Vacancy: Survey Operations Manager
Contract type Open Ended
Closing date 18 Jan 2026 11:59 PM
Location Plymouth, UK
Salary Grade 5 SP37 £47,389 to SP40 £51,753 depending on experience
Hours 37 hours per week
Are you an experienced maritime professional looking for a role with real-world impact? The Marine Biological Association (MBA) is seeking a Survey Manager to lead the operational delivery of the Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey—the longest-running marine biological time series in the world. This is more than a job. It is a chance to help safeguard a globally significant scientific legacy that informs our understanding of ocean health, biodiversity, and climate change.
The role
As Survey Manager, you will be at the helm of a complex and dynamic operation. You will coordinate the deployment of CPR equipment aboard commercial and volunteer vessels, manage international logistics, and ensure the safe and efficient running of the survey across the UK, North America, and beyond. You will work with everyone from ship captains and engineers to dockside handlers and scientific staff—so strong communication skills and a confident, adaptable approach are essential.
The requirements of this role necessitate the job holder being on-site: remote or hybrid working is not available.
What we are looking for
We are looking for someone with a professional maritime background who understands the complexities of marine engineering and operations and the importance of precision, safety, and teamwork.
You will need:
- Proven maritime experience, ideally with knowledge of towing operations and marine engineering
- The ability to engage confidently and positively with a wide range of people, from CEOs to port operators
- Strong organisational and logistics skills, with experience managing complex operations
- A flexible, can-do attitude and willingness to work unusual hours and travel internationally
- Experience in managing and training high performing teams, including volunteers
- A UK driving licence and ability to travel internationally as required
Why this role matters
The CPR Survey has been running continuously since 1931. It is a cornerstone of global marine science, and your work will help ensure it continues to deliver vital data for decades to come. You will be part of a passionate, mission-driven team, working at the intersection of science, operations, and environmental stewardship.
Salary and benefits
- Salary based on experience
- 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
- 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week)
- Sick pay
- 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%
- Cycle to work scheme
Equal Opportunities
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to enhance all that we do.
How to apply
Please email recruitment@mba.ac.uk quoting reference 1225SMCPRS. You will need to provide three things to apply:
- Covering letter that outlines your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role.
- CV of education and employment history.
- Details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References will not be sought in advance.
- Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK*. If providing a share code, please also include your date of birth. Your application will not be considered without this information.
* Visa sponsorship is not available for this position and is not available to non-UK applicants for this position.
For further information, please contact David Johns djoh@MBA.ac.uk
Interviews will take place onsite week commencing 26/01/2026. Only those invited to interview will be notified.