At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and optimisation of electrical systems for advanced naval projects.
- Company: Join Navantia UK, a dynamic company with a rich maritime heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values your contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable maritime technologies and complex engineering solutions.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and experience in power systems design required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state‑owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well‑positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the country.
Are you ready to take the lead on some of the most advanced naval engineering projects in the world? Navantia UK is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to join our growing Bristol‑based team. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the design, integration, and optimisation of electrical and control systems for complex naval and government platforms – shaping the future of maritime capability.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead the design, integration, and optimisation of electrical systems for naval and government vessels
- Specify and develop power generation and distribution systems (HV & LV)
- Deliver robust energy management strategies that improve efficiency and reduce emissions
- Collaborate across engineering disciplines to ensure seamless system integration
- Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and operational standards
- Provide technical leadership and mentor junior engineers
- Engage with clients, suppliers, and regulatory authorities
- Drive innovation in areas such as alternative power sources, future fuels, autonomy, and digital systems
- Support projects through build and throughout the vessel lifecycle
About You
You’ll be an experienced electrical systems engineer with the confidence and capability to lead technically complex projects. You’ll bring:
- A degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related discipline (Master’s desirable)
- Significant experience in power generation and distribution system design and integration
- Strong knowledge of HV and LV systems within marine or naval platforms
- Understanding of naval/maritime codes, standards, and regulations
- Experience with energy management and sustainable technologies
- Chartered Engineer status (or actively working towards it)
- Excellent leadership, mentoring, and problem‑solving skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities
- Eligibility for BPSS and potentially SC clearance
Why Join Navantia UK?
- Work on nationally and internationally significant naval programmes
- Lead complex, high‑impact engineering solutions
- Be part of a growing UK organisation with global backing
- Contribute to sustainable and future‑focused maritime technologies
- Join a collaborative, expert engineering community
Additional Information
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Hybrid working – typically 3 days per week in our Bristol office.
- Career growth opportunities within a global organisation.
- The chance to work on complex, cutting‑edge naval projects.
- An inclusive, collaborative workplace where your contributions make a difference.
Equal Opportunity: We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. To ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, we commit to a fair and unbiased recruitment process at every stage. This includes ensuring hiring managers are aware of legislation, providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities, and actively seeking to eliminate any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic. Our goal is to create a recruitment environment where every candidate feels valued and has an equal chance to succeed. If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online, please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.
Principal Electrical Engineer in Bristol employer: Navantia Group
Navantia UK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work on significant naval engineering projects in a collaborative and inclusive environment. With a strong focus on career growth and innovation, employees benefit from competitive salaries, hybrid working arrangements, and the chance to contribute to sustainable maritime technologies while being part of a globally backed organisation. Join us in shaping the future of Britain's defence and maritime capabilities from our Bristol office.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Electrical Engineer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills and be ready to discuss them in detail. As a Principal Electrical Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in power generation and distribution systems, so brush up on those topics before your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining Navantia UK and contributing to our exciting projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Electrical Engineer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Electrical Engineer role. Highlight your experience with power generation and distribution systems, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects that showcase your leadership skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about naval engineering and how your background aligns with our mission at Navantia UK. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to highlight your technical expertise in HV and LV systems. Mention any specific technologies or methodologies you’ve used that relate to energy management and sustainable practices.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Navantia Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your electrical engineering knowledge, especially around power generation and distribution systems. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable technologies and energy management strategies, as these are key areas for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Electrical Engineer, you'll be expected to lead and mentor junior engineers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past, and be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving and collaboration across disciplines.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Dive into Navantia UK's mission and recent projects. Knowing their focus on innovation in maritime technology and sustainability will help you align your answers with their goals during the interview. It shows you're genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, project expectations, and opportunities for career growth within Navantia UK. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
