Job Title: Principal Engineer
Location: Devonport, Plymouth, Rosyth Fife or Bristol
Compensation: Competitive + Benefits
Role Type: Full time / Permanent
Role ID: SF
Lead the Future of Marine Engineering
At Babcock, we’re working to create a safe and secure world, together. If you join us, you can play your part as a Principal Engineer at one of our various sites.
The role
As a Principal Engineer, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of naval platforms, delivering innovative mechanical engineering solutions that support critical defence and marine programmes—including the Type 31 Frigate and Arrowhead‑class vessels.
This is a senior, high‑impact role where you’ll guide multidisciplinary engineering teams, influence major maritime projects, and contribute to cutting‑edge naval capability. It’s an opportunity to develop your career through exposure to complex engineering challenges while helping deliver work that strengthens national security and protects those who serve.
Day-to-day, you’ll have the following responsibilities:
* Lead and guide engineering teams, providing technical oversight to ensure systems integrate seamlessly with project and customer requirements.
* Deliver engineering support across power and propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary systems, ensuring compliance with maritime and naval standards.
* Resolve production and installation queries, including alignment, non‑compliance investigations, and liaison with Classification Societies.
* Produce, review, and approve engineering documentation such as specifications, calculations, and technical reports.
* Act as a key technical interface with customers, OEMs, and suppliers, maintaining strong and collaborative working relationships.
This is a full‑time position, working 35 hours per week, based at either Devonport, Bristol or Rosyth. Hybrid working patterns are available, with an expectation of regular onsite presence.
Essential experience of the Principal Engineer
* Significant experience producing and approving detailed engineering outputs, including specifications, calculations, and commissioning documentation.
* Strong working knowledge of engineering procedures, codes, and standards.
* Proficiency with CAD tools (2D/3D), systems analysis software, and engineering platforms.
* Demonstrated success in leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex engineering projects.
* Experience mentoring and developing engineering talent to build capability and performance.
Qualifications for the Principal Engineer
* Degree in Marine, Mechanical, or related engineering discipline.
* Chartered Engineer status with a recognised institution (e.g., RINA, IMechE, IMarEST, IET).
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in naval or marine engineering.
* Expertise in power and propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary systems.
* Strong working knowledge of IMO, SOLAS, and Classification Society standards (e.g., Lloyd’s Register, DNV).
Security Clearance
The successful candidate must be able to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) security clearance for this role.
Many of the positions within our company are subject to national security clearance and Trade Control restrictions. This means that your eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held.
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