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- Tasks: Support the Legal & Governance team with practical legal advice and contract management.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in ocean research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, flexible working, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on oceanographic research while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Solid grounding in law and strong problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with opportunities for social events and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
National Oceanography Centre, Southampton or Liverpool
Permanent
Full time (37 hours per week)
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
As the Junior Legal Counsel, you will support the Legal & Governance team in providing clear, practical legal advice across NOC. You will help ensure contracts, policies and compliance processes are robust, and that legal and commercial risks are identified and managed effectively. Your work will include drafting and reviewing agreements and supporting the development and maintenance of policies and procedures. This is a varied role with scope to build experience across different areas of law while contributing to NOC’s mission to deepen understanding of and harness the value of the ocean.
About you
You have a solid grounding in law and a practical approach to problem-solving. You are confident assessing legal and commercial risks and helping colleagues find clear, workable solutions. You are a clear and articulate communicator, able to explain legal issues simply and build constructive relationships across the organisation. You work with sound judgement, attention to detail and a solutions-oriented mindset, and motivated to further develop your expertise while supporting NOC in shaping the future of oceanographic research.
Why NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- 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 can be based in Southampton or Liverpool. Our Southampton site 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 Liverpool centre is part of the University campus and is only a short walk from the city centre and Lime Street station.
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 / 07355 676794.
Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.
Additional Information
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: 30/03/2026
Closing date: 13/04/2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.
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Junior Legal Counsel employer: National Oceanography Centre
Contact Detail:
National Oceanography Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Legal Counsel
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the National Oceanography Centre on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your legal knowledge related to marine science. Show us that you’re not just a legal whiz but also passionate about ocean research and its impact!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to explain complex legal issues simply, so grab a friend and do some mock interviews. The clearer you are, the better!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the NOC team!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Legal Counsel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Legal Counsel role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission at NOC!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about oceanographic research and how your legal expertise can support our goals. Remember, no cover letter means no consideration!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, emphasise your practical approach to problem-solving. We’re looking for someone who can assess risks and provide clear solutions, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from interested candidates!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Oceanography Centre
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Brush up on key legal principles relevant to the role of Junior Legal Counsel. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach drafting and reviewing agreements, as well as your understanding of compliance processes. This shows you’re not just a theoretical lawyer but someone who can apply their knowledge practically.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of specific examples where you've successfully identified and managed legal risks in previous roles or during your studies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will demonstrate your practical approach to problem-solving, which is crucial for this position.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms. The interviewers will want to see that you can communicate effectively with colleagues who may not have a legal background. Consider role-playing with a friend to refine your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Research NOC’s Mission
Familiarise yourself with the National Oceanography Centre's mission and recent projects. Understanding their focus on ocean research and how legal counsel fits into that will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in contributing to their goals.