Principal Mechanical Engineer

Ultra; City of Westminster; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence technology company in the UK is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to define mechanical architecture and deliver robust solutions for complex systems. The role involves leading integration, verification, and acceptance testing while managing stakeholders effectively. Candidates should have strong mechanical design experience and an understanding of project lifecycle development. This position offers attractive benefits, including flexible working hours and relocation support, along with the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies that enhance naval operability.

Benefits

Optional 9-day fortnight

Time Off in Lieu (TOIL)

Flexible working hours

Early finish on Fridays

Annual bonus

Private healthcare access

Generous pension scheme

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in mechanical design and documentation using MCAD, MCAE, PLM, and ERP toolsets.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles including material selection and assembly techniques.
• Hands-on experience designing complex systems with knowledge of engineering challenges.

Responsibilities

• Define and manage mechanical architecture and requirements.
• Develop and deliver mechanical solutions for complex systems.
• Lead mechanical integration, verification, and acceptance testing.

Skills

Mechanical design

Integration and verification

Project management

Communication

Education

Degree-level education or equivalent experience

Tools

Creo

Autodesk Inventor

Windchill

IFS

Job description

As a Principal Mechanical Engineer and part of a multi‑disciplinary team, you will:

• Define and manage mechanical architecture, system and sub‑system requirements, ensuring validation and verification.
• Develop, document, and deliver robust mechanical solutions for complex systems using our engineering toolsets.
• Create and peer‑review technical artefacts, including design documentation, data packs, analysis reports, plans, and procedures in line with our product development framework.
• Analyse and document predicted mechanical behaviours and performance.
• Develop mechanical test solutions and procedures to support product verification.
• Lead mechanical integration, verification, and acceptance testing, collecting and presenting evidence as required.
• Prepare and present technical solutions and estimates to internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide in‑service and production support to customers.
• Act as Project Engineering Lead (PEL) and/or Work Package Manager (WPM) on projects when required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of mechanical engineering processes and tools.
• Support bids and proposals with technical input, estimates, and plans.
• Adhere to company engineering processes and procedures.
• Coach and mentor junior engineers.

Required Qualifications

• Degree‑level education or equivalent experience.
• Experience across the full project lifecycle, developing mechanical solutions against defined requirements.
• Extensive experience in mechanical design and documentation using MCAD, MCAE, PLM, and ERP toolsets (e.g., Creo, Autodesk Inventor, Windchill, IFS).
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including material selection, assembly techniques, and manufacturing processes.
• Work package management experience.
• Experience preparing for and participating in Product Design Reviews.
• Hands‑on experience designing complex systems involving multiple engineering disciplines, with awareness of associated challenges and risks.
• Proven ability to deliver reliable solutions on time and within budget.
• Security clearance at SC level or eligibility to obtain it.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in mechanical integration, verification, and validation activities.
• Background in designing products for the Defence domain (preferably Maritime).
• Familiarity with mechanical design analysis techniques and tools (e.g., trade studies, calculations, modelling, simulation).
• Ability to prioritise and execute tasks effectively in a deadline‑driven environment.

Step into a world where cutting‑edge technology meets unparalleled expertise. Ultra Maritime pioneers delivering multi‑mission solutions that protect and empower the naval forces worldwide. With our extensive portfolio of capabilities, our innovations are utilised on naval fleets across our allied navies around the globe.

As the maritime and underwater battlespace evolves, we tirelessly push the boundaries to develop advanced specialist systems that provide our ‘five‑eyes’ Defence customers with an unbeatable warfighting edge. From surface vessels to sub‑surface operations and unmanned platforms, we are revolutionising the way naval missions are executed. We thrive on collaboration and partnering with our customers to ensure mission success. Our expert solutions encompass an array of game‑changing technologies, including state‑of‑the‑art sonar, radar, expendables, signature management, and naval power systems. Join us in shaping the future of naval warfare and together we will safeguard the seas and empower navies worldwide!

Benefits

• Optional 9‑day fortnight for better work‑life balance
• Time Off in Lieu (TOIL)
• Flexible working hours
• Early finish on Fridays
• Annual bonus
• Hybrid working options for certain roles
• Casual dress policy
• 25 days holiday plus Christmas shutdown
• Option to buy or sell holiday
• Access to private healthcare, dental, and critical illness cover via salary sacrifice
• Happi with discounts at over 200 online stores
• Life cover at 4× annual salary
• Generous pension scheme starting at 5% employer / 4% employee contributions (with flexibility to increase your contribution up to 70%)

Flexible Working

We understand that your personal life is just as important as your professional one. That is why we support and promote flexible working arrangements where possible, including remote work, hybrid and on‑site models, and flexible start and finish times. Loudwater, Greenford, and Weymouth offer a 9‑day fortnight working pattern, providing extended weekends every other week for more personal time. Time off in lieu (TOIL) is available up to one day per calendar month.

Relocation Support

We offer financial support to candidates considering relocation, assessed on a case‑by‑case basis per role and subject to HMRC guidelines.

Nationality Requirements

Candidates must be eligible to obtain the relevant security clearance required for the role, due to the nature of the programmes we deliver for our customers.

Diverse & Inclusive Employer

Ultra Maritime is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. Underpinned by our values, behaviours, and policies, we want you to feel empowered to be your best and authentic self. We promote a workplace that welcomes people from all backgrounds and cultures; believing that this will increase our diversity of thinking, and ultimately ensure we continue delivering on our commitments to our customers.