Coastal Process Scientist

Fixed-term contract for up-to 12 months, to cover the postholder’s maternity leave
£32,046 – £34,811 per annum (depending on experience)
37 hours per week
This is a full-time position, however, we welcome applications from those who wish to work part-time or job share.

Join the South West Coastal Monitoring team based at the University of Plymouth to help monitor our coast around the whole of South West England! This is an exciting opportunity to join a team of coastal process scientists to help collect, appraise and analyse data supporting coastal processes around our beautiful coastline.

We can offer:

• A flexi scheme with up to 2 days flexi per month that can be taken.
• Hybrid working – part office based, and part home based.
• Generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Generous annual leave and wellbeing package.
• Career development through professional learning and development.
• Outdoor surveying opportunities (of beaches and perhaps coastal assets).
• 24/7 employee discount access and employee assistance support.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• An Honours Degree or equivalent in Marine Science, Marine Geography, Civil or Maritime Engineering, Oceanography or similar.
• An excellent level of competency in researching and analysing coastal process data.
• IT skills, including GIS (Geographic Information System), particularly in respect to coastal processes and management.
• The ability to undertake independent research and produce detailed analytical reports together with advice and recommendations for coastal management authorities.
• The ability to communicate with a wide variety of audiences, and to build and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external colleagues.
• Excellent knowledge of coastal processes and how this impacts local communities.
• Knowledge of coastal management practices.
• The level of fitness necessary to undertake coastal asset surveys involving carrying equipment and walking significant distances.

We’re better together.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to a diverse and inclusive organisation. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their age, caring responsibilities, disability, sex, gender reassignment/trans status, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation and socio-economic status. We also welcome applications from military veterans and their families.

It is vital to read the job description and person specification for this role – it will help you understand whether your knowledge, skills and experience match the job requirements. The candidate will be expected to work at a Grade D (see Career Grade Details in the job description). In your supporting statement please tell us how you meet each of the essential criteria asked for in the person specification.

Closing Date: Tuesday 6th October 2026 @ midnight

Interview Date: Thursday 22nd/ Friday 23rd October 2026

Please note that we are unable to sponsor work visas.

Please note that all applicants will be notified whether or not they have progressed to the interview stage by 16th October 2026.

For an informal discussion please contact Emerald Siggery, Coastal Process Team Leader, on [email protected]

No agencies please.