Key responsibilities
- Work safely at all times in accordance with the MBA’s Health and Safety policies and the Vessel Management System
- Undertake marine operative duties to support safe operation of the vessel
- Maintain up to date knowledge of relevant regulations, including COLREGs and safe working practices
Vessel and Deck Operations
- Support safe deck operations for researchers, staff, visitors and volunteers
- Safely deploy and recover survey equipment (e.g. trawls, pots, grabs, nets)
- Assist with the deployment and recovery of ROVs, AVs, scientific instruments and equipment
- Assist with the deployment and recovery of divers
- Be competent in safe operation of deck winches
- Assist in vessel mobilisation and demobilisation (survey and other activities)
- Undertake watchkeeping duties as required
Maintenance and Engineering
- Assist the Skipper with maintenance of vessel engines and onboard systems including electronic, hydraulic and waste systems
- Maintain a working knowledge of engine room systems, machinery, and vessel start-up and shut-down procedures
- Support routine maintenance and repair of the vessel, survey equipment and fishing gear
Operational Support and Compliance
- Contribute to equipment inspections and the maintenance of registers e.g. COSHH and LOLER
- Ensure work areas are kept clean, safe and well organised (including decks, wheelhouse, galley, heads, holds, and stores)
- Support compliance with all relevant operational procedures and safety standards
Wider Operational Contribution
- Act as an engaged and responsible member of the MBA community, contributing to a positive and collaborative working culture
- Work flexibly across teams, particularly the Directorate of Operations to support research facilities, estates and engagement activities as required
- Provide practical support to non-vessel activities including aquarium systems and public engagement where needed
- Represent the MBA professionally when interacting with colleagues, researchers, partners and the public
- Contribute to the successful delivery of the organisation’s wider goals and continuous improvement
- Undertake ad hoc tasks and duties appropriate to the role and within the job holder’s capabilities
Essential experience/skills/qualifications:
- Minimum 1 year experience working on commercial vessels (e.g small workboats or fishing vessels) supporting deck operations
- Demonstrable knowledge of working to COLREGS and safe working practices at sea
- Current (or recently held) STCW 95 training including, Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting and First Aid
- Demonstrable knowledge and experience of diesel engine maintenance
- Experience of basic marine engineering tasks
- Physically fit with the ability to undertake manual handling and equipment deployment and to work at sea year round
- Hold a valid ENG1 or ML5 Medical Certificate
- Proven communication skills (written and verbal) with the ability to work successfully as part of a multi-disciplinary team
- Proven ability to problem solve and adapt in a dynamic operational environment
- High level of attention to detail
- Ability to work under pressure and respond to changing priorities
- Flexible approach to working with some non-fixed patterns and unsocial hours
- Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
Desirable experience/skills/qualifications:
- Commercially endorsed skippers qualifications (e.g. MCA or RYA recognised)
- Proven boat handling experience on commercial workboats or fishing vessels
- MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC) Part 1 or equivalent
- Experience maintaining fishing gear (e.g. trawls, pots and longlines)
- Working knowledge of LOLER and COSHH regulations
- Full UK driving license
- Experience with remotely operated vehicles or similar marine technology
- Experience with drone operations and flight procedures
- Experience in laboratory or aquarium environments
Salary: Grade 2 £25,750 per annum
Application deadline: June 24, 2026
