At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering projects for Royal Navy vessels and collaborate with diverse teams.
- Company: Join UK Docks, a leader in marine repair and engineering services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous leave, and a company-matched pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or Degree in Engineering and project management experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Company Description
UK Docks offers dry docks, afloat repair berths, and specialist boat repair facilities throughout the UK. The company employs specialist service engineers for vessel repair, construction, conversion, and engineering services to the marine, offshore, and defence sectors worldwide.
UK Docks is seeking a motivated and organised Project Engineer to support its project department.
This role plays a critical part in the planning and delivery of engineering projects for Royal Navy vessels.
The Project Engineer will take ownership of the technical aspects of project delivery - working closely with internal departments, OEMs, contractors, and MOD stakeholders to develop, refine, and implement engineering solutions.
The role reports directly to the Commercial Manager as part of the commercial team and is full-time, based in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, UK. The ideal candidate will have strong project engineering skills, a solid foundation in marine, mechanical or electrical systems and a working knowledge of naval operations and engineering standards.
Role Overview
Job Title: Project Engineer
Location: South Shields (office-based)
Reports to: Commercial Manager
Security Clearance: Required (to SC level)
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop, review, refine and prioritise multiple technical scopes of work in collaboration with suppliers, OEMs, and the customer.
- Oversee the engineering implementation of upgrades and modifications onboard vessels.
- Lead technical elements during project planning, ensuring all specifications and deliverables are clear and achievable.
- Provide engineering input and oversight during contractor and OEM activities, both on-site and remotely.
- Liaise with MOD representatives to ensure technical alignment and compliance with defence standards.
- Deliver projects from initial request through to execution and close out ensuring all deliverables are met.
- Support the preparation of detailed work packages.
- Monitor progress, resolve technical issues, and ensure adherence to safety and quality requirements.
- Maintain accurate technical documentation and contribute to project reporting.
- Assist in cost and resource estimation, change control, and continuous improvement activities.
- Attend project client meetings as the lead engineer, being supported by the wider UKDocks team.
- Pro-actively assist the client to eliminate project problems and/or malfunctions to ensure that there are no consequential impacts to the vessel\\\'s operational capability or availability.
Qualifications & Attributes
Essential:
- HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine, or Electrical Engineering (or similar discipline).
- Proven experience in a project engineering role, ideally within defence or marine sectors.
- Strong technical problem-solving skills with a hands-on understanding of engineering systems.
- Ability to manage multiple technical workstreams and liaise with diverse stakeholders.
- Familiarity with engineering project lifecycles, maintenance planning, and OEM coordination.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, SharePoint, Teams).
Desirable:
- Experience supporting Royal Navy, RFA, or MOD-managed assets.
- Knowledge of Classification Society, Flag State, and defence-specific regulations.
- Project management training or certifications (e.g. APM, Prince2, or equivalent).
Benefits
- 23 days leave per year, rising to 25 after 4 years’ service, plus bank holidays.
- Holiday buy/sell scheme.
- Core hours (flexible working).
- Free parking.
- Company-matched pension scheme.
Application details
Applications to be sent to recruitment@ukdocks.com for the attention of Kevin Hodgson (General Manager) and Nick Elliott (Operations Manager)
Project Manager in South Shields employer: UK Docks Marine Services
UK Docks is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in South Shields where innovation meets tradition in the marine and defence sectors. With a strong focus on employee development, the company provides opportunities for growth through hands-on project management experience and collaboration with industry experts. Employees enjoy a supportive culture that values flexibility, competitive benefits, and a commitment to safety and quality, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in South Shields
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the marine and defence sectors, especially those who work at UK Docks. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss engineering systems and project lifecycles, as these are key to impressing the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in past projects, especially in the marine or defence sectors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the UK Docks team.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in South Shields
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Engineer role. Highlight your experience in project engineering, especially within the marine or defence sectors. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've worked on.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires strong technical problem-solving skills, make sure to showcase your hands-on understanding of engineering systems. We love seeing specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in past projects.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Docks Marine Services
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of marine, mechanical, and electrical systems. The interviewers will likely ask technical questions to gauge your understanding, so being able to discuss engineering principles confidently will set you apart.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Defence Standards
Since the role involves liaising with MOD representatives, it’s crucial to have a good grasp of defence-specific regulations and standards. Research these beforehand and be ready to discuss how they apply to project delivery.
✨Prepare for Project Scenarios
Think about past projects you've worked on and be prepared to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple workstreams effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Project Engineer, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to explain how you would handle communication with suppliers, contractors, and clients during a project.
