Lead Drives and Systems Engineer in Whetstone

Help shape the future of power and propulsion technology at one of the most unique test facilities in the world. The Marine Power Test Facility (MPTF) is a dedicated, full-power, land-based site that de-risks present and future power and propulsion technologies — from early product development and verification through to complete, full-scale integrated power and propulsion systems, including new "clean ship" technologies. It is the only commercial land-based facility in the world capable of full-scale testing of complete integrated naval power and propulsion systems, from ship-fit prime movers through to propulsion, at up to 20MW scale.

As Lead Drives and Systems Engineer, you'll bring deep technical expertise to the design, development, and validation of electro-mechanical systems tested at the MPTF, supporting major UK infrastructure and defence programs. You'll provide technical leadership and mentorship across project phases and act as a key technical interface with customers — without formal people-management responsibility. This is a role for someone who wants to turn complex engineering challenges into solutions that matter, on a platform unlike anywhere else in the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead electrical systems design from concept through commissioning at the MPTF — including architectures, schematics, and interface definitions — and specify, design, and validate control systems for MW-scale power electronic drive systems.
• Perform electrical calculations, modelling, load analysis, simulations, and fault analysis, ensuring designs meet performance, safety, and industry standards (International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), British Standards (BS), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Underwriters Laboratories (UL)).
• Serve as the main technical point of contact for customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders on electrical engineering topics, supporting multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Guide test planning and commissioning activities at the full-scale test facility, analyzing data to support class-leading power system solutions and de-risk new technologies.
• Drive root cause analysis and resolution of complex electrical system issues during development, testing, commissioning, and field operation.
• Mentor engineers and champion continuous improvement in engineering processes, tools, and design practices.
• Maintain engineering documentation, risk management processes, and quality control systems in line with company guidelines.

The ideal candidate brings strong electrical systems expertise, enjoys solving complex technical problems hands-on, and is energized by the chance to work on a one-of-a-kind test platform supporting major national infrastructure.

Qualifications Required:

• A formal education and Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering is nice to have, but we are most interested in your total experience and professional achievements.
• Significant experience in electrical/electro-mechanical systems design, ideally within industrial, marine, or defence domains.
• Strong, demonstrable experience with variable speed drive control schemes.
• Working toward or holding Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
• Due to the nature of this role, you must be a sole UK National able to obtain "UK Eyes Only" security clearance.

Preferred:

• Background in Machines and Drives (PEMD) Power System, generator excitation systems, or Power Electronics.
• Experience in a project engineering or technical lead capacity, with proficiency in electrical schematic design.
• Previous experience supporting UK naval engineering projects.

Why This Role Is Different

You’ll work hands-on at the MPTF — the world's only commercial land-based facility capable of full-scale testing of complete integrated naval power and propulsion systems up to 20MW. From generating main and balance-of-plant equipment specifications for switchboards, generators, converters, transformers, and motors, to collaborating closely with customers, suppliers, and multidisciplinary colleagues, you’ll help de-risk the technologies that will define the next generation of marine and energy power systems.