Lead Marine Engineer

Marine Resources; England; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading marine company in the UK is seeking a Lead Marine Engineer to manage engineering projects covering design, operation, and repair of marine systems. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in marine engineering and leadership skills. This role offers a competitive salary, career progression opportunities, and a collaborative working environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunities for career progression

Technical training

Qualifications

• 7-10 years' relevant experience across commercial and leisure sectors.
• Proven experience with ship systems including propulsion, power generation, and fuel systems.
• Familiarity with onboard electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead analysis, installation, testing, diagnostics, and maintenance of marine machinery.
• Provide technical guidance on retrofits, new builds, and major overhauls.
• Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Technical expertise in marine systems

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Marine Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Ship repair tools

Job description

Lead Marine Engineer

Location: South Coast (ideally Southampton)
Type: Full-time, 40 hours/week
Department: Engineering / Marine Operations
Reports to: Head of Engineering

Why This Opportunity is Exciting

I'm working with a rapidly growing marine business along the central South Coast that holds multiple premium brand distributorships for inboard, outboard, and electric propulsion systems, stabilisation, and onboard equipment. Their portfolio spans leisure, commercial, and defence sectors. This is a fantastic chance to work across a wide range of vessels—from luxury tenders and amphibious craft to workboats and ferries. My client invests heavily in their team, providing training, mentoring, and opportunities to work across a variety of brands and products, helping you develop your technical skills and career.

About the Role

My client is looking for an experienced Senior Marine Engineer to lead and manage engineering projects, covering the design, operation, maintenance, and repair of marine engines, gearboxes, drives, and integrated systems. You'll work across yachts, CTVs, ferries, and workboats, providing technical leadership and hands‑on expertise. The role will be roughly 50% office-based and 50% on‑site across South Coast locations, with occasional UK‑wide and overseas travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the analysis, installation, testing, diagnostics, and maintenance of marine machinery and systems.
• Provide technical guidance on retrofits, new builds, and major overhauls.
• Conduct performance assessments, failure investigations, and system diagnostics.
• Review and approve engineering drawings, specifications, and documentation.
• Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations, class requirements, and company standards.
• Support the Service leadership team in managing budgets, timelines, and resources.
• Mentor engineers and apprentices to develop team skills.
• Support procurement teams with equipment selection and vendor evaluations.
• Carry out site visits, inspections, sea trials, and audits as required.
• Provide technical support to the dealer network.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or equivalent in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• 7-10 years' relevant experience across commercial and leisure sectors.
• Proven experience with ship systems including propulsion, power generation, and fuel systems.
• Familiarity with onboard electrical systems.
• Strong understanding of safe working practices in shipyards and with tools/equipment.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Willingness to travel to shipyards or onboard vessels as required.

Preferred Experience

• Hands‑on experience with diesel engine repair and maintenance.
• Involvement in vessel newbuilds or retrofit projects.
• Technical support experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general IT systems.
• Experience producing and interpreting technical reports and procedures.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career progression and technical training.
• Exposure to challenging and innovative marine projects.
• A collaborative and supportive engineering environment.