At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative design projects for sustainable maritime technology and mentor junior engineers.
- Company: Pioneering maritime tech firm focused on decarbonising global shipping.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, relocation support, and a chance to make a real environmental impact.
- Other info: Dynamic startup environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and influence the future of sustainable shipping.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant engineering field and 5-10 years of marine design experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About the Opportunity
Our client is a pioneering maritime technology business on a mission to decarbonize global shipping. They are developing revolutionary wind‑assisted propulsion systems that significantly reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact. As the Principal Design Engineer, you will serve as a technical authority within a fast‑growing engineering team. This is a hands‑on, high‑responsibility role where you will bridge the gap between ambitious concept development and rigorous maritime compliance. If you are a marine structural expert motivated by sustainability and the challenge of bringing "Big Steel" innovation to the open seas, this is your next career move.
The Role & Responsibilities
- Structural Authority: Define the structural design philosophy and act as the internal expert for stress, fatigue, and buckling analysis.
- Compliance Lead: Take the lead on technical engagement with major classification societies (DNV, LR, etc.) to ensure designs meet stringent maritime standards.
- Design Ownership: Lead the mechanical design of subsystems, specifically balancing wing geometry with performance and structural integrity.
- Load Case Management: Develop and manage complex load cases across real‑world operating conditions and translate them into clear design requirements.
- Methodology: Develop and improve in‑house structural analysis tools and verification methods.
- Mentorship: Support and review the work of junior engineers, championing high standards of engineering integrity and safety.
Key Requirements
- Education: Degree in Naval Architecture, Mechanical, Structural, or Marine Engineering.
- Experience: 5–10 years of experience in designing marine structures specifically approved by classification societies.
- Sector Expertise: A deep‑rooted background in the Marine industry is essential.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Proven experience working directly with bodies such as DNV, LR (Lloyd’s Register), or NK to achieve technical approval.
- Technical Proficiency: High proficiency in Siemens NX, Autodesk Inventor, or equivalent 3D CAD tools.
- Analysis Skills: Strong expertise in FEA, hand calculations, and translating load cases into validated structures.
- Mindset: Comfortable navigating the fast‑paced, evolving environment of a high‑growth technology startup.
Why Join?
- You will be a key player in a mission‑driven business delivering tangible climate‑impact hardware.
- High Levels of Ownership: Influence the design philosophy of a product scaling for global use.
- Impact: Work on hardware that directly contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable shipping industry.
- Stability & Support: Comprehensive relocation and visa sponsorship for candidates looking to move to the UK’s premier maritime hub.
Principal Design Engineer in Southampton employer: Success Matcher Recruitment
Join a pioneering maritime technology company dedicated to decarbonising global shipping, where as a Principal Design Engineer, you will play a crucial role in developing innovative wind-assisted propulsion systems. Enjoy a collaborative work culture that prioritises sustainability and offers extensive opportunities for professional growth, including mentorship roles and the chance to influence design philosophy in a fast-paced environment. With comprehensive relocation support to the UK's premier maritime hub, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the marine industry.
Contact Details:
Success Matcher Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Design Engineer in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or attend maritime tech events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Principal Design Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best design projects and any innovative solutions you've developed. This is your chance to demonstrate your expertise in marine structures and compliance with classification societies.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of the latest trends in maritime technology. We recommend practising common interview questions related to structural analysis and design ownership to really impress your potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the shipping industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Design Engineer in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Principal Design Engineer role. Highlight your expertise in marine structures and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving classification societies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for sustainability and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our mission. Don’t forget to mention your experience with design tools like Siemens NX or Autodesk Inventor.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex engineering challenges in the past. We want to see your analytical skills in action, especially when it comes to load case management and structural integrity.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Success Matcher Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of marine structures and the specific compliance standards set by classification societies like DNV and LR. Being able to discuss your experience with stress, fatigue, and buckling analysis will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Design Skills
Prepare to talk about your previous projects where you led mechanical design. Bring examples that highlight how you balanced wing geometry with performance and structural integrity. If you can share insights into your design ownership process, it’ll demonstrate your capability and confidence in this role.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect some deep dives into your technical expertise, especially around FEA and load case management. Practise explaining complex concepts in a straightforward way, as this will help you communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your Mentorship Experience
Since this role involves supporting junior engineers, be prepared to discuss your mentorship experiences. Share how you've championed high standards of engineering integrity and safety in your past roles, as this will show that you’re not only a technical expert but also a team player.
