Able Seafarer Deck x 5

National Oceanography Centre; Southampton; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support

Pension scheme

Death in Service

Cycle2Work

Flexible benefits

Living Wage Employer

Job summary

National Oceanography Centre Southampton is seeking a seafaring professional to join the Research Ships Operations team. The role supports scientific missions onboard the UKRI vessels and assists with daily ship operations under the guidance of the Chief Officer and Deck team.

Ideal candidates hold SG1A, Navigational Watch and ENG1, STCW95, and Seaman's Discharge Book. UK right to work is required; travel worldwide is expected.

Qualifications

• Able Seafarer Grade 1A (SG1A) certificate and proficiency.
• Navigational Watch Rating and ENG1 medical certificates.
• STCW 95 training with Survival Craft and Rescue Boats.
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties.
• Right to work in the UK and Seaman's Discharge Book.
• US C1/D Visa eligibility.

Responsibilities

• Assist with delivery of scientific research operations onboard.
• Support routine operation and functioning of the ship.
• Report to the Chief Officer and Chief Petty Officer (Deck).

Skills

Able Seafarer SG1A

Navigational Watch Certificate

MCA ENG1 Medical

STCW95 Training

Survival Craft & Rescue Boats

Security Duties

UK Right to Work

Seaman's Discharge Book

US C1/D Visa Eligibility

Job description

Location

Southampton

Function

Research Infrastructure

Group

Research Ships Operations

Salary

£38,008

Closing Date

19/11/2026

Job Reference

NOC12386

Documents

• Job Description and Person Specification (PDF, 180.27kb)

Contract Type

Permanent

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton / Royal Research Ship

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton / Royal Research Ship

Who are we?

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK's centre of excellence for oceanographic sciences. We are a national research organisation, delivering integrated marine science and technology from the coast to the deep ocean.

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community whose focus is on improving the world in which we live. Our work is balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one NOC’ approach.

We have a rich history dating back to 1949, and our future has never looked more exciting as we aim to be the world’s most innovative oceanographic institution.

About The Role

The UK's Fleet of Scientific Research Vessels provide the ocean-going scientific platforms to support the UK’s worldwide oceanographic research programme. Research Infrastructure (RI) is part of the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), Southampton, a collaborative centre shared by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI), NOC and the University of Southampton.

NMF is responsible for the operation and management of two UKRI owned research vessels as well as providing wider support in the co-ordination and management of the UKRI / Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Marine Facility Programme.

The successful candidate will be one of 3 SG1As working on either the Royal Research Ship (RRS) DISCOVERY or RRS JAMES COOK. They will report to the Chief Officer and Chief Petty Officer (Deck) and their primary function will be to assist with the delivery of scientific research operations onboard and the routine operation and functioning of the ship.

About You

• Able Seafarer Grade 1A (SG1A) Certificate of Proficiency issued by UK MCA or UK MCA recognised equivalent (proof required on application);
• Navigational Watch Rating Certificate issued in compliance with STCW 2010.
• MCA Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1) without restrictions or a MCA recognised equivalent (proof required on application).
• Five elements of basic training to STCW 95.
• STCW95 Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats.
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties.
• Valid UK passport or valid passport and a demonstratable right to work in the UK. Please note, NOC is not in position to sponsor an individual's right to work in the UK;
• A valid Seaman's Discharge Book;
• Be in possession of a US C1/D Visa (or be able to obtain one) and have the ability to undertake unrestricted worldwide travel.

It is highly desirable that you should be able to demonstrate relevant experience of working onboard a scientific research vessel or work in a similar marine sector (i.e. OSV, PSV, ERRV, DSV, etc), backed by evidence of appropriate specialist knowledge and experience in the operation and maintenance of complex overboard handling and lifting equipment.

Hours Of Work

Seagoing tours of duty will normally encompass at least two full scientific expeditions, or a minimum of two months although these tour periods may vary depending on the ship's operational programme. Leave is earnt at the rate of 27 days for each calendar month of service onboard.

Why the NOC?

We Offer a Generous Set Of Benefits, Including

• a 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)
• Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment, plus access to a range of other Aviva wellbeing services
• financial support for relocation
• a salary sacrifice scheme for electric / hybrid vehicles (qualifying period applies)
• access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential 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

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 / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.