The
RNLI
is the charity that saves lives at sea through lifeboat search and rescue, lifeguards, and water safety education. The charity now seeks a
Senior Station Technician
to help keep Thurso Lifeboat Station in perfect operational order – so that when a service call does occur, the crew will be prepared.
Key Responsibilities
* Carrying out preventative and corrective maintenance to RNLI facilities, assets and equipment at the station, ensuring risk assessments and job cards are used and logistics management processes are adhered to.
* Providing on-call afloat mechanic support to the station as required.
* Inspiring and motivating your team: supporting their development, conducting shore-based training, identifying ways they can improve, and imparting your valuable knowledge.
* Recording Safety, Health & Environmental (SHE) observations, non-compliance and near misses to help lead and maintain a safe working culture.
* Meeting and talking to the public about your station's work.
* Spending time in the day-to-day running of the Lifeboat Station; this may be in the form of answering emails, ensuring records are maintained and working with the Operations Team.
* Carrying out approved modifications and concessions to RNLI assets and equipment, liaising with the Regional Engineer for any equipment design changes or updates.
* Liaising with and facilitating contractors on site.
* Maintaining awareness of budgetary responsibilities at a station level, aiding in the raising and completion of purchase orders.
* Providing technical and development support to Regional and Station Technicians through coaching and mentoring in technical, safety, continuous improvement, and policy matters.
Skills and Experience
* NVQ L4/SVQ L5 in an engineering discipline, a time-served engineering apprenticeship, or a sound background and experience in mechanical, electrical, or electronic engineering.
* Knowledge and experience working with diesel engines, as well as DC electrical, hydraulic, and electronic control systems (an engineering background and mindset is essential).
* Experience of fulfilling or the ability to train towards a Lifeboat Mechanic role or equivalent.
* Ability to build effective relationships with volunteers, local supporters, and RNLI staff beyond.
* Personally motivated, prepared to work in isolation and as part of a team.
* Maritime mechanical skills (desirable); if you have worked on cars, HGVs, agricultural, plant or generators, your skills can be adapted to suit the environment.
* Keen to solve problems, drive your own development and support others to develop.
* Leadership and management qualities.
* High-quality interpersonal skills and the ability to build open and inclusive relationships.
Benefits
* 26 days' annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
* Outstanding pension scheme (contributions of up to 16% of basic salary).
* Life assurance.
* Health and dental cash plan.
Salary:
Up to £41,000 + Excellent Benefits + Relocation Assistance.
Location:
Thurso, Highland, Scotland. Note: this is a 24/7 seagoing emergency response position; you will need to live within a reasonable distance of Thurso Lifeboat Station.
Closing date:
19 October 2025.