Who are we?
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.
About the role
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 at NOC. You'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.
About you
You understand that lasting change happens when people feel involved, valued and inspired by a clear purpose. You bring 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.
We'd love to hear from you
Studies show that women and people from underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet every requirement. We know that talent comes in many forms and that great leaders often have experiences that don't fit a traditional career path.
So, if you're excited by this opportunity, but you're not sure you tick every box, we'd still encourage you to apply.
We're particularly interested in hearing from people who bring fresh perspectives and different experiences. You may come from engineering, technology, defence, digital transformation, research, operations, or another sector entirely.
If you have experience leading people, building high-performing teams, driving change and inspiring others through uncertainty, we'd love to hear your story.
Why NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- A 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)
- Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment, plus access to a range of other Aviva wellbeing services
- Financial support for relocation
- A salary sacrifice scheme for electric / hybrid vehicles (qualifying period applies)
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
- Access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
- A Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
- A great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
- We are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
Location
This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.
We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.
Submitting an application
Please click the ‘Apply’ button above and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience (referencing the attached job description and person specification) and why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk.
If you would like an informal conversation about the position before applying, please contact:
Dan Zeff (Recruitment and Talent Manager): 07955 851648 / dan.zeff@noc.ac.uk.
Megan De Silva (Recruitment and Talent Business Partner): 07355 676794 / megan.desilva@noc.ac.uk.
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.
Those seeking employment at NOC are 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 (including pregnancy / maternity leave) 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.
Closing date: 21 September 2026.