Marine Operative

About the Marine Biological Association

The Marine Biological Association (MBA) is a world-leading marine research organisation — the home of marine biology — with members in over 50 countries. As a charity, we are dedicated to advancing the understanding of life in our ocean.

The Role

This is a hands-on practical role supporting the effective delivery of the MBA's operational activities. As part of a multiskilled Directorate, you will contribute to the day-to-day running, maintenance and development of the MBA's varied operations. The role focuses on providing practical support in vessel and mechanical operations including seagoing and marine engineering tasks to ensure safe and efficient marine operations. This is a dynamic and varied position that will also work flexibly across a range of activities from aquarium systems and animal husbandry to estates and engagement support.

Reporting to: Research Vessel Skipper and Manager. Salary: Grade 2, £25,750 per annum (subject to UCEA pay uplift from 1 August 2026). Hours: 37 hours per week, open-ended full-time contract.

Key Responsibilities

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.
• Support compliance with all relevant operational procedures and safety standards.

Wider Operational Contribution

• 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.

Essential Requirements

• 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.
• Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check required.

Desirable

• Commercially endorsed skippers qualifications (e.g. MCA or RYA recognised).
• MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC) Part 1 or equivalent.
• Experience maintaining fishing gear (e.g. trawls, pots and longlines).
• Full UK driving licence.
• Experience with remotely operated vehicles or similar marine technology.
• Experience with drone operations and flight procedures.
• Experience in laboratory or aquarium environments.

Salary and Benefits

• £25,750 per annum (Grade 2, subject to UCEA pay uplift from 1 August 2026).
• 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays plus 3 Privilege Days.
• Pension scheme – MBA contributes 10% of basic salary; MBA will match additional employee contributions up to 5%.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Cycle to Work scheme.

How to Apply

Please email recruitment@mba.ac.uk quoting reference 0626MOSM, providing: a letter of application, an up-to-date CV, and your right to live and work in the UK status. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

For further information, contact Sean McTierney at seamct@mba.ac.uk. More information: https://mymba.mba.ac.uk/job/marine-operative.html

Closing date: 24 June 2026. Interviews: 7–8 July 2026.