Vessel Skipper / Operator MaintainerProduction, Engineering in Plymouth

From the Mariana Trench, the deepest point on earth, to surging shorelines and anywhere in-between, we make the impossible possible through our continuous passion for innovation. Our people design, engineer and manufacture technologies that are enabling our customers to discover, navigate, measure, detect and communicate in the toughest environment on earth: our oceans. We’ve been actively developing the technology to make the oceans accessible for over 50 years and we’re only just getting started. At Sonardyne, we value different ways of thinking. Whether you think in code, patterns, systems, or steps, your unique perspective is important to us. At Sonardyne, we don’t just work offshore — we help define what’s possible beneath the surface.

As part of our continued growth, we’re looking for a Vessel Skipper / Operator Maintainer to join our Plymouth-based team, supporting operations, trials, and customer-facing activities across the UK. This is a hands‑on, varied role for someone who thrives in a practical environment, enjoys time on the water, and takes pride in keeping operations running smoothly.

If You Join, You Will Be Responsible For:

• The safe operation, maintenance, and support of Sonardyne vessels and associated equipment.
• Working closely with the wider Customer Support Group, you’ll play a key role in enabling offshore and coastal activities, from trials and demonstrations to internal operations.
• This role combines vessel handling with practical technical support, requiring a proactive and adaptable approach.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Skippering and maintaining Sonardyne vessels in line with regulatory and safety requirements.
• Supporting offshore and coastal operations, including occasional transits and UK travel.
• Assisting with trials, demonstrations, and exhibitions.
• Carrying out routine maintenance and basic fault finding on equipment.
• Supporting safe lifting, rigging, and handling activities where required.
• Ensuring high standards of health, safety, and operational compliance.
• Working collaboratively with internal teams and supporting visits to Head Office when needed.

About You:

You’ll be someone who is reliable, trustworthy, and able to work independently and remain effective in a dynamic environment. Comfortable working independently and as part of a team, adaptable and able to respond to changing operational demands, organised with the ability to manage priorities and deadlines, and customer‑focused, with a commitment to delivering high standards.

What We Are Looking For:

• Background in the marine industry.
• Health & Safety training within a relevant working environment.
• Confident IT user (Microsoft packages).
• Ability to safely handle equipment (up to 25kg, with appropriate support where required).
• Full UK driving licence.
• A practical, hands‑on approach with strong problem‑solving skills.

Desirable:

• Experience with craning, rigging, and lifting operations.
• MCA Cat 2 vessel qualifications.
• Familiarity with Sonardyne equipment (or similar systems).
• Basic marine engineering knowledge.
• Basic electrical and wiring skills.

Why Join Sonardyne?

You’ll be joining a team that values expertise, collaboration, and innovation — working on projects that make a real impact in the marine and subsea world. No two days are the same, and you’ll be part of a supportive environment where your contribution genuinely matters. Ready to get on board? Apply now and be part of something beneath the surface.