Senior Coastal Scientist in Newcastle upon Tyne

Mott MacDonald is a global engineering, management and development consultancy with over 20,000 employees across more than 50 countries and 140+ offices. We work across incredible global industries, delivering exciting work that defines our future and makes a positive societal impact in the communities we serve.

As a key member of the Ports, Coastal and Offshore (PCO) team, you will influence the success of our maritime projects by contributing to outcomes that exceed our clients’ expectations. We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Coastal Scientist to lead and support projects focused on coastal ecosystem management, shoreline resilience and climate adaptation. The successful candidate will bring deep expertise in coastal processes, ecological restoration and data‑driven decision‑making to guide multidisciplinary teams and inform policy and planning efforts. You will provide mentorship to junior team members, support business development and bidding, and offer technical leadership and project management of deliverables.

Candidate Specification

• Master’s degree or PhD in Coastal Science, Marine Biology, Oceanography, Environmental Science or related field.
• Demonstrable professional experience in coastal research, management or consulting.
• Proficiency in GIS, remote sensing and coastal modelling tools (e.g., Delft3D, SWAN, ADCIRC) is advantageous.
• Demonstrated leadership in complex, interdisciplinary projects.
• Ideally chartered with a relevant professional body.
• Familiarity with climate adaptation planning and policy.

Mott MacDonald is one of the global leaders advising a broad range of clients in the planning, design and construction of coastal and offshore infrastructure across an array of size and type. This extends to all stages in the project cycle, from developing innovative coastal erosion business cases and feasibility studies to structural defences and environmental enhancements, and then onto construction supervision. We strive to ensure we provide our clients with the most sustainable solutions, with the UN Sustainable Development Goals forming the heart of what we do.

Agile Working

We offer a hybrid working policy that embraces well‑being, flexibility and trust, allowing you to choose how best to meet your client, team and personal commitments.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business. We promote fair employment practices and ensure equal opportunities for all.

Accessibility

If you are disabled or need any support to enable you to apply or attend an interview, contact reasonable.adjustments@mottmac.com and we will discuss how we can support you.

Benefits

• Private medical insurance for all UK colleagues.
• Health cash plan for everyday health costs and treatments.
• Access to Peppy – free support from menopause experts for all UK colleagues.
• Comprehensive wellbeing programme for you and your family.
• A wide range of specific health benefits that can be extended to your family.
• We match employee pension contributions between 4.5% and 7%.
• Life assurance equal up to 4‑times your basic salary, with an option to increase to 6‑times.
• Income protection scheme covering long‑term illness or injury.
• Flexible benefits including life assurance cover, critical illness insurance, payroll saving and will writing.
• Minimum 33‑35 days holiday each year, inclusive of public holidays.
• Holiday entitlement increases to a minimum of 35 days after 5 years’ service.
• Access to employee saving schemes and high‑street retailer discounts.
• 26 weeks paid maternity and adoption leave, two weeks paid paternity/partner leave.
• Up to 24 weeks paid at full pay for shared parental leave.
• Up to five additional caring days, two of which are paid.
• Primary annual professional institution subscription.
• Opportunities for technical and soft‑skill development through mentoring, formal training and self‑development options.

Apply now or if you would like further information about our application process, click here.

Job Details

• Location(s): Southampton, Croydon, Newcastle‑Upon‑Tyne, Liverpool, Bristol (UK)
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Work Pattern: Full Time
• Market: Transport
• Discipline: Maritime
• Job Ref: 11228
• Recruiter Contact: Ainsley Anstess