The MBA (Marine Biological Association) has owned Research Vessels (RVs) since 1896 and currently operates two RVs; MBA Sepia, a 15.45 m a Category 2 coded workboat and MBA Laminaria, a 5.8 m Category 4 coded RIB. Both vessels operate locally out of Plymouth, principally supporting MBA’s research activities.
In addition, we are increasingly working with a range of external organizations from research, education, and commercial sectors. Working within the RVs team is an exciting and challenging role, and we are looking to appoint a motivated Sea-going Survey Technician (SST) to support the MBA’s operations at sea.
This is a hands-on practical role and would suit individuals with some previous sea-going experience and technical knowledge of marine survey equipment, with the ability to problem solve within a fast-paced environment. The SST will work under direction of the RVs Manager, providing technical survey support aboard the vessels, taking responsibility for organizing and maintaining survey equipment, whilst providing a high level of customer service before, during, and after surveys. On sea-going days, the role will contribute to; mobilization and demobilization of vessels and equipment, operation of hydraulic and electric deck winches, preparation and safe deployment/recovery of a range of scientific sampling equipment (e.g. CTD, niskin bottles, benthic grabs, plankton nets, scientific trawls and dredges), ensuring the vessel is clean, tidy and ready for travel, supporting the work of scientists and students whilst on board, and maintaining a professional, safe and tidy working environment. Working ashore, the SST will clean, service and stow away all equipment, coordinate calibration and maintenance schedules for instrumentation and equipment, carry out basic service and repairs to equipment, review/update Standard Operating Procedures documentation for equipment, liaise between researchers and the RVs team on sampling requirements, enter survey log data, as needed, and contribute to COSHH, LOLER and stores inventories.
Salary and benefits
- Salary based on experience
- 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro-rata)
- 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week)
- Pension scheme – the MBA will contribute 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff making a 3% minimum contribution. The MBA will match additional employee contributions up to an additional 5%.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- Subsidized on site canteen with free tea and coffee
- 20-minute paid morning break
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electronic vehicle lease scheme
- Low-cost bookable parking on site
Applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK
Closing Date: March 18, 2024
