At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to operate vessels and support marine testing in exciting environments.
- Company: Sonardyne, a leader in marine technology innovation for over 50 years.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and opportunities for travel and growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on safety, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make waves in marine technology while working with cutting-edge equipment and passionate teams.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence, towing experience, and a passion for marine operations.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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.
About the Role
We are looking for a practical, adaptable and safety-focused individual to join our Production Team in a hands‑on operational role supporting marine testing, calibration and manufacturing activities. This position combines vessel operations, towing and transport responsibilities with technical production support. The successful candidate will help deliver calibration and testing activities across inland and coastal environments, while ensuring the safe transport, launch and operation of vessels and associated equipment. Working closely with Production, Engineering and Applications teams, you will contribute to the delivery of high-quality marine technology systems through a proactive, detail-oriented and collaborative approach.
Key Responsibilities
- Marine Operations Towing & Transport: Safely tow vessels and trailers (up to 3.5 tonnes) across the UK and, on occasion, Europe. Carry out pre-journey inspections and ensure compliance with UK towing and road transport regulations. Maintain accurate transport documentation and vehicle records. Promote safe loading, securing and transportation practices at all times.
- Launch & Recovery: Launch and recover vessels from a range of slipways and operational sites. Ensure the safe handling and securing of equipment during deployment and recovery activities.
- Vessel Operations: Operate vessels in support of engineering trials, production testing and calibration activities. Support the use of onboard 12V electronics, networking and NMEA systems. Work collaboratively with engineering teams to support accurate positioning, testing and data collection. Carry out routine maintenance checks on vessels and trailers, escalating issues where required.
- Safety & Compliance: Follow maritime and road transport safety procedures and company policies. Carry out risk assessments and maintain a safety-first approach in all operational activities. Support safe team working practices, including non-lone working requirements. Coordinate vessel availability and scheduling with Production and Engineering teams.
- Engineering & Technical Support: Support manufacturing and systems testing activities. Interpret and review test data against calibration and pass/fail criteria. Assist Applications Engineering teams with technical initiatives and development activities. Support in‑house calibration processes using company test facilities and test tanks. Maintain accurate records and documentation associated with testing and calibration work. Use IT systems confidently, particularly Microsoft Excel and networked environments.
- Delivery & Logistics Support: Complete scheduled deliveries and collections of equipment, components and materials. Follow planned delivery routes and schedules efficiently and professionally. Load and unload equipment safely and accurately.
- Planning & Coordination: Work closely with Vessel Operations, Production Planning and Production teams to support calibration and delivery scheduling in line with operational demand.
What We’re Looking For
- Full UK driving licence with B+E towing entitlement.
- Experience towing trailers and launching/recovering vessels.
- Good understanding of maritime safety and navigation practices.
- Background in systems testing, electronics, manufacturing or technical engineering support.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
- Flexible approach to working hours and willingness to travel, including occasional overnight stays.
Desirable Skills & Qualifications
- RYA Powerboat Level 2 (or higher) with commercial endorsement.
- Experience supporting marine engineering, survey or scientific trials.
- Familiarity with marine navigation or underwater technology systems.
- First Aid at Sea or STCW certification.
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Adaptability and flexibility in a fast‑paced operational environment.
- A proactive and solutions-focused mindset.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Effective prioritisation and decision‑making skills.
- Resilience and accountability under pressure.
- Collaborative working and positive relationship‑building skills.
- Commitment to safety, professionalism and company values.
Manufacturing Vessel Operator/Driver Projects, Engineering, Manufacture employer: Sonardyne
At Sonardyne, we pride ourselves on being an innovative leader in marine technology, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and creativity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a culture that values diverse perspectives, ensuring that every team member can contribute meaningfully to our mission of making the oceans accessible. Located in a vibrant area with access to cutting-edge facilities, we provide a supportive atmosphere where safety and teamwork are paramount, making us an exceptional employer for those passionate about engineering and marine operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Vessel Operator/Driver Projects, Engineering, Manufacture
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Sonardyne's projects and values, especially their focus on innovation in marine technology. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Engaging with people who work at Sonardyne can give you insider tips and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since the role involves hands-on operations, brush up on your vessel handling and towing skills. Practising these tasks can give you the confidence to shine during any practical evaluations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Sonardyne and ready to contribute to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Vessel Operator/Driver Projects, Engineering, Manufacture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Innovation:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for innovation and technology. Share any experiences or projects that highlight your ability to think outside the box and tackle challenges head-on.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your experience with vessel operations, towing, and marine safety. We want to know how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the role, so don’t hold back on those specifics!
Be Detail-Oriented:Since attention to detail is crucial in this role, ensure your application is free from typos and errors. Use clear and concise language to demonstrate your organisational skills and commitment to quality.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sonardyne
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of marine operations and safety practices. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies and systems mentioned in the job description, like NMEA systems and 12V electronics. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your past experiences with towing trailers and launching vessels. Prepare specific examples that highlight your adaptability and problem-solving skills in challenging environments. This will help demonstrate that you can handle the hands-on nature of the job.
✨Safety First
Since safety is a big part of this role, be prepared to talk about how you prioritise safety in your work. Share any relevant certifications or training you've completed, like First Aid at Sea or STCW certification, and explain how you apply these principles in real-world situations.
✨Team Player Mindset
This position requires collaboration with various teams, so be ready to discuss how you work well with others. Think of examples where you've successfully contributed to a team project or helped resolve conflicts. Highlight your communication skills and your ability to build positive relationships.
