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 Engagement Assistant plays a vital role in supporting our External Communications team as we develop and deliver excellent communication practices, tools and channels.

The successful candidate will provide a wide range of support including:

- Helping to gather stories and updates from scientists, engineering and project teams

- Helping to coordinate interview requests and media queries

- Supporting internal events

- Organising the storing and distribution of display conference materials and exhibitions stands

- Supporting the Photography and Videography Officer during photoshoots and filming, both on site and on location

- Supporting the Graphic Designer with ad-hoc design requirements

This is an exceptional opportunity for anyone wishing to develop their career in external communications.

About you

We are looking for someone with a passion for communication and a genuine interest in marine/ocean science, engineering, and technology.

The successful candidate will need strong written and verbal skills, with the ability to translate complex subject matter into effective communications. Good organisational skills with excellent attention to administrative detail will be vital.

You should have experience of supporting colleagues quickly and professionally and be able to build relationships with a diverse range of people.

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 (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)

- Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment, plus access to a range of other Aviva wellbeing services

- financial support for relocation

- a salary sacrifice scheme for electric / hybrid vehicles (qualifying period applies)

- access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential 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.

We have 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.

Submitting an application

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648.

Please note that as part of your application you will be asked the following question:

‘In no more than 300 words please give an example of when you have translated complex subject matter into effective communications.’

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.

Date advert posted: 14 May 2026.

Closing date: 11 June 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.

Engagement Assistant (External Communications)