Survey Operations Manager - Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey in Plymouth

Survey Operations Manager – Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey

Location: The Marine Biological Association, Plymouth, PL1 2PB, UK

Hours: 37 hours per week (Full time)

All applicants must be available to work on-site; remote or hybrid arrangements are not available.

About the role: The Marine Biological Association (MBA) seeks a Survey Manager to lead the operational delivery of the Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey – the longest-running marine biological time series in the world. The role involves coordinating the deployment of CPR equipment aboard commercial and volunteer vessels, managing international logistics, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the survey across the UK, North America, and beyond. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a confident approach are essential.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate deployment of CPR equipment on commercial and volunteer vessels.
• Manage international logistics and ensure safe, efficient survey operations.
• Lead and support high‑performing teams and volunteer staff.
• Engage and train volunteers to maintain high standards and motivation.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Adapt to non‑standard hours and travel demands as required by international shipping schedules.

Qualifications

• Proven maritime knowledge and experience.
• Demonstrable marine engineering and sea deployment experience.
• Knowledge of maritime geography and the shipping sector.
• Strong logistical skills related to people, processes, ports, and cargo.
• Adaptive working style with flexibility to travel and work irregular hours.
• Experience fostering high‑performing teams.
• Experience engaging, training, and supporting volunteers.
• Commitment to health, safety and regulatory compliance, including knowledge of UK HSE regulations, PUWER, LOLER.
• Full UK driving licence and ability to travel internationally.
• Proven ability to positively engage diverse stakeholders from senior leadership to vessel crew and port teams.
• Health and safety certifications such as NEBOSH General Certificate or equivalent.
• Experience working in the charity sector.

How to Apply

Please email emailrecruitment@mba.ac.uk (quote the reference 1225SOMCPRS) and provide the following:

• A covering letter outlining your relevant experience and explaining why you are a good fit for this role.
• A CV detailing your education and employment history.
• Details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References will not be sought in advance.
• Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK (including date of birth if providing a share code). Applications lacking this information will not be considered.

*Visa sponsorship is not available for this position and is not available to non‑UK applicants.

For further information, please contact David Johns at djoh@MBA.ac.uk.

Interviews will take place onsite, week commencing 26/01/2026. Only candidates invited to interview will be notified.

Closing date: 18th January 2026.