SDA Atmospheric and Aerosol Science Systems Engineer

British Antarctic Survey - BAS 26 75 Contract type 3 year Fixed-Term Contract Location Cambridge Salary Band D S1 £46,444 - £51,088 per annum Closing date 15/11/2026 Interview date w/c 23/11/2026

Overview Purpose To commission the atmospheric science systems onboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough (SDA) including:

• the operation of the trace gas and aerosol instrumentation.
• implementing air sampling methods for the atmospheric science instrumentation on board the SDA, including sample flow control and inlet characterisation.
• developing standard operating procedures (including routine maintenance schedules, calibration procedures, responsibility for stock and consumables).
• supporting the modification of equipment where necessary.
• writing relevant health and safety documentation (input of data into BAS information management system), automation of the systems to build high-quality, long-term observations and datasets.

• To develop scientific or operational electronic and electrical systems.
• To maintain scientific or operational systems including those on ships or at remote polar locations. Some ability to support and understand mechanical systems would also be expected.
• Provide engineering support and projects to the scientific and operational departments in the UK, and users on board ships and in polar regions.
• Working with and supporting engineering colleagues, delivering projects and tasks in a professional manner.
• Other duties as appropriate.

• Experience with atmospheric science instrumentation.
• Field work experience.
• Experience with gas handling systems.
• Troubleshooting instrumentation.
• Relevant HNC or higher Degree level.
• Suitable engineering or scientific mathematical capabilities.
• Proficient in written and spoken English.
• Demonstrable Teamwork.
• Willingness to work on ship or remote polar environment.
• You will need to pass a medical to demonstrate that you are medically fit to work in Antarctic conditions.

• Experience with trace gas or aerosol measurements.
• Knowledge of traceability of standards/calibration scales as applied to atmospheric measurements.
• Experience with Polar or marine systems, including the maintenance of instrumentation or measurement systems.
• Data acquisition.
• High level programming, Python, or similar.
• Degree level Relevant Degree and/or extensive experience. Masters/PhD or equivalent experience.
• Experience use of design software.
• Project and budget management for small projects.
• Able to communicate to a wide range of audiences.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role.

UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

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