Naval Architect - Submarine Propulsion and Stability

Quast Ltd; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A defence technology company seeks a qualified Naval Architect specializing in submarine propulsion and stability. The role involves leading research and technical guidance on submarine hydrodynamics and propulsion systems, including project management duties. Candidates must possess significant experience and qualifications in naval architecture and be ready to work in a hybrid model with necessary security clearances. This position offers the possibility of a long contract with extension options.

Qualifications

• Naval Architect qualified with appropriate master's degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience in submarine hydrodynamics necessary for role.
• Knowledge of propulsion systems, including verification and validation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Propulsor TCG, managing long-term strategy and oversight.
• Support international projects and business management activities.
• Chair the Propulsor Working Group, guiding teams with SME knowledge.

Skills

Naval Architect qualified (masters level or equivalent experience)

Experience of Submarine hydrodynamics

Experience of ship or submarine propulsion (including V&V techniques)

Job description

Location: Abbey Wood / Hybrid

Rate: Up to £775/day

IR35: Inside IR35

Security Clearance: SC required (DV highly desirable)

Contract Length: Initial contract to 31 March 2026. Potential for 12, 24, or 30 month extension.

Start Date: ASAP, subject to onboarding

Application Deadline: 19 January 2026 at 13:00

Overview

We are seeking a Naval Architect – Submarine Propulsion & Stability. This role will sit within the Submarine Naval Architecture team within the Naval Authority & Technology Group, which is accountable for the assurance of maritime key hazards, developing standards and guidance for safe and capable vessels, and conducting underpinning R&D, focused on the area of submarine Propulsor.

• Develop technical proficiency in the area of submarine stability and propulsor.
• Acting as Propulsor TCG Lead, managing the long-term strategy for propulsor R&D to support design and development.
• Chair the Propulsor Working Group, develop Propulsor SQEP and provide SME guidance to project teams.
• Conduct second party assurance reviews into Stability Key Hazard as a Naval Authority.
• Reviewing Officer.
• Support the R&D activities into submarine hydromechanics to ensure vessel safety and capability.
• Develop and maintain technical guidance and defence standards.
• Lead and manage graduate Naval Architect undertaking placements within the team.
• Manage international taskings and projects, with the expectation to travel in support.
• Support with business management activities such as project management, commercial and financial duties.

Key Tasks and Deliverables

TASK: Management of MSCA PROP capability area

Associated Deliverables:

• TCG / QTR summary presentations.
• CASP and TAF documents.
• MoD Endorsed PROP milestone

TASK: Act as NARO (or provide guidance until NARO delegation held) for KHA Submarine Stability

Associated Deliverables:

• NARO review documentation and NAF documents in response to certification tasks.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Naval Architect qualified (masters level or equivalent experience)
• Experience of Submarine hydrodynamics
• Experience of ship or submarine propulsion (including V&V techniques)

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of acoustic theory and measurement techniques.
• Professional registration such as CEng and/or MRINA.

Additional Information

• Hybrid and flexible working can be considered for this post but will need regular workplace attendance to access SECRET information.
• Must be eligible for access to SUKEO data.
• DV clearance highly desirable.