NSRS Portable Launch and Recovery System (PLARS) Supervisor/Deputy Supervisor
Westway, Glasgow
Full-Time, Permanent
Please note that this role requires security checks.
The Role
The NSRS PLARS Supervisor/Deputy Supervisor plays a critical role in delivering the operational capability of the NATO Submarine Rescue System, enabling the successful launch and recovery of the Submarine Rescue Vehicle.
Supporting the in‑Service Support Manager and Maintenance Manager in steady state, the role is responsible for the material readiness of the PLARS system, including replenishment, defect troubleshooting and repair, and pre‑ and post‑operational checks. The PLARS Supervisor/Deputy Supervisor may also lead and support a team of technicians.
During mobilisation, the PLARS Supervisor/Deputy Supervisor will lead the deployment of the system onto vessels of opportunity and direct PLARS operations at sea, ensuring all activities are conducted in accordance with JFD policies, processes, and procedures.
What you'll be doing:
- Operate, deploy, and maintain NSRS PLARS at defined readiness states, including on‑call availability at Rescue Ready and Safe to Operate status.
- Provide leadership ashore at NSRS HQ, ensuring PLARS and associated equipment maintenance is effectively controlled and compliant.
- Implement the Safety & Environmental Management System (SEMS) and align operations with vessel owners’ safety management systems.
- Lead pre‑operational briefings, covering objectives, roles, methods, safety, go/no‑go criteria, and lessons learned.
- Ensure the PLARS team remains trained, competent, and medically fit, including oversight of contractors and subcontractors.
- Carry out duties as required to support the NSRS Contract and company operations.
What we're looking for:
- Time‑served Mechanical Engineer, with strong experience in hydraulics, lift systems, and deck operations.
- Proven experience working with submarine rescue systems or complex marine lifting systems (submarine rescue experience desirable).
- Background in public service, defence, or offshore environments, with familiarity working to marine and defence standards (e.g. DEFSTAN, Lloyd’s Rules, classified systems).
- Strong understanding of safety and quality management, including SEMS, high‑pressure systems, and international standards (ISO 9001, ISO 45001).
- Experience delivering commercially sensitive or classified projects, with the ability to operate professionally in secure environments.
Why join us?
- Early finish on Fridays
- Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.)
- Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility
- Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions
- Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations
About Us:
James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration - Visit our website
James Fisher Defence (JFD), part of the James Fisher Group, is a global leader in underwater capability, delivering cutting-edge diving, submarine rescue, and hyperbaric solutions to both commercial and defence markets. Operating worldwide, JFD is the foremost provider of submarine rescue services and a trusted name in submarine escape training. We’re also at the forefront of hyperbaric rescue innovation and a leading supplier of advanced diving equipment and saturation systems across the industry. Explore more about JFD
If this sounds like the ideal next step in your career, then click ‘apply’ now!
You can find out more about James Fisher & Sons group companies and valued behaviours by watching a short film here: We are One James Fisher - YouTube
Due to the volume of applications, we receive for our vacancies, on occasion applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.
At James Fisher and Sons, we are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce.
To support an accessible and inclusive recruitment experience in the UK, we partner with Vercida. You can learn more about our approach by visiting our company page: James Fisher and Sons diversity, inclusion, culture - VERCIDA