Lead Geospatial Specialist - Geodesy and PNT in Taunton

As part of the Scientific Analysis Group within the UKHO, the Geodesy team ensure that the UKHO’s navigational products are accurately positioned. The team provides geodetic expertise and support across the production flowline, from receipt of data to providing final checks before delivery. The team provides technical advice and support across MoD, other Government departments and the maritime community.

The purpose of this role, in conjunction with the Geodesy, Remote Sensing and Tides Team Manager, Principal Technical Specialists and other aligned Technical Leads, is to deliver innovation, change and technical solutions to the team’s problems and emerging business requirements.

Lead Geospatial Specialists are responsible for providing high level technical input and leadership; leading the team through change initiatives, finding and implementing technical solutions to problems experienced within the Team/Group, and ensuring the direction of the team is aligned to wider business direction and priorities.

There will be opportunities to work in a hybrid way, depending on individual needs and the needs of the team – this will be agreed in discussion with the Team Manager. In order to undertake the role effectively, this is likely to mean being able to attend the office in Taunton 1 to 2 days a week as a minimum – or more often as required to support the team or project activity.

• Geospatial data capture and modelling/ Geospatial data manipulation: As the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Geodetic and PNT (Position, Navigation & Timing) data processing, databasing, and archiving, drive the continuous improvement of UKHO's geodetic procedures, with reference to relevant IHO standards.
• Manage and coordinate the technical component of GNSS risk and impact on geodetic and PNT data collection.
• Provide technical advice to Data Stewards with regards to geodetic data – including guidance on developing data strategy, supporting data management, and adapting to future industry needs.

• Geospatial data standards and quality: Lead the design and oversee the processes which provide the analysis and processing of incoming complex geodetic datasets within agreed timeframes and schedules. The writing of verification reports and the promulgation of verified data to the other systems that require it.

• Geospatial software and systems: Build/maintain relationships with equipment/software manufacturers and survey contractors in order to consult on the best formats, systems, and practices. Ensure use of geodetic data and technology aligns with current best available practice throughout UKHO systems and processes.
• As PNT SME, keep up to date with emerging risks around weaknesses in GNSS and the impact on UKHO products and services, engaging with UKHO internal stakeholders.

• Capability Building: Role model the behaviours and sharing of expertise expected of a Lead Specialist and provide ongoing technical mentoring for those developing along the technical pathway.
• Advise on best practice for survey collection for Hydrographic Programmes, Defence Hydrographic Programmes and Royal Navy survey teams.
• Deliver or advise on the delivery of specialist geodetic training for UKHO staff, at all levels and provide training to overseas organisations to support External Engagement objectives, when required.
• Act as the UKHO representative as an influential member of multiple working groups, including those with influence on Government policy, for Geodesy & Position, Navigation and Timing such as the Maritime Interference Group, Royal Institute of Navigation PNT Working Group and the UK PNT Office Community of Practice.
• Build / maintain close working relationships with relevant external stakeholders and Government bodies such as DSIT, Ordnance Survey, Royal Institute of Navigation and the UK National PNT Office. Ensure the UKHO and the mariner is considered in future best practice.

• Geospatial Strategy and Architecture: Lead or provide consultancy for technical projects/change initiatives relating to Geodesy and Position, Navigation & Timing and adjacent activity. Advise on appropriate developing technologies to be embedded in UKHO. The postholder will be expected to bring new/novel perspectives based on their own research and engagement with Industry.
• Provide expert advice to UKHO initiatives and projects to ensure that geodetic and PNT is handled adequately within them.

This specialist technical leadership role demands a high level of technical expertise, currency and credibility. For the Geodesy and PNT domain, we are seeking candidates who can demonstrate expertise with geodetic and PNT processing systems, and application of these systems to processing hydrographic data, along with sound technical knowledge of the team’s processes, the end products produced, including the ability to identify inaccuracies in GNSS data and more broadly identify risk in PNT systems.

You will be committed to identifying and delivering change activities which lead to team efficiency, accuracy, and high-quality products and services to the customer. You will have demonstrable experience in communicating and influencing with a wide variety of audiences and they will need to help lead through change.

As a technical coach and mentor, you will need to be capable of developing colleagues, enabling them to broaden their technical knowledge, skills and behaviours.