Function
Research Infrastructure
Group
Research Ships Operations
Chief Petty Officer (Science)
National Oceanography Centre, RRS Discovery / RRS James Cook
Permanent
Full time - Mariner
£44,460
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 UK's Fleet of Scientific Research Vessels provide the ocean-going scientific platforms to support the UK’s worldwide oceanographic research programme. The Research Infrastructure Function, a constituent part of the NOC forms part of the collaborative centre shared with NOC , United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the University of Southampton.
NOC is responsible for the operation and management of two UKRI owned research vessels as well as providing wider support in the co-ordination and management of the UKRI / Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Marine Facility Programme (oceanographic research science).
The successful candidate will work under the Captain and Chief Officer on either Royal Research Ship (RRS) DISCOVERY or RRS JAMES COOK. They will report to the Chief Officer as their direct Line Manager and Head of the Deck Department onboard. Their primary function will be to coordinate and oversee the delivery on deck of marine scientific research onboard including the operation of scientific winches, the deployment and recovery of scientific equipment and moorings and all aspects of associated maintenance. They will also be required to support wider Deck Department activities as and when appropriate.
About you
For this position, it is essential that you hold the following:
- AB (SG1A) Certificate issued by UK MCA (proof required on application)
- Navigation Watch Rating Certificate issued in compliance with STCW 2010;
- MCA Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1) without restrictions or an MCA recognized equivalent (proof required on application).
- Four elements of basic training to STCW 95 (First Aid, Fire Fighting, Personal Survival Techniques and Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities).
- STCW95 Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats;
- Proficiency in Designated Security Duties;
- Valid UK passport or valid passport and a demonstratable right to work in the UK. Please note, NOC is not in position to sponsor an individual's right to work in the UK;
- A valid Discharge Book;
- Be in possession of a US C1/D Visa (or be able to obtain one) and have the ability to undertake unrestricted worldwide travel.
It is essential that you can demonstrate relevant experience of working onboard a scientific research vessel or work in a similar marine sector (i.e. OSV, PSV, ERRV, DSV, etc) at a senior level backed by evidence of appropriate specialist knowledge and experience in the operation and maintenance of overboard handling and lifting equipment and their maintenance. Similar experience gained through working in similar sectors (i.e. offshore, renewables, surveying, seismics, etc.) will also merit consideration.
Hours of Work:
Seagoing tours of duty will normally encompass at least two full scientific expeditions, or a minimum of two months although these tour periods may vary depending on the ship's operational programme. Leave is earnt at the annual rate of 324 days for each year served onboard and accrues at the rate of 27 days for each calendar month of service onboard. Unused leave can be liquidated in accordance with NOC policy.
Why NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 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
- 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
- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
Location
This position will be based onboard one of the two Royal Research Ship (RRS Discovery or RRS James Cook ) operated by NOC. The ships operate world-wide but are based ported at NOC Southampton
Submitting an application
Please 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 [email protected] / 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 candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability.
Date advert posted: 30 June 2026.
Closing date: 28 July 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.
