Lead Marine Mechanical Projects Manager

SMS Group | Ship Repair | Marine Interiors | Marine Engineering | SC SQEP; Southampton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

SMS Group in Southampton is seeking an experienced Mechanical Manager to lead mechanical maintenance and repair projects in marine and heavy engineering. The role involves project coordination, managing the mechanical team, ensuring high-quality standards, and maintaining client relationships.

Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 5 years’ experience in related fields and strong leadership skills. A mechanical engineering qualification is essential, along with excellent organizational and communication abilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in marine or mechanical engineering.
• Previous supervisory or management experience required.
• Strong estimating and commercial awareness is essential.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings needed.
• Full UK driving licence is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise mechanical operations across multiple projects.
• Prepare accurate quotations, estimates and costings.
• Coordinate labour, materials and subcontractors.
• Ensure compliance with HSE and quality standards.

Skills

Estimating and quotation preparation

Project coordination

Client liaison

Leadership

Mechanical systems knowledge

Education

Mechanical engineering qualification or equivalent

Job description

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Mechanical Manager to join our team in Southampton.

This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on leader with strong mechanical, operational and commercial experience to take ownership of mechanical maintenance, repair, fabrication, installation and modification projects across marine and heavy engineering environments.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the General Manager, you will lead and develop the mechanical team across workshop, site and project activities, ensuring work is delivered safely, efficiently, on time and to the highest quality standards.

You will also play a key role in:

• Estimating and quotation preparation

• Operational planning and labour allocation

• Project coordination and delivery

• Client and subcontractor liaison

• Team leadership and workforce development

• Health, safety and quality compliance

• Supporting business growth and identifying new opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise mechanical operations across multiple projects

• Prepare accurate quotations, estimates and costings

• Review technical specifications, drawings and scopes of work

• Monitor project budgets, programmes and deliverables

• Coordinate labour, materials, plant and subcontractors

• Maintain strong client relationships and support business development

• Mentor and develop mechanical employees and supervisors

• Ensure all works comply with HSE, quality and company standards

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 5 years’ experience within marine, mechanical engineering, ship repair, civil engineering or maintenance industries

• Previous supervisory or management experience

• Strong estimating and commercial awareness

• Mechanical engineering qualification, apprenticeship or equivalent experience

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications

• Excellent organisational and communication skills

• Full UK driving licence

• Marine or dockside mechanical systems experience

• Experience working within permit-controlled environments, confined spaces and hot works