Principal Mechanical Engineer

Protecting What Matters. Powering the Future of Naval Technology.

Ultra Maritime is a global leader in advanced maritime defence solutions. We operate at the forefront of innovation, delivering technologies that protect lives, secure nations, and enable a safer, more sustainable world. At Ultra Maritime, we’re committed to helping you reach your full potential. If you meet some, but not all of the criteria, we still encourage you to apply. We value passion, curiosity, and the drive to make a difference. To support your growth, we offer industry-leading development programs, and mentorship from some of the brightest minds in maritime technology.

What can you expect from us?

More than just a job, we offer a mission. More than just a workplace, we provide the opportunity to protect lives, advance technology, and shape the future of maritime security. We know that great work happens when people are supported to live well - not just work hard. Your life outside of work matters just as much as what you do inside it, which is why flexibility is built into how we operate.

Where possible, we actively support flexible working arrangements, whether that means a hybrid setup, remote working, or the structure and collaboration of being on-site. We’re open to conversations about part-time roles, compressed hours, and bespoke working patterns that fit your lifestyle - because one size doesn’t fit all.

Across each of our sites we go even further - offering a 9-day fortnight giving you an extended weekend every other week and more time to recharge, pursue your passions, and spend time doing what matters most.

Alongside this, we offer:

• Flexible start and finish times including a 1pm finish on a Friday
• Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) of up to one day per calendar month
• Annual bonus
• 25 days annual leave with a holiday buy and sell scheme
• A culture rooted in Integrity, Transparency, and Alignment

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

As a Principal Mechanical Engineer and part of a multi-disciplinary team, you will:

• Define and manage mechanical architecture, system and sub-system requirements, ensuring validation and verification.
• Develop, document, and deliver robust mechanical solutions for complex systems using our engineering toolsets.
• Create and peer-review technical artefacts, including design documentation, data packs, analysis reports, plans, and procedures in line with our product development framework.
• Analyse and document predicted mechanical behaviours and performance.
• Develop mechanical test solutions and procedures to support product verification.
• Lead mechanical integration, verification, and acceptance testing, collecting and presenting evidence as required.
• Prepare and present technical solutions and estimates to internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide in-service and production support to customers.
• Act as Project Engineering Lead (PEL) and/or Work Package Manager (WPM) on projects when required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of mechanical engineering processes and tools.
• Support bids and proposals with technical input, estimates, and plans.
• Adhere to company engineering processes and procedures.
• Coach and mentor junior engineers.

Skills, Qualifications & Experience

Required:

• Degree-level education or equivalent experience.
• Experience across the full project lifecycle, developing mechanical solutions against defined requirements.
• Extensive experience in mechanical design and documentation using MCAD, MCAE, PLM, and ERP toolsets (e.g., Creo, Autodesk Inventor, Windchill, IFS).
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including material selection, assembly techniques, and manufacturing processes.
• Work package management experience.
• Experience preparing for and participating in Product Design Reviews.
• Hands-on experience designing complex systems involving multiple engineering disciplines, with awareness of associated challenges and risks.
• Proven ability to deliver reliable solutions on time and within budget.
• Security clearance at SC level or eligibility to obtain it.

Desired:

• Experience in mechanical integration, verification, and validation activities.
• Background in designing products for the Defence domain (preferably Maritime).
• Familiarity with mechanical design analysis techniques and tools (e.g., trade studies, calculations, modelling, simulation).
• Ability to prioritise and execute tasks effectively in a deadline-driven environment.

Security Requirements

This role requires you to undergo Baseline Personnel Security Standard Check (BPSS) as a minimum and some roles will require further national security vetting checks.

In line with Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the United Kingdom Vetting Service (UKSV).

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

Ultra Maritime embraces the power of diverse perspectives to fuel innovation. We strive to build an open, inclusive workplace where ideas flourish and every individual can make a meaningful impact. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let the recruitment lead managing your application know.

Together, we deliver cutting-edge solutions that safeguard our oceans and secure a safer world.

Our partnership with Morson Edge

Ultra Maritime is partnering with a third-party recruitment provider, Morson Edge (part of the Morson Group), to manage this hiring process. In accordance with UK employment law and UK GDPR, by applying for this role, you consent to your CV and application details being shared with Morson Edge for recruitment purposes.

Both Ultra Maritime and Morson Edge will process your data in accordance with their respective Privacy Policies (Ultra Maritime Privacy Policy and Morson Group Privacy Policy). These policies outline how your information is used, stored, and retained. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by contacting Ultra Maritime or Morson Edge directly, as detailed in their Privacy Policies.

Company: Ultra Maritime