Outfitting Manager

NAVANTIA UK; Arnish, Appledore, Methil, Belfast; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A company in the defence sector based in Scotland is seeking an experienced Outfitting Manager to lead outfitting activities for maritime vessels. The successful candidate will manage a team, ensuring timely installation of systems and compliance with safety regulations. This role demands strong technical knowledge and leadership skills, requiring a Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture or Engineering. Join us in strengthening Britain's defence capabilities while contributing to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Qualifications

• Experience in outfitting management in shipbuilding or heavy engineering.
• Strong understanding of outfitting processes and marine systems.
• Experience with project management tools and scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage outfitting teams for maritime vessels.
• Oversee installation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and project specifications.

Skills

Outfitting management experience

Understanding of marine systems

Problem-solving skills

Leadership skills

Communication abilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture or Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

MS Project

Job description

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

***Immediate Start Available***

Job Purpose

The Outfitting Manager will oversee all outfitting activities for maritime vessels or heavy engineering projects, ensuring the timely and cost‑effective installation of machinery, equipment, piping, electrical systems, and interiors. The role requires strong leadership, technical knowledge, and coordination across multiple disciplines to ensure projects are completed safely, to specification, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Lead and manage the outfitting team, including engineers, supervisors, and skilled trades.
• Plan, coordinate, and monitor outfitting activities, ensuring alignment with project schedules and quality standards.
• Oversee the installation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and interior systems on vessels or heavy engineering projects.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, procurement, and construction teams to resolve technical issues.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, quality standards, and classification society requirements.
• Track progress, prepare reports, and update management on status, risks, and mitigation measures.
• Manage subcontractors and suppliers involved in outfitting activities, ensuring adherence to contracts and project specifications.
• Optimise resources, workflow, and logistics to minimise delays and cost overruns.
• Participate in project commissioning, inspections, and handover processes.
• Strong technical knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and piping systems.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and cross‑functional teams.
• Analytical and detail‑oriented with strong organisational skills.
• Proactive approach to problem‑solving and risk management.
• Knowledge of maritime or heavy engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MS Project) is an advantage.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience in outfitting management, preferably in shipbuilding, maritime, or heavy engineering projects.
• Strong understanding of outfitting processes, marine systems, and heavy engineering equipment.
• Experience with project management tools, scheduling, and resource planning.
• Familiarity with safety regulations, classification society standards, and quality management systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and coordination abilities.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or related field.

Typically requires undergraduate degree and staff and/or technical project/process management experience, or equivalent.

Additional Information

Equal Opportunity: We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. To ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, we commit to a fair and unbiased recruitment process at every stage. This includes ensuring hiring managers are aware of legislation, providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities, and actively seeking to eliminate any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. Our goal is to create a recruitment environment where every candidate feels valued and has an equal chance to succeed.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online please contact us at [e-mail] and one of the team will be in contact to help you.