ROV Engineering Manager

Job Summary

Engineering Manager for the ROV Team within the Marine Autonomous and Robotics (MARS) group, responsible for leading a multidisciplinary team operating the 6,500m-rated ROV, Isis, and the Modular Payload Underwater System (MPUS).

• Manage delivery of the operational, technical and safety aspects of NOC’s ROV deployments.
• Create and monitor work plans, define priorities, carry out financial planning and budget management, ensuring all activities are planned and delivered safely in line with standards, safety requirements and legislation.
• Provide technical oversight of development, integration and troubleshooting of systems and upgrades for the ROVs, ensuring equipment is maintained in preparation for research expeditions; develop, use and update standard operating procedures and emergency procedures.
• Produce and/or review technical solutions and guide the team in solving complex technical problems.
• Provide mentoring, guidance and objectives for the team.
• Engage with MARS, NOC and science stakeholders to deliver effective ROV operations consistent with NOC protocols and best practice.
• Provide seagoing operational leadership and support of the ROVs (and other assets as required), including planning and coordinating missions, managing risks and overseeing all operational aspects while deployed.
• Work with other MARS senior team members to support group operation and help define MARS strategic objectives.

• HNC/HND or higher in a directly relevant engineering discipline or a higher degree in a related discipline.
• Significant experience in leading engineering design and development, conducting trials and/or operational deployments of complex systems, preferably marine; expert technical advice in multidisciplinary project environments.
• In-depth knowledge of deep‑ocean science, engineering and technology, with considerable experience operating ROV systems.
• Broad engineering knowledge, including physics, mechanical engineering, electronics, electrical systems and software development.
• Proven track record of team leadership and successful project management; strong interpersonal skills to lead and motivate a small, highly skilled team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through documentation and presentations.
• Experience liaising with funders, project partners and stakeholders.
• Self‑motivated, proactive, flexible and innovative, able to resolve issues under challenging sea‑based and base‑operations situations.

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays.
• 10% employer contribution pension scheme.
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme offering free, anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues.
• Access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and gift cards.
• Cycle2
  
  Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories.
• Social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations.
• Living Wage Employer.

The position is based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and offers ample cycle parking, free onsite car‑parking with over 40 EV charging points. NOC offers a hybrid working approach, allowing staff to work from home up to two days per week.

We can support visa applications where required and offer financial support for relocation.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Candidates will be 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 or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.