Lead Electrical Engineer

STS Defence; Gosport; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

STS Defence is seeking a Lead Electrical Fitter located in Gosport, England. This pivotal, hands-on role involves overseeing and coordinating all mechanical and electrical fitting activities on complex defence systems, with focus on safety and quality standards.

The ideal candidate should have recognised UK electrical qualifications, leadership experience in engineering environments, and the ability to lead a team. The role involves training, technical problem resolution, and may require deployment worldwide.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience within electrical and mechanical engineering environments.
• Strong understanding of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.
• Experience working in controlled, industrial, maritime, or defence environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of electrical fitters and apprentices across defence projects.
• Ensure all electrical work complies with relevant MoD Standards, defence specifications, and company procedures.
• Promote and enforce safe working practices and compliance.

Skills

Leadership in electrical and mechanical engineering

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Technical problem-solving

Education

Recognised UK electrical qualifications (NVQ Level 3, AM2, City & Guilds, or equivalent)

Electrical Testing & Inspection qualification (2391 or equivalent)

18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)

Tools

Fibre optic installation and testing tools

OTDRs

Job description

The Lead Electrical Fitter leads from the front, overseeing and co-ordinating all mechanical and electrical fitting activities on complex defence systems. In this pivotal, hands‑on role, you’ll champion safe work practices, keep projects on track, and uphold the highest defence, quality, and regulatory standards, motivating your team to deliver precision, reliability, and excellence every step of the way.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Lead and supervise a team of electrical fitters and apprentices across defence projects
• Install, assemble, wire, terminate, test, and fault‑find electrical systems and assemblies
• Interpret and work from electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, technical drawings, and work instructions
• Ensure all electrical work complies with relevant MoD Standards, defence specifications, and company procedures
• Co‑ordinate daily work activities, allocate tasks, and monitor progress against schedules
• Conduct inspections, testing, and verification of completed work
• Identify and resolve technical issues, escalating where required
• Maintain accurate documentation, including build records, test results, and non‑conformance reports
• Promote and enforce safe working practices and compliance
• Liaise with engineering, quality assurance, and project teams to support continuous improvement
• Deploying anywhere in the world inclusive of Contractor on Deployed Operations (CONDO)
• Support training, mentoring and skills development within the Installation team

Qualifications, Experience & Skills

• Proven leadership experience within electrical and mechanical engineering environments
• Recognised UK electrical qualifications (NVQ Level 3, AM2, City & Guilds, or equivalent)
• 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)
• Electrical Testing & Inspection qualification (2391 or equivalent)
• Strong understanding of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
• Experience working in controlled, industrial, maritime, or defence environments
• Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and operate effectively within a team
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills
• In‑date passport and clean Category B driving licence
• Accreditation with, or ability to gain accreditation through NICEIC, NAPIT, or equivalent
• Experience working to MoD and Defence Standards (Def Stan)
• Fibre optic installation and testing certifications
• Experience using OTDRs, fibre power meters, and cable certification tools
• Maritime or offshore safety certifications