Overview
This is a position within the Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE), an organization of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). CMRE conducts scientific research and technology development in the maritime domain, delivering field-tested science & technology solutions to address defence and security needs of the Alliance. This position is within the Engineering and Information Technology Division (EITD), which supports the execution of the Programme of Work. EITD consists of the Engineering Branch and the Information Technology Branch.

The Engineering Branch addresses engineering requirements of CMRE's research activity by designing, developing, constructing, testing at-sea and maintaining, repairing and calibrating electronic, oceanographic, mechanical, acoustical assemblies and unmanned systems, especially prototypes. The branch includes:

Sonar & Marine Sensors Section
Ocean Engineering Section
Embedded Systems Section


The Information Technology Branch supports computing, networking and data infrastructure, and develops, integrates, and validates software applications, services and products, ensuring interoperability, security and regulatory compliance. The branch includes:

Software Development and Data Management Section
Scientific CIS Section



The position is within the Oceanography Cell of the Ocean Engineering Section of the Engineering Branch.
Principal Duties
The Incumbent provides oceanographic services in support of CMRE Research and Development Programme. The role covers supervision of a broad spectrum of activities including conception, specification, design, procurement, integration, testing, operation, maintenance and repair of cutting-edge oceanographic instrumentation and related marine systems. Duties include a broad spectrum of Oceanographic and Ocean Engineering operations, ashore and on board vessels:

Supervision of the lifecycle management of CMRE marine and oceanographic underwater systems, subsystems and components (specification, procurement, acceptance, testing, calibration, operation at sea, maintenance and repair)
Support to CMRE Project and Programme Managers, including technical proposals and budget planning, for oceanographic and marine activities
Engineering coordination of sea/land based Trials, including planning, preparation, logistics, execution and reporting
Supervision of the CMRE underwater Gliders laboratory and control room
Execution of field and laboratory equipment evaluation and acceptance tests, using software-based engineering tools and mathematical models
Supervision and coordination of a team of Technicians and Craftsperson as required by the Ocean Engineering Section work programme

Special Requirements and Additional Duties

Flexibility Clause
Deployment/Travel: The incumbent may be required to perform duties onboard Centre or chartered vessels and may undertake TDY assignments within and outside NATO boundaries
Certification: The incumbent needs to hold a fit-for-sea certificate per IMO and ILO standards before taking up duty

Education / Professional Experience / Language Requirements

Essential Qualifications

Professional experience in operation of state-of-the-art oceanographic equipment and systems
Participation in oceanographic activities ashore and at sea in support of underwater research or related operations
Technical coordination of sea trials, including planning, preparation, execution, and reporting
Field and laboratory acceptance, calibration and functional tests
Support to technical projects, including planning, execution and reporting
Preparation of technical documents (feasibility studies, proposals, specifications, procedures, reports)
Management of technical teams in day-to-day tasks, including objective setting and evaluation
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related discipline and at least 3 years post-related experience
Master's Degree in Engineering or related discipline and at least 1 year post-related experience


Knowledge of one NATO language (English or French) is essential; some knowledge of the other is desirable. SLP 3333 (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing). Note: Most work at CMRE is conducted in English.

Desirable Qualifications

Design, integration, development, testing, operation of oceanographic and marine engineering equipment (sensors, payloads, moorings, gears)
Marine operations in multiple environments (e.g., Mediterranean, Blue Water, Arctic)
Management and operation of underwater autonomous systems
Knowledge of data quality checks and data management
Project Management training
Experience in international environments
Master's Degree and at least 3 years post-related experience

Attributes / Competencies

Excellent written and oral communication at all levels
Strong interpersonal skills; ability to solicit inputs and encourage others
Innovative, driven, with sound judgement
Excellent time management and organisational skills
Problem solving and initiative
Advising and customer-oriented attitude
Motivating and managing teams

All CMRE personnel are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the current NATO Code of Conduct, displaying values of integrity, impartiality, loyalty, accountability and professionalism.
Remarks
The duties are performed in an office, laboratory, workshop environment or on-board Centre ships. Slightly undesirable working conditions may apply.
About Us
The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is part of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO). The STO helps position national and NATO science investments as a strategic enabler for defence and security.
What We Offer

Salary: 5,725.22 EUR monthly (2025 value, subject to future adjustments)
Grade ABCL A2 / NATO G15
Location: CMRE facilities in La Spezia, Italy, with two specialised research vessels
Competitive NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations compensation, allowances and expatriate package where applicable
Generous annual leave and home leave where eligible
Three-year definite duration contract, renewable based on business needs and performance
Interviews may consider candidates for similar future posts if they meet requirements

Our Recruitment Process

Applications are accepted from nationals of NATO member countries only
Submit via the E-recruitment system with CV, relevant publications and diplomas
Appointment subject to security clearance and medical file approval

Additional Information

CMRE values diverse backgrounds and encourages applications from nationals of all member states; women are welcome to apply
Selected candidates are expected to be role models of integrity and governance

How to Apply / Note

Notes on applying within NATO
Note: NATO does not accept recruitment material prepared by generative AI tools; such content may be rejected

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