Bathymetry Technical Lead

• This is an exciting time to join the UK Hydrographic Office as we shape or digital future and develop new and innovative ways to support all of our customers in our Navigation market.
• UKHO is developing the next generation of bathymetric data handling capability moving from manual processing to utilising the latest tools and technologies to benefit the customer by improving timeliness, quality, and data interoperability.
• As an Operations Subject Matter Expert (SME) for bathymetric data acquisition, processing, and data-basing, the purpose of this role is:
• To provide advice and make key decisions on the collection and handling of bathymetric data, both internally and externally.
• To initiate and deliver the development of hydrographic survey and bathymetry expertise within the Scientific Analysis Group and wider UKHO.
• To support research and innovation, including writing UKHO hydrographic policy and procedures.
• To act as the Bathymetry Data Steward in accordance with the Scientific Analysis Group data governance responsibilities
• To support survey activities both internally and in the field as required e.g., supporting HP survey work. 

Due to the nature of the work of the team, and the level of customer engagement and support provided to colleagues, on average 2 to 3 days a week working in the Taunton office would be the norm, although this can fluctuate depending on work in hand. This role is deployable internationally in support of our Hydrographic Survey Programme, which may include time on operational survey vessels.

• As Operations Subject Matter Expert (SME) for bathymetric data acquisition, processing and data-basing, the postholder will seek continuous improvement of UKHO's bathymetry deliverables and processing procedures.
• Liaise with equipment/software manufacturers and survey contractors on the best formats, systems, and practices. Ensure use of bathymetric data and technology aligns with current best available practice throughout UKHO systems and processes
• Develop, coach and mentor Bathymetry staff in development posts and those with survey experience/qualifications. Facilitate field visits to survey vessels, internal training and external education as required.
• Lead the design and oversee the processes which provide the analysis and processing of incoming complex bathymetric datasets, the writing of verification reports and the promulgation of verified data to the other systems that require it.
• Support and lead technical projects relating to Bathymetry. Provide processes for developing technologies to be embedded in UKHO, E.g., Ping 2 ECDIS, Satellite Derived Bathymetry, Lidar, Crowdsource bathymetry.
• Support and train UKHO staff, at all levels, on bathymetric and hydrographic survey matters. Provide hydrographic survey training to overseas organisations to support External Engagement objectives, when required.
• Represent UKHO externally at conferences and meetings. Promote the work of the Scientific Analysis Group and the UKHO as a leading supplier of maritime scientific data and expertise.
• Provide expert advice to UKHO initiatives and projects to ensure that bathymetry is handled adequately within them e.g., VORF, HDB
• Support the provision of technical advice & training to Defence customers on matters of bathymetric data acquisition & processing in accordance with the Service Definition Annex (SDA).
• In collaboration with the Survey Delivery Team, support the delivery of UKHO survey activities when required. Examples of this work may include acting as charge surveyor, inputting to UKHO survey specifications, assessing tenders for contracts and acting as client representative on surveys.
• Fulfil Data Steward responsibilities for Bathymetry and assist the Principal Technical Specialist – Bathymetry with developing the bathymetry data strategy, supporting data management, and adapting to future industry needs.
• The post holder adapts their terminology to support knowledge sharing to both technical and non-technical staff. They may be required to present to colleagues outside of the scientific remit, or with non-technical knowledge, and it is their responsibility to ensure all parties understand the content, as appropriate.

This specialist technical leadership role demands a high level of technical expertise, currency and credibility. The post holder will have demonstrable experience in communicating with and influencing a wide variety of audiences, both nationally and internationally, whilst also able to coach, mentor and develop colleagues internally, to enable them to broaden their knowledge and skills. 

To this end, we are seeking candidates with: 

• A degree level hydrographic surveying qualification from an FIG/IHO/ICA Category A accredited course, or IFHS HPAS Level 1 (or higher) accreditation.
• Significant (at least 3+ years) relevant hydrographic survey experience. Including significant experience of acoustic swathe surveying and associated survey equipment (e.g., positioning and motion sensor equipment).
• Expert knowledge of bathymetric data processing, data formats and deliverables.
• High level of IT literacy, including Caris HIPS/SIPS.
• Experience of dealing with and solving issues in problematic datasets.
• Experience of planning hydrographic surveys.
• Willingness to travel abroad and spend time at sea.

At the UK Hydrographic Office, it's very important to us that our people feel valued.   We offer a huge range of benefits such as training and development, well-being support, flexible/ homeworking, a fantastic state of the art building, high spec equipment, and so much more.   See our attached Candidate Information Pack for more details

Please submit your application through Civil Service Jobs. You will be short-listed against set criteria.

Please read all criteria in detail and tailor your application to these requirements.