CAD Operator - Shipbuilding

Navantia; Methil; Remote; GBP 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Navantia UK is seeking a CAD Operator to produce precise 2D drawings and 3D models to support shipbuilding projects. You will work closely with Naval Architects, Designers and Production teams to develop documentation that supports vessel construction, installation and modification in a compliant, controlled manner.

Key duties include creating fabrication and production drawings, maintaining drawing registers, reviewing changes, and preparing packages for manufacturing and installation.

Qualifications

• Experience in shipbuilding, marine, offshore or heavy engineering.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Proficient in creating 2D drawings and 3D models.

Responsibilities

• Produce detailed 2D drawings and 3D models for shipbuilding and marine projects.
• Generate fabrication, assembly, and production drawings.
• Develop drawings to support lifting and turning requirements
• Maintain drawing registers and controlled documentation.
• Review and revise drawings for engineering changes.
• Support design reviews and technical meetings.
• Prepare drawing packages for manufacturing, procurement and installation.

Skills

Shipbuilding experience

Interpretation of drawings

Education

HNC/HND or NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Design

Job description

Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime 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 Description

The CAD Operator is responsible for producing accurate 2D and 3D engineering drawings and models to support shipbuilding projects. Working closely with Naval Architects, Designers, Engineers, and Production teams, the CAD Operator will develop and maintain design documentation that supports vessel construction, installation, outfitting, and modification activities while ensuring compliance with industry standards, classification society requirements, and project specifications.

Key Duties

• Produce detailed 2D drawings and 3D models for shipbuilding and marine projects.
• Generate fabrication, assembly, and production drawings.
• Develop drawings to support lifting and turning requirements
• Maintain drawing registers and controlled documentation.
• Review and revise drawings for engineering changes.
• Support design reviews and technical meetings.
• Prepare drawing packages for manufacturing, procurement and installation.

Qualifications

• HNC/HND, NVQ Level 3, apprenticeship or equivalent in Engineering Design or related discipline.
• Experience in shipbuilding, marine, offshore or heavy engineering.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications

Additional Information

***Please note as part of the onboarding process all candidates will need to complete BPSS security clearance***

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.