Principal Mechanical Architect – Thales
Location: Templecombe, United Kingdom (Minimum 3 days onsite).
About the Team
Thales Underwater Systems (UWS) designs, develops, and supports sonar systems for anti‑submarine warfare and mine hunting. Join our close‑knit, friendly, and hardworking team.
About the role
* Lead mechanical engineering for the Towed Array Portfolio, supporting product and development.
* Provide direction to the mechanical team and increase mechanical team capability.
* Support the PDA (Project Design Authority) and PLA (Product Line Authority) in a technical capacity.
* Coordinate product definition and assess trade‑offs between cost, customer requirements, and technological possibilities.
* Integrate product architecture with mechanical architecture within the Towed Array Portfolio.
* Mentor other TA team members.
* Perform general engineering tasks as required by the business.
* Conduct specialised mechanical design tasks for subsea environments.
* Support trials and integration activities.
* Monitor technological developments.
About You – Skills
* Fundamental understanding of mechanical and manufacturing engineering principles.
* Proficiency with mechanical engineering software packages.
* Understanding of engineering development lifecycles.
* Good interpersonal skills and ability to lead and develop others.
* Proactive “can‑do” mentality, works autonomously.
* Team‑oriented performance drive.
* Microsoft Office suite experience.
* Demonstrated autonomy and ability to lead and influence stakeholders.
* Logical problem‑solving approach.
Experience
* Proficient in CREO & PDMLink.
* Packaging of electronics and associated cabling.
* Design for platform installation (ship/submarine).
* Design of lifting equipment.
* Producing key point manufacturing drawings from models.
* Producing detailed manufacturing and assembly drawings.
* Supporting preparation of design requirements.
* Using configuration management tooling.
* Proficiency in 3D CAD systems.
Desirable
* Design of sonar assemblies and equipment for the subsea environment.
* Design and deployment systems.
* Design/specification of subsea cable assemblies.
* Experience in the Defence Engineering domain.
Qualifications
* HNC / HND / Degree OR proven experience in a similar role of at least 10 years.
Security Clearance
This role requires a UK National and achievement of Security Clearance (SC) without any caveats. SC clearance must be obtained prior to commencement of employment.
What We Can Offer
At Thales, we offer a competitive base salary and a benefits package that includes:
* Half‑day every Friday.
* Hybrid working.
* Pension scheme.
* 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Life Cover.
* Progression and development opportunities.
* 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and mental wellbeing app.
* Employee discounts on major brands.
We are an equal opportunities employer and uphold diversity and inclusion at all levels.
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