NATO
Scientist (Interoperability)
Job Location
La Spezia, Italy
Job Description
1. POST CONTEXT This is a position within the Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) an organization of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). CMRE is an established world-class scientific research and experimentation facility that organizes and conducts scientific research and technology development centred on the maritime domain delivering innovative and field tested Science & Technology (S&T) solutions to address defence and security needs of the Alliance. The position is within the Research Division (RD) which is responsible for identifying developing and delivering Science & Technology (S&T) solutions to the needs of the Alliance in the maritime domain. The Division leads the development of CMRE’s scientific strategy and through its capability in ocean sensing numerical modelling big data analytics artificial intelligence and autonomy delivers the Centre’s S&T goals while maintaining CMRE’s reputation within the scientific community. 2. PRINCIPAL DUTIES The incumbent is responsible for the development of conceptual aspects for command‑and‑control of Unmanned Systems their translation into data model(s) and their subsequent implementation and validation as message sets exchanged during trials and exercises. The scientist will work in close collaboration with other CMRE scientists and engineers working with unmanned and autonomous systems with the goal to develop scalable and flexible solutions to enable interoperable and secure operations with unmanned and autonomous systems. Such solutions will be integrated into NATO standards supporting the adoption of networked robotic assets into military operations across the warfare areas. 3. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND ADDITIONAL DUTIES a. Flexibility Clause – The incumbent may be required to perform other related duties as directed. All other related duties should correspond with the required competencies for the job. b. Deployment / Travel – The incumbent may be required to perform their duties onboard Centre or chartered vessels and may be required to undertake TDY assignments within and outside NATO boundaries. c. Certification – The incumbent needs to hold a fit for sea certificate in line with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) standards before taking up duty. 4. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS a. Professional Experience Sound experience with Unmanned Systems and in particular autonomous systems and their command‑and‑control requirements. Experience in designing, developing or supporting command‑and‑control architectures for Unmanned Systems. Experience in the practical usage of data modelling software tools. Programming: knowledge of at least one of the following programming languages (Python, C#, Java). More languages is a plus. Solid knowledge and scientific experience in physics, mathematics, engineering or related field demonstrated by a record of scientific or technical publications in the fields of Unmanned Systems, software architectures, communications engineering or related field(s). Excellent documenting abilities. Experience conducting scientific / technical project work within a multi‑national environment demonstrated through project participation. b. Education / Professional Experience MSc degree in physics, mathematics, engineering or related field with a specific focus on unmanned / autonomous vehicles or related field and at least 5 years of relevant post‑related work experience. Or PhD in physics, mathematics, engineering or related field with a specific focus on unmanned / autonomous vehicles and at least 2 years of relevant post‑related work experience. c. Language Requirements A thorough knowledge of one of the two NATO languages both written and spoken is essential; some knowledge of the other is desirable. English SLP 3333. NOTE: Most of the work of CMRE is conducted in the English language. 5. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Experience with Enterprise Architect. Deep knowledge of STANAG 4817 down to the different volumes. Knowledge of data architectures to support unmanned systems operational deployments. Knowledge of the NATO Standardization Agreement processes. Project management certification (e.g. PRINCE2). Documented experience in managing scientific projects. Demonstrated ability to obtain funding for new research activities. Sea‑trial participation experience. Experience to work with Navys and / or Defence organizations. Internationally recognised member of their technical community of interest. 6. ATTRIBUTES / COMPETENCIES Excellent communication skills both oral and written; able to communicate at all levels. Very good interpersonal skills; adapts to the team, solicits inputs and encourages others. Innovative and driven; always displaying sound judgement. Excellent time management and organizational skills. Clear analytical thinking; learns rapidly and manages knowledge effectively. All CMRE personnel are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the current NATO Code of Conduct agreed by the North Atlantic Council (NAC) and thus display the core values of integrity, impartiality, loyalty, accountability and professionalism. 7. REMARKS The duties are performed in an office, laboratory, workshop environment or on‑board Centre ships. Slightly undesirable working conditions may apply. The nature of this position may require the staff members to be called at times to travel for work and / or to work outside normal office hours. About Us The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is part of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO). The mission of the STO is to help position both national and NATO science and technology investments as a strategic enabler and technology advantage for the defence and security posture of NATO Allies and partners. The Centre conducts scientific research and technology development and delivers innovative, field‑tested S&T solutions to address the defence and security needs of the Alliance and has more than 60 years of experience, producing a cadre of leaders in ocean science, modelling and simulation, acoustics and other disciplines that have been built into the operational concepts of NATO and the Nations. What we offer Salary (Pay Basis) : 5725.22 EUR Monthly. Grade: ABCL grade A2 / NATO grade G15. A world‑class research facility located in the sea port of La Spezia, Italy, supported by two specialised research vessels. Excellent annual leave and (where eligible) home leave. Three‑year definite duration contract, renewable for subsequent periods subject to business needs, satisfactory performance and the need to rotate skills and talent within the Organization. Our recruitment process Only nationals of NATO member countries may apply. Applications (including the most relevant publications, diplomas, CV) are submitted via the E‑recruitment system. Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance (provided by the national authorities of the selected candidate) and approval of the candidate’s medical file by the CMRE Medical Adviser. Additional information CMRE values diverse backgrounds and perspectives and is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and talented workforce. We welcome applications of nationals from all Member States and strongly encourage women to apply. Selected candidates are expected to be role models of integrity and to promote good governance through ongoing efforts in their work. J-18808-Ljbffr
Location: La Spezia, Liguria, IT
Posted Date: 10/21/2025
Location: La Spezia, Liguria, IT
Posted Date: 10/21/2025
Contact Information
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