At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the commissioning of mechanical propulsion systems for cutting-edge submarines.
- Company: Join BAE Systems, a leader in defence and aerospace innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with relocation support and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while working with advanced technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in mechanical systems and commissioning complex machinery required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
hackajob is collaborating with BAE Critical Skills to connect them with exceptional professionals for this role.
Location: Barrow-In-Furness – We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.
Salary: Competitive
Who we are:
Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions, shaping a safer future for all of us. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.
What you will be doing:
As a Senior Commissioning Engineer – Mechanical (Propulsion), you’ll play a key role in delivering the commissioning of mechanical propulsion systems on the first-of-class Dreadnought submarines. Working in a highly regulated environment, you’ll ensure systems are safely commissioned, tested and brought into service while collaborating with engineering teams, build operations, the Royal Navy and the Ministry of Defence.
Core duties:
- Carry out commissioning activities safely and in accordance with company procedures and legislative requirements
- Liaise with Engineering, Build Operations, the Royal Navy, MoD and other stakeholders to ensure safe and compliant delivery
- Produce, review and maintain commissioning, design and test documentation to the required standard
- Mentor and support less experienced members of the team within your area of expertise
- Maintain accurate records of commissioning activities in line with company policy and regulatory requirements
- Represent BAE Systems during Factory Acceptance Tests, Contractors Sea Trials and other offsite testing activities, including opportunities for overseas travel
- Deliver assigned commissioning activities within agreed timescales and quality standards
Essential Skills:
- Knowledge of mechanical system operation, ideally including steam and condensate systems, lubricating oil systems and cooling systems
- Experience commissioning complex heavy machinery, such as diesel engines, turbo generators or steam turbine plants
- Understanding of commissioning test equipment and associated test activities
- Awareness of Nuclear Site Licence or Authorisation Conditions
- Knowledge of mechanical flushing, pressure testing, endurance testing and system setting to work
- Ability to work safely within a high-risk, highly regulated engineering environment
The Propulsion Mechanical Commissioning Team:
You’ll join the team responsible for commissioning the secondary propulsion plant on the first-of-class Dreadnought submarines. The Dreadnought programme will deliver four ballistic missile submarines to the Royal Navy, ensuring the continuation of the UK’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD). This is an opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most significant engineering programmes while working alongside experienced commissioning specialists. Relocation support packages are available across all Submarines roles, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.
A place where everyone can thrive:
We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people and encourage discussion of reasonable adjustments where needed.
Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Applicants must meet Baseline Personnel Security Standard, and many roles require higher levels of National Security Vetting, including 5–10 years continuous UK residency depending on the role.
Why BAE Systems?
Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. Lifelong learning, meaningful work, and a supportive culture enable you to grow with confidence. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and supported with rewards that matter most to you.
Closing Date: 16th July 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, please apply as early as possible.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commissioning Engineer - Mechanical in Barrow in Furness
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like BAE Critical Skills.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like BAE Critical Skills love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of BAE Critical Skills and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commissioning Engineer - Mechanical in Barrow in Furness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for BAE Critical Skills and the Senior Commissioning Engineer - Mechanical role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at BAE Critical Skills
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at BAE Critical Skills.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at BAE Critical Skills.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with BAE Critical Skills, making you a more appealing candidate.
