Purser

Are you an experienced maritime professional with a passion for excellence in hotel services and logistics? As the Purser aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough, you will lead the catering and accommodation departments, ensuring the wellbeing of our crew and scientists in one of the world’s most extreme environments.

Reporting directly to the Master, you will manage everything from high-standard victualling and stock control to port documentation and onboard medical care.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Department Leadership: Line manage the catering team, focusing on performance, morale, and high-quality service.

• Hotel & Catering Management: Oversee menus, domestic economy, and the maintenance of all accommodation and galley spaces.

• Logistics & Supply: Manage the ordering of provisions, hardware, and linen; oversee stock control and victualling costs.

• Port & Legal Documentation: Prepare all documentation for port entry/clearance and manage the ship’s Bond and customs liaison.

• Safety & Welfare: Act as the lead for medical emergency response (when no doctor is present) and conduct safety briefings for all new joiners.

• Administration: Manage crew certification, discharge books, travel arrangements, and the ship’s key system.

Requirements

To excel in this role, you must be a resilient leader with significant seagoing experience.

Essential Qualifications

• STCW Ship's Cook Certificate of Competency.

• Level 3 Award in Food Safety in Catering (MCA Recognised).

• Valid ENG1 Seafarer Medical Certificate (without restrictions).

• STCW Basic Training (PST, FPFF, EFA, & PSSR) and Designated Security Duties.

• Proven experience in Line Management within a maritime or hotel environment.

• Ability to lead a shipboard medical response party.

Desirable Skills

• STCW Proficiency in Medical Care.

• Previous experience with Planned Maintenance Systems (PMS).

• An innovative approach to problem-solving in remote environments.

Why Join the British Antarctic Survey (BAS)?

Working with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and UKRI, you will be at the heart of vital scientific research.

Benefits include:

• A defined benefit pension scheme.

• Exceptional holiday entitlement.

• Exclusive employee shopping and travel discounts.

• The unique opportunity to work in the Polar Regions.

How to Apply

Please Note: We prefer online applications. To be considered, you must submit:

1. A Tailored CV.

2. A Covering Letter outlining your motivation and how you meet the specific criteria.

Important: Ensure the job reference number (2000) is in the filename of your documents. Assessment is based solely on your CV and Cover Letter.

[Apply Before 22/03/2026]