At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and operate scientific machinery on the RRS Sir David Attenborough during Antarctic expeditions.
- Company: Join the British Antarctic Survey, a leader in polar research and exploration.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension scheme, and all expenses covered during deployment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and training in a unique and dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking scientific research while exploring the stunning Antarctic environment.
- Qualifications: Engineering qualification and relevant maritime experience required; passion for science is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 66034 - 66034 £ per year.
Position: Deck Engineer
Location: RRS Sir David Attenborough
Salary: £66,034 per annum (pro rata)
Closing date: 12 July 2026
Background & Overview
Responsible to: Polar Chief Engineer, Polar Master, Polar Marine Engineering (POME).
Reporting officer: Polar Chief Engineer.
Works closely with: Polar Chief Engineer, Polar Master, Polar Marine Engineering (POME), Chief Officer, ETO, CPO Science, Principal Scientific Officer & Scientific Technicians.
Benefits
- Generous benefit pension scheme
- Comprehensive sick pay coverage
- During Antarctic deployment all food, accommodation and polar clothing are provided
- Employer discount scheme on a range of travel gifts and leisure
- Support for further tickets/training courses
Purpose
To be responsible for the maintenance and functionality of the ship’s fixed scientific machinery, ship’s cranes, cargo tender and workboat machinery, fully utilising the Planned Maintenance System. To assist with the mobilisation and demobilisation of Scientific Equipment during each Cruise. To provide guidance on science cruise planning via Polar Marine Engineering. To assist in the deployment and recovery of scientific instruments and use their best endeavours to ensure the success of scientific cruises.
Duties
- To liaise with the Polar Chief Engineer, Chief Officer and Principal Scientific Officer to best ensure the correct operation and availability of the ship's fixed scientific machinery including traction winches, gantries, towing platforms, scientific hydraulic power packs, uncontaminated seawater system, and portable equipment stored ashore including Seismic Air compressors, mooring winch and reeler winch.
- To liaise with the Polar Chief Engineer, Chief Officer, Deck Staff, Principal Scientific Officer and Science Staff for mobilisation of portable scientific equipment including Seismic Air Compressors, Streamers, ROVs, Coring Equipment, Nets, Grabs, Drills, etc.
- To work closely with the CPO Science (Science Bosun) and Deck Crew involved, to ensure the safe operation of Ship’s Winches, Gantries and Cranes.
- Assisting with the integration of portable scientific equipment with ship’s systems.
- To maintain Ship’s cranes and operate where required.
- To be responsible, under the Polar Chief Engineer, for the upkeep and safe usage of the Deck & Rough Workshops, their machine tools and equipment.
- To operate, maintain and repair other equipment as required by the Polar Chief Engineer including the Deck Cranes and Workboat & Tender Davits/Gantries.
- To manage, operate and execute the planned maintenance system for equipment and machinery for which they are responsible, and maintain the PMS records accordingly.
- To maintain and assist in the operation of the Cargo Tender and Workboat machinery and boat davits (liaise Launchman).
- To assist in Engineer and ETO cadet training to provide them with the broadest possible experience.
- To ensure that the ship is properly equipped with scientific machinery spares and stores prior to any planned cruise and to arrange for replenishment utilising the onboard procurement system.
- To ensure that the Winterisation procedures are implemented when advised by the Polar Chief Engineer, and maintained in an environmentally considerate manner.
- To attend Cruise Planning Meetings as required.
- To undertake any other duties consistent with the key responsibilities and duties of the post, as directed by the Master.
Skills, Qualifications and Experience – Essential
- Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1) without restrictions
- STCW basic training to STCW 2010 (PST, FPFF, EFA, & PSSR)
- Appropriate engineering qualification (HND or higher)
- Strong awareness of health, safety, security, and environmental issues
- Demonstrate relevant experience, backed by evidence of significant appropriate specialist knowledge
- Comprehensive and current knowledge of maritime legislation related to the role
- Experience of PC based Vessel Management System for operating machinery
- Experience of hydraulic systems including cranes, platforms and lifts
- Experience of plant and machinery, including forklifts and telehandlers
- Experience of electronic Planned Maintenance Systems, using the Condition Based Maintenance principle, and ability to write preventative maintenance programs
- Knowledge of crane and gantry LOLER inspections
- Experience and understanding of Permit to Work Systems
- Strong understanding of the operation of open and closed loop hydraulic systems
- Ability to plan proactively; develop innovative concepts, solutions and ideas
- To have a high level of competence in operating and maintaining computer-based control and monitoring systems to maintain availability
- Strong and independent problem-solving abilities and task prioritisation
- Good hydraulic system fault finding
- Ability to establish professional working relationships with Ships Staff, Science Staff, and shoreside personnel
- Proactive in an environment of change
- Taking pride in managing the delivery of a reliable platform for scientific research
- Excellent time management skills and prioritisation in situations of conflicting demands
- Confident and articulate written and oral communication skills at all levels
- Broad IT skills
Desirable
- STCW Proficiency in Medical First Aid
- Industry accepted crane operators certificate
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats
- STCW Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
- Hydraulic Hose Inspection, Assembly and Testing qualification
- High Risk Enclosed Space Training
- Experience of Vessel operations in Polar Regions
- Experience of marine science operations
- Experience of Variable Frequency Drives
- Experience of high speed diesel engines and systems as fitted to cargo tender/workboat
- Mentoring and training skills to develop team dynamics and competencies
Other Requirements
- To obtain medical clearance for Polar service from BAS Medical Unit (BASMU).
- Security Screening: The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
Deck Engineer employer: UK Research and Innovation
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work as a Deck Engineer aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough in one of the most extraordinary environments on Earth. With a strong commitment to employee development, BAS provides comprehensive training support, generous benefits including accommodation and food during deployments, and a collaborative work culture that values safety and innovation. Join us to contribute to groundbreaking scientific research while enjoying a rewarding career in a supportive and dynamic team.
Contact Details:
UK Research and Innovation Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land Deck Engineer
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We think you need these skills to ace Deck Engineer
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