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

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.

The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.

Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.

About the role

We are looking for an Electrical/Electronics Engineer to join our experienced team of enthusiastic engineers who are developing and operating the ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) and Towed Underwater Systems. Additional work may include supporting and working with the Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV’s)

The Marine Autonomous and Robotic Systems (MARS) group at National Oceanography Centre develops, operates and maintains the UK’s marine science robotic fleet. The fleet consists of AUVs, subsea gliders, unmanned surface vehicles, ROV and Towed Underwater Vehicles. We operate our systems worldwide, deploying our research equipment in both the Arctic, Antarctic and the deep oceans in between. Our systems have surveyed, photographed and sampled the deep oceans around the world. The focus of the team’s work is to support the marine scientist community in its efforts to understand the deep ocean, and to monitor the associated resources.

The role will support the ISIS ROV and other deep towed equipment at sea, and maintain, service and upgrade the systems back at base. During sea-going operations, you will work with an experienced team and will be expected to fly and control the ROV to photograph and sample the deep oceans of the world. You will also troubleshoot and fix electrical/electronic problems as they arise. At times, you will be working under tight time constraints and arduous conditions, so a practical can-do attitude is essential.

Back at base, you will primarily work on servicing and developing the ROV and Towed Platforms equipment, but you may also be required to work on other Marine Autonomous Systems, as well as more broadly on the National Marine Facilities Sea Systems equipment.

In this position, we would expect the successful applicant to work approximately 90 days at sea.

Each day may attract an allowance amounting to approximately £13,000 per year at current rates.

About you

You will have completed an HNC/HND in a directly relevant electrical/electronic discipline or a degree in a related discipline with relevant experience.

You will be expected to make contributions throughout the lifecycle of a variety of projects from initial ideas and discussions through to generating specifications, design, implementation, testing and finally the operation of the systems at sea in support of the NERC marine science programme.

The work will require a good working knowledge of high voltage and 3 phase electrical systems with a sound understanding of analogue and digital electronics with experience of instrument integration. You will be expected to be able to read and understand circuit diagrams and diagnose electrical/electronic faults. You will also be expected to take the lead in development and enhancing the electrical systems on the ROV and deep towed equipment. Some experience in software development would also be beneficial.

You will have the opportunity to work with the Marine Autonomous & Robotic Systems (MARS) Development Teams to enhance the capabilities of the AUV/ROV and marine robotic systems more broadly.

As an Electrical/Electronics Engineer you should be highly motivated, able to use your own initiative, possess excellent oral and communication skills and be able to work both independently and as part of a small team.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

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. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.

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ROV Electrical/Electronics Engineer 2025

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