NOC and science stakeholders to deliver effective ROV operations that are consistent with NOC protocols and best practice.

· Providing seagoing operational leadership and support of the ROVs (and other assets as required). This includes planning and coordinating missions, managing risks and oversight of all operational aspects of the ROVs whilst deployed.

· Working with other MARS senior team members to support group operation and help define the strategic objectives for MARS.

This role will involve time aboard Research Vessels to support the delivery of this capability.

About you

You will enjoy working within a team, sharing, and debating ideas and best practice. Your ideas and leadership will help the team to deliver to their full potential. You will help evolve the team culture, fostering individuals’ growth while promoting respect and inclusivity

The ideal candidate will:

· Be qualified to HNC/HND or higher in a directly relevant engineering discipline or degree level or higher in a related discipline.

· Have significant relevant experience in leading engineering design and development, in conducting trials and/or operational deployments of complex systems (preferably marine), and in providing expert technical advice in complex, multidisciplinary project environments.

· Have an in-depth knowledge of deep ocean science, engineering and technology, preferably including considerable experience in the operation of ROV systems.

· Have a broad engineering knowledge with a basic understanding of physics, mechanical engineering, electronics, electrical systems, and software development.

· Have a proven track record of team leadership and successful project management, including good interpersonal skills and the ability to lead and motivate a small, highly-skilled team.

· Have excellent written and verbal communication skills and be able to demonstrate these through documentation produced and presentations given.

· Have experience of liaising with potential funders, project partners and stake holders.

· Be self-motivated, proactive, flexible and innovative with the ability to resolve issues under challenging situations at sea, and to produce high quality reliable work at base.

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: 29/05/2026

Closing date: 26/06/2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

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

ROV Engineering Manager