Principal Naval Architect

Opportunity Review: Principal Naval Architect - Shape the Future of Naval Engineering

For seasoned naval architects seeking a role of significant impact and substantial career advancement, the Principal Naval Architect position presents a compelling proposition. This is not just another job; it's an invitation to lead and innovate within a prestigious and complex shipbuilding programme, directly contributing to national security and the evolution of naval engineering.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Leadership: Take the reins in leading design teams throughout the entire design lifecycle. This includes conceptualization, bid submissions, and final vessel acceptance, offering a complete project ownership experience.
• Career Growth and Development: This role is explicitly designed to foster your career. You'll not only develop innovative design solutions but also be instrumental in supporting and developing team members, opening doors for your own long-term progression within the wider engineering capability group.
• Cutting-Edge Technology and Innovation: Engage with state-of-the-art naval architecture design packages and contribute to the development of groundbreaking technical solutions. Your work will directly influence the capabilities of naval platforms, making this a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.
• Hybrid Working Model: Experience a modern work-life balance with a hybrid arrangement of 3 days working from home and 2 days onsite. This offers flexibility while ensuring essential team collaboration and engagement.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond the competitive salary (£59,110 - £72,337), the company offers a rich benefits package including a generous holiday allowance, matched contribution pension with life assurance, access to extensive health and wellbeing support (Digital GP, annual health checks, employee assistance programme), an employee share scheme, and payment of professional fees.
• Prestigious Industry Involvement: Working on complex shipbuilding programmes offers unparalleled experience and exposure to high-stakes projects that are critical to national security.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Security Clearance: A significant aspect of this role is the requirement to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) security clearance. Candidates should be aware that eligibility for this clearance can be influenced by factors such as place of birth, nationality, and residency history. Thoroughly reviewing the GOV.UK guidance on UK Security Vetting is highly recommended.
• Experience Requirements: While degree-qualified candidates are sought, HND/HNC with extensive relevant experience will be considered. The essential experience includes proven work in the naval/marine industry and proficiency in naval architecture design packages. Experience with specific naval platforms (surface ships and submarines) is advantageous and will strengthen an application.
• Chartered Status: Membership of a relevant professional institution and Chartered Engineer status are required qualifications, underscoring the expectation of a high level of professional expertise and commitment.
• Geographical Considerations: The role offers flexibility in location with opportunities in Devonport, Plymouth, Rosyth, Fife, and Bristol. Candidates should consider their preferred location and commute.

Career Path Guidance:

This Principal Naval Architect role is ideal for individuals who are ready to move into a senior, influential position. If you possess strong leadership potential, a passion for naval design innovation, and a commitment to engineering excellence, this opportunity offers a clear pathway to further leadership roles and specialized expertise within a critical sector. The emphasis on team development and cross-project collaboration ensures continuous learning and broadens your engineering horizons.

This position is a full-time, permanent role, offering stability and the chance to build a lasting career.