National Oceanography Centre
Chief Petty Officer (Science)
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Chief Petty Officer (Science)
Chief Petty Officer (Science) – Royal Research Ship (RRS) Discovery / RRS James Cook National Oceanography Centre, Southampton Permanent – Full-time Mariner
About the National Oceanography Centre (NOC)
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) – the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through cutting-edge research, collaboration, and innovation, we strive to deepen our understanding of the ocean, driving societal, environmental, and economic progress.
Our vibrant community tackles long-term marine challenges, underpinning international and UK policy, and empowering sustainable solutions. By placing ocean research at the heart of discovery, we unlock the potential of the ocean to address global challenges.
Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic science and bring your unique perspective to our organisation.
About the Role
The UK’s fleet of scientific research vessels deliver the oceanographic platforms critical to the UK’s worldwide research programme. Within the National Oceanography Centre’s Research Infrastructure Function, a collaborative hub shared with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the University of Southampton, NOC operates two flagship UKRI-owned research vessels and coordinates the UKRI/ Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Marine Facility Programme.
In this Chief Petty Officer (Science) role, you will:
- Report directly to the Chief Officer as the Head of the Deck Department onboard either Royal Research Ship (RRS) Discovery or RRS James Cook.
- Coordinate and oversee the delivery of marine scientific research on deck, including:
- Operation of scientific winches
- Deployment and recovery of scientific equipment and moorings
- Maintenance of overboard handling and lifting systems
- Lead wider Deck Operations as required, ensuring seamlessness between vessel responsibilities and scientific objectives.
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About You
Essential Qualifications & Certifications
Key requirements to apply:
- Hold a valid UK MCA AB (SG1A) Certificate (proof submitted with application)
- Possess a Navigation Watch Rating Certificate compliant with STCW 2010
- Valid MCA Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1) without restrictions or an MCA-recognised equivalent
- Complete four STCW 95 modules:
- First Aid
- Fire Fighting
- Personal Survival Techniques
- Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
- Valid STCW 95 Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats
- Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
- Valid UK passport or equivalent with demonstrable right to work (NOC does not sponsor UK employment)
- Valid MCA Discharge Book
- Hold a US C1/D Visa (or commit to securing it) with unrestricted global travel capability for ship deployment
Experience Requirements
While on-scene experience is preferred, we recognise equivalent skills:
- Mandatory: Senior-level experience working onboard a scientific research vessel or related field (e.g., OSV, PSV, ERRV). Demonstrate specialised knowledge in overboard handling and lifting equipment operations and maintenance.
- Consideration: Qualifications from comparable sectors (offshore, renewables, surveying). Relevant expertise will be evaluated transparently, and application narratives should highlight your technical competence, management ability, and versatility in executing operational tasks.
Working Conditions
- Seagoing Rotations typically extended for two scientific expeditions (minimum ~two months) staggered across a duty cycle, aligning with our operational programme.
- Leave Policy: 324 days annual leave accrued progressively at 27 days per month of ship deployment. Unused leave may be converted to cash as per NOC policy.
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Why Join the NOC?
We prioritise the wellbeing of our team with a suite of generous benefits:
- Pension Scheme with 10% employer contribution (up to 15% salary sacrifice, reducing NI liabilities)
- Death in Service payout (3x annual salary via Aviva) alongside mental, physical, and financial wellbeing services
- Eco-friendly incentives: Electric/hybrid vehicle salary sacrifices
- Employee Assistance Programme (free, confidential support for all lifestyle concerns)
- Flexible benefits portal (discounts, cashback, and vouchers)
- Cycle2Work Scheme allowing haste-free acquisition of bikes/accessories
- Living Wage Employer: Committed to ethical pay standards
Location
- Based on RRS Discovery or RRS James Cook, but with global operational fluidity.
- Homeported at NOC Southampton, meaning you’ll benefit from all University of Southampton campus resources and community access.
Application Guidance
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Mandatory coverage: Submit an updated CV + cover letter.
- Highlight dexterity with marine gear, practical experience, and passion for oceanographic science. Applications without cover letters will not be considered.
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Non-standard applications: Email careers@noc.ac.uk / +44 07955 851648.
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Uploads: Reference attached (Job description and person specification).
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Diversity: NOC pursues inclusion and equity without regard to gender, identity, age, disability, or religion (“includes” relationships across legal safeguards).
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Disability-ARO applies—qualified disabled applicants fulfilling criteria receive a guaranteed interview.
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Posting Date: 30 June 2026
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Vacancy Closing: 28 July 2026. Early closure possible if qualified applicants exceed demand.
Note: NOC refuses all unsolicited applications from agencies for this role.
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