Senior USV Operations Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Southampton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading marine technology company as a Senior USV Operations Engineer in Southampton. You'll lead safe navigation and operations of autonomous vessels, ensuring compliance with regulations. This role offers competitive salary and opportunities for growth in a pioneering environment focused on sustainable marine operations.

Benefits

Competitive salary and bonus structure

Company pension

Travel allowances

Ongoing training and progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience piloting autonomous or semi-autonomous vessels.
• Proficient with marine navigation software and digital charting.
• Certified in Offshore Survival (BOSIET/FOET) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assume command of USV missions ensuring safety and compliance.
• Oversee navigation and remote piloting of USVs.
• Develop and update passage plans based on marine conditions.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Leadership

Education

STCW Master 200 GT

GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Marine Navigation Software

Job description

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Senior USV Operations Engineer, southampton

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Client:

Subsea Xplorer

Location:

southampton, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

6

Posted:

12.05.2025

Expiry Date:

26.06.2025

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Job Description:

Job Description: Senior USV Operations Engineer

Location: Southampton, UK (Office & Field-Based)

Department: Marine Operations

Reports to: Marine Superintendent

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Eligibility: Must have right to work in the UK

About Us

At Subsea Xplorer, we’re transforming ocean data acquisition through cutting-edge Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) technology. We’re a young and ambitious company and we’re constantly exploring new frontiers, creating tremendous opportunities for those who join us early. This is more than a role — it’s a chance to grow with us and redefine your career. Our autonomous fleet delivers critical insights for offshore wind, seabed mapping, and environmental monitoring — all with minimal environmental impact. We are seeking an experienced USV Pilot / Master to lead safe and efficient navigation, remote operations, and system oversight of our USVs in line with regulatory and internal standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Assume full command of USV missions, with overriding authority on safety, risk mitigation, and environmental protection.
• Oversee live navigation and remote piloting of USVs during active missions, ensuring adherence to approved voyage plans and operational limits.
• Lead coordination of marine communications with internal teams and relevant third-party stakeholders (e.g., port authorities, clients).
• Maintain and audit digital and paper-based navigational records, logs, and compliance documentation.
• Develop and update passage plans, chart corrections, and route optimisation based on prevailing marine conditions.
• Monitor operational performance, system alerts, and onboard diagnostics; escalate or resolve issues in real time.
• Support mission setup including hardware testing, software updates, and system checks prior to launch.
• Contribute to safety culture by actively reviewing and improving Risk Assessments, Safe Systems of Work, and Emergency Response Plans.
• Participate in operational drills and training exercises; provide mentoring to junior team members.
• Assist in data quality validation and contribute to post-mission reports (training provided).

Health and Safety Compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with UK maritime regulations, MCA codes
• Carry out and document pre-deployment risk assessments.
• Promote a culture of proactive hazard reporting and operational discipline.
• Uphold environmental protection practices as core operational priorities.
• STCW Master 200 GT (Near Coastal or Unlimited) or equivalent recognised by the UK MCA.
• GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (GOC).
• Valid STCW (Manila-compliant) Basic Safety Training.
• Thorough knowledge of COLREGs and experience in navigational watchkeeping.
• Demonstrable experience piloting autonomous or semi-autonomous vessels (USV, AUV, ROV).
• Proficient with marine navigation software, digital charting, and satellite comms systems.
• High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and remote operations platforms.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Full clean UK driving licence.
• Prior experience in offshore survey or hydrography operations.
• Familiarity with remote data acquisition systems and quality control.
• Understanding of autonomous control systems and fleet management software.
• Basic programming or scripting experience (C++ code/QML) a plus.
• Certified in Offshore Survival (BOSIET/FOET), ECDIS, or DP Systems (desirable but not essential).

Why Join Us?

• Be at the forefront of marine autonomy and ocean science.
• Competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Company pension & travel allowances.
• Ongoing training and progression opportunities.
• Play a key role in pioneering sustainable marine operations.

To Apply

• Submit your CV and cover letter outlining your experience and interest in autonomous marine operations. Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

If you are passionate about marine technology and autonomous systems and thrive in an operational role, we invite you to apply and be part of our mission to unlock the mysteries of the ocean.

Join Subsea Xplorer and be part of a passionate and innovative team that is changing ocean data collection through cutting-edge USV technology!