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Second Officer x 2
Southampton, UK
GBP 50,114+ / year
Posted on Jul 3, 2026
Second Officer x 2
Second Officer II/1 or above
National Oceanography Centre, RRS Discovery / RRS James Cook
Permanent
Full time - Mariner
From £50,114
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.
We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.
The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.
Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.
About the role
The UK's Fleet of Scientific Research Vessels provide the ocean-going scientific platforms to support the UK’s worldwide oceanographic research programme. The Research Infrastructure Function, a constituent part of the NOC forms part of the collaborative centre shared with NOC, United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the University of Southampton.
NOC is responsible for the operation and management of two UKRI owned research vessels as well as providing wider support in the co-ordination and management of the UKRI / Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Marine Facility Programme (oceanographic research science).
The successful candidate will be one of 3 Bridge Watchkeeping Officers working on either the Royal Research Ship (RRS) DISCOVERY or RRS JAMES COOK. They will report to the Captain and Chief Officer and their primary function will be in ensuring the safe navigation of the ship and oversight of all shipboard operations when in charge of the ship, including the delivery of scientific research operations and the routine operation and functioning of the ship. In addition, they will have responsibility for the general navigation of the ship as the designated Navigating Officer and act as the ship's Medical Officer in addition to other ancillary duties.
About you
For this position, it is essential that you hold the following:
- OOW (Deck) STCW II/1 Certificate of Competence issued by UK MCA or UK MCA recognised equivalent i.e. CEC (proof required on application);
- MCA Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1) without restrictions or an MCA recognized equivalent (proof required on application);
- Five elements of basic training to STCW 95;
- STCW95 Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats;
- Proficiency in Designated Security Duties;
- Valid UK passport or valid passport and a demonstratable right to work in the UK. Please note, NOC is not in position to sponsor an individual's right to work in the UK;
- A valid Discharge Book;
- Be in possession of a US C1/D Visa (or be able to obtain one) and have the ability to undertake unrestricted worldwide travel.
- Be fully computer literate and articulate in the English Language (written and spoken).
It is desirable (but not essential) that you should hold a Chief Mate STCW II/1 UK CoC or MCA recognised equivalent i.e. CEC and be able to demonstrate relevant experience of working onboard a scientific research vessel or work in a similar marine sector (i.e. OSV, PSV, ERRV, DSV, etc) during a cadetship or since award of you CoC, backed by evidence of appropriate specialist knowledge and experience in the operation and maintenance of overboard handling and lifting equipment.
Hours of Work:
Seagoing tours of duty will normally encompass at least two full scientific expeditions, or a minimum of two months although these tour periods may vary depending on the ship's operational programme. Leave is earnt at the annual rate of 324 days for each year served onboard and accrues at the rate of 27 days for each calendar month of service onboard. Unused leave can be liquidated in accordance with NOC policy.
Why the NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 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
- 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
- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
Location
This position will be based onboard one of the two Royal Research Ship (RRS Discovery or RRS James Cook ) operated by NOC. The ships operate world-wide but are based ported at NOC Southampton.
Submitting an application
Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07355 676794.
Before submitting your application, please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.
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.
Date advert posted: 3 July 2026.
Closing date: 17 July 2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.