Structures Engineer in Appledore

Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, security and energy transition ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. 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 UK.

Job Purpose

We are seeking a highly skilled Structures Engineer to join our engineering team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, analysis, and evaluation of structural components and systems for maritime vessels, offshore structures, or heavy industrial installations. The role requires a deep understanding of structural engineering principles, maritime regulations, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Design, analyse, and optimise structural components for ships, offshore platforms, and heavy industrial structures.
• Conduct structural assessments using finite element analysis (FEA), hand calculations, and other engineering methods.
• Ensure designs comply with international codes, classification society standards, and safety regulations (e.g., DNV, ABS, Lloyd’s Register).
• Collaborate with naval architects, mechanical engineers, and project teams to develop feasible and efficient structural solutions.
• Review and approve technical drawings, specifications, and fabrication documentation.
• Participate in inspections, site surveys, and onshore/offshore construction supervision as required.
• Support failure investigations, root cause analyses, and structural integrity assessments.
• Maintain documentation for quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience in structural engineering, preferably in maritime or heavy engineering projects.
• Proficient in structural analysis software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN, ABAQUS, SACS, or similar).
• Strong knowledge of structural materials (steel) and welding/fabrication techniques.
• Familiarity with maritime classification society rules and international design standards.
• Experience in 3D modelling (e.g., AutoCAD, Rhino, SolidWorks, or similar) is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Structural or Marine Engineering or something relevant. Typically requires an undergraduate degree and broad experience or equivalent.

Additional Information

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.