Lead Geospatial Specialist - Geodesy and PNT

As part of the Scientific Analysis Group within the UKHO, the Geodesy team ensure that the UKHO’s navigational products are accurately positioned. The team provide geodetic expertise and support across the production flowline, from receipt of data to providing final checks before delivery. The team provides technical advice and support across MoD, other Government departments and the maritime community. 

The purpose of this role, in conjunction with the Geodesy, Remote Sensing and Tides Team Manager, Principal Technical Specialists and other aligned Technical Leads, is to deliver innovation, change and technical solutions to the team’s problems and emerging business requirements. 

Lead Geospatial Specialists are responsible for providing high level technical input and leadership; leading the team through change initiatives, finding and implementing technical solutions to problems experienced within the Team/Group, and ensuring the direction of the team is aligned to wider business direction and priorities. 

Hybrid working 

There will be opportunities to work in a hybrid way, depending on individual needs and the needs of the team – this will be agreed in discussion with the Team Manager. In order to undertake the role effectively, this is likely to mean being able to attend the office in Taunton 1 to 2 days a week as a minimum – or more often as required to support the team or project activity.

Geospatial data capture and modelling/ Geospatial data manipulation 

As the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Geodetic and PNT (Position, Navigation & Timing) data processing, databasing, and archiving, drive the continuous improvement of UKHO's geodetic procedures, with reference to relevant IHO standards. 

Manage and coordinate the technical component of GNSS risk and impact on geodetic and PNT data collection. 

Geospatial data management 

Provide technical advice to Data Stewards with regards to geodetic data – including guidance on developing data strategy, supporting data management, and adapting to future industry needs. 

Geospatial data standards and quality 

Lead the design and oversee the processes which provide the analysis and processing of incoming complex geodetic datasets within agreed timeframes and schedules. The writing of verification reports and the promulgation of verified data to the other systems that require it. 

Geospatial software and systems 

Build/maintain relationships with equipment/software manufacturers and survey contractors in order to consult on the best formats, systems, and practices. Ensure use of geodetic data and technology aligns with current best available practice throughout UKHO systems and processes. 

As PNT SME, keep up to date with emerging risks around weaknesses in GNSS and the impact on UKHO products and services, engaging with UKHO internal stakeholders. 

Capability Building 

Role model the behaviours and sharing of expertise expected of a Lead Specialist and provide ongoing technical mentoring for those developing along the technical pathway. 

Advise on best practise for survey collection for Hydrographic Programmes, Defence Hydrographic Programmes and Royal Navy survey teams. 

Deliver or advise on the delivery of specialist geodetic training for UKHO staff, at all levels and provide training to overseas organisations to support External Engagement objectives, when required. 

Represent the UKHO as an influential contributor to working groups on Geodesy and Position, Navigation and Timing, including those shaping Government policy, such as the Maritime Interference Group, Royal Institute of Navigation PNT Working Group and UK PNT Office Community of Practice. 

Build / maintain close working relationships with relevant external stakeholders and Government bodies such as DSIT, Ordnance Survey, Royal Institute of Navigation and the UK National PNT Office. Ensure the UKHO and the mariner is considered in future best practice. 

Geospatial Strategy and Architecture 

Lead or provide consultancy for technical projects/change initiatives relating to Geodesy and Position, Navigation & Timing and adjacent activity. Advise on appropriate developing technologies to be embedded in UKHO. The postholder will be expected to bring new/novel perspectives based on their own research and engagement with Industry. 

Provide expert advice to UKHO initiatives and projects to ensure that geodetic and PNT is handled adequately within them.

• This specialist technical leadership role demands a high level of technical expertise, currency and credibility. Candidates should demonstrate strong knowledge of geodetic and PNT processing systems, including their use in hydrographic data processing, the team’s processes and products and the ability to identify inaccuracies in GNSS data and wider risks to maritime positioning systems. 
• You will identify and deliver improvements that increase team efficiency and accuracy while maintaining high-quality products and services for customers. 
• You will have demonstrable experience in communicating and influencing with a wide variety of audiences and you will need to help lead through change. 
• As a technical coach and mentor, you will need to be capable of developing colleagues, enabling them to broaden their technical knowledge, skills and behaviours.

Alongside your salary of £48,746, UK Hydrographic Office contributes £14,121 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides (opens in a new window). 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.