Senior Commissioning Engineer - Mechanical

## Senior Commissioning Engineer – Mechanical: A Strategic Career Opportunity in Defence Engineering

This Senior Commissioning Engineer – Mechanical role at Babcock, based in Plymouth, Devon, presents a unique and impactful career opportunity for experienced engineering professionals. It offers the chance to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and operational readiness of the UK's Astute Class submarines during their vital maintenance periods. This is more than just a job; it's a chance to contribute directly to national defence capabilities.

For candidates looking to advance their careers in a specialized and critical sector, this position offers significant advantages. Let's explore the key aspects and considerations:

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: Your expertise will directly contribute to the safety and performance of the UK's naval defence, a role with immense national importance and professional satisfaction.
• Specialized Expertise: This role delves into the intricate world of submarine systems, offering a deep dive into nuclear plant foundations, reactor, propulsion, and ship systems. This is an ideal environment for engineers who thrive on complex technical challenges.
• Career Progression: Babcock demonstrates a strong commitment to employee development. The role is supported by an Employee Development Matrix (EDM), a performance-related competency tool designed to facilitate pay progression and professional growth within the Commissioning Group. The potential for increased earnings after 3 years, provided set criteria are met, is a clear indicator of this commitment.
• Hybrid Working: The role offers a hybrid working arrangement, balancing crucial onsite collaboration and hands-on work with the flexibility of remote working. This caters to modern work-life balance expectations.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Babcock offers a robust benefits package that includes a competitive salary range, a matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance, a share ownership scheme, access to health and wellbeing services (including a Digital GP and nutritional consultations), and opportunities for holiday trading.
• Professional Development: Training is provided for essential qualifications such as the Nuclear Plant Foundation Course, Nuclear Practitioner Course, Dockyard Nuclear Systems Course, and Submarine Quality Assurance Course. This commitment to upskilling ensures you remain at the forefront of your field.
• Shift Work Opportunities: While the standard role is full-time, the opportunity to engage in shift working (attracting a Shift Disturbance Allowance) and voluntary Optimised Working Patterns (OWP) can offer additional earning potential and flexibility for those whose circumstances align.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Security Clearance: A critical requirement for this role is the ability to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPPI) security clearance. This necessitates being a sole UK national. Candidates should be aware of the implications of national security vetting on their eligibility, which is influenced by birthplace, nationality, and residency history.
• Specialized Knowledge: The role demands "in-depth knowledge of SSN submarine reactor, propulsion, and ship systems" and "experience working with submarine commissioning, production, and project teams." While training is provided for specific courses, a solid foundation in mechanical engineering and prior experience in related complex project environments will be highly advantageous.
• Location: The position is based in Plymouth, Devon. While hybrid working is offered, regular onsite presence is a core component of the role.
• Shift Work Requirements: Be prepared for the possibility of shift working, as it's a requirement when workload demands. While this comes with additional allowances, it's an important factor to consider regarding your work schedule preferences.
• Rigorous Environment: Working within the defence sector, particularly on submarine projects, involves adherence to stringent engineering standards, safety constraints, and regulatory compliance. This requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality assurance.

In conclusion, the Senior Commissioning Engineer – Mechanical position at Babcock is an exceptional opportunity for seasoned mechanical engineers seeking to apply their skills in a highly strategic and technically demanding field. It offers a blend of challenging work, professional growth, competitive remuneration, and the chance to make a tangible contribution to national security. For those who meet the security clearance requirements and possess a strong technical aptitude, this role promises a rewarding and progressive career path.