ROV Engineering Manager in Southampton

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 innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.

About the role

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced engineer to join the MARS group as Engineering Manager for the ROV Team. The Marine Autonomous and Robotic Systems (MARS) group operates and maintains an extensive fleet of autonomous and robotic maritime platforms, including the UK's National Marine Equipment Pool (NMEP) – the largest centralised marine scientific equipment pool in Europe.

You will lead a close‑knit, dedicated, and enthusiastic multidisciplinary team operating our 6,500m‑rated ROV, Isis, and our Modular Payload Underwater System (MPUS). This role offers an exciting opportunity to advance a key capability and lead operations at the forefront of marine science. You will oversee the collection of high‑quality ocean data that underpins the NOC and the wider UK oceanographic community, achieving world‑class marine science. The work you lead, together with a skilled and dedicated team, will make a significant and lasting contribution to ocean science.

Responsibilities

• Managing delivery of the operational, technical and safety aspects of NOC’s ROV deployments.
• Creating and monitoring work plans, defining priorities, carrying out financial planning and budget management to ensure activities are planned and delivered safely, in line with standards, safety requirements and legislation.
• Providing technical oversight of development, integration and troubleshooting of systems and upgrades for the ROVs, ensuring all equipment is maintained in preparation for research expeditions, and updating standard operating and emergency procedures.
• Producing and reviewing technical solutions and guiding the team in solving complex technical problems.
• Providing mentoring, guidance and objectives for the team.
• Engaging with MARS, NOC and science stakeholders to deliver effective ROV operations consistent with NOC protocols and best practice.
• Providing seagoing operational leadership and support of the ROVs and other assets as required, including planning and coordinating missions, managing risks and overseeing all operational aspects whilst deployed.
• Working with other MARS senior team members to support group operation and help define the strategic objectives for MARS.
• Time aboard research vessels will be required to support delivery of this capability.

About you

• Qualified to HNC/HND or higher in a directly relevant engineering discipline or degree level or higher in a related discipline.
• Significant relevant experience in leading engineering design and development, conducting trials and/or operational deployments of complex systems (preferably marine), and providing expert technical advice in complex, multidisciplinary project environments.
• In‑depth knowledge of deep‑sea science, engineering and technology, preferably with considerable experience in operating ROV systems.
• Broad engineering knowledge with a basic understanding of physics, mechanical engineering, electronics, electrical systems, and software development.
• Proven track record of team leadership and successful project management, including good interpersonal skills and the ability to lead and motivate a small, highly‑skilled team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through documentation produced and presentations given.
• Experience liaising with potential funders, project partners and stakeholders.
• Self‑motivated, proactive, flexible and innovative with the ability to resolve issues under challenging situations at sea, and to produce high‑quality reliable work at base.

Why NOC?

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays.
• A 10% employer contribution pension scheme.
• 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 will be based in Southampton. The centre 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 NOC has a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week.

We can support visa applications where required and may offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.

Equal Opportunity

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 and 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.