Director of Engineering Science; Marine Technology

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• Job description and person specification (PDF, 153.23kb)

Southampton

Engineering Science

n/a

Permanent

£101,332 to £109,993

21/09/2026

NOC
12332

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton

Permanent

Full time (37 hours per week)

£101,332 to £109,993

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.

As the world faces increasingly complex environmental challenges, understanding the ocean has never been more important. At the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), our engineers, scientists and technical specialists work together to deliver the knowledge, technology and innovation needed to help society better understand our ocean and its impact on our planet.

As our new Director of Engineering Science, you'll play a vital role in shaping how we do that, both now, and for years to come.

This is an opportunity to join at an early stage of a significant transformation programme and help create the future of engineering science 'll lead a talented community of engineers, scientists and technical specialists, helping them thrive while shaping the capabilities, culture and approach that will enable us to deliver even greater impact.

While technical credibility is important, we’re also looking for someone who can bring people together around a shared vision, create clarity during times of change and help colleagues feel connected to the journey ahead.

You’ll work across NOC, building strong relationships with scientists, operational teams and leaders to drive innovation, improve how we work and ensure our engineering capability continues to support world-class science.

You’ll also play an important role in supporting NOC's long‑term sustainability and growth. As the organisation continues to diversify its funding and develop new partnerships, engineering science will be central to how we create value and deliver impact. Working alongside colleagues across science, innovation and business development, you’ll help strengthen relationships with industry, government, academia and other stakeholders, ensuring our engineering expertise enables new opportunities, accelerates innovation and supports the delivery of globally significant ocean science.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape both a function and an organisation at a pivotal moment. You’ll have the chance to influence strategy, challenge thinking, develop people and leave a lasting legacy on an organisation whose work matters globally.

You understand that lasting change happens when people feel involved, valued and inspired by a clear purpose. You bring energy, empathy and authenticity to your leadership, and you're able to create environments where people can do their best work.

You're someone who can see the bigger picture while remaining connected to the realities of engineering delivery and operational performance. You understand how to balance long‑term strategic objectives with the practical demands of running complex technical programmes, services and infrastructure. You enjoy bringing people together, building trust and finding practical ways to turn ambition into action.

You might already be leading a large engineering, technical, scientific or operational team. Equally, this could be your first move into a role of this scale.

You do not need to have held a Director-level position before. What matters most is your ability to lead people, navigate complexity and help teams succeed through change.

Most importantly, you're excited by the opportunity to contribute to something bigger than yourself and help shape the future of an organisation with a unique and globally important mission.

Studies show that women and people from underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet every requirement. We know that…