Principal Mechanical Engineer

ULTRA ELECTRONICS; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology company is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to define and manage mechanical architectures for complex systems. The role involves developing robust solutions and leading verification tests. Candidates should possess a degree in a relevant field, extensive mechanical design experience using MCAD tools, and a strong understanding of engineering principles. The position offers flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options, in a supportive environment that values work-life balance and diversity.

Benefits

Optional 9-day fortnight

25 days holiday plus Christmas shutdown

Access to private healthcare

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in mechanical design and documentation.
• Proven ability to deliver reliable solutions on time and within budget.
• Security clearance at SC level or eligibility to obtain it.

Responsibilities

• Define and manage mechanical architecture and system requirements.
• Develop and document mechanical solutions for complex systems.
• Lead mechanical verification and acceptance testing.

Skills

Mechanical design

MCAD software

Material selection

Assembly techniques

Project management

Education

Degree-level education or equivalent experience

Tools

Creo

Autodesk Inventor

Windchill

IFS

Job description

Overview

At Ultra Maritime, we understand that your personal life is just as important as your professional one. We support and promote flexible working arrangements where possible, including hybrid, remote, or on-site options. We offer flexible start and finish times, and Time off in Lieu (TOIL) for up to 1 day per calendar month, aligned with our values of Integrity, Transparency and Alignment. We welcome the challenge to work in new ways and have trust in you to get the job done because we recognise, our business is our people.

Role and Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Desirable

• 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.

About Ultra Maritime

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 varied 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.

What We Offer

We believe in supporting our people with flexibility, rewards, and opportunities for growth. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:

• 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
• Hapi with discounts at over 200 online stores
• Life cover at 4x annual salary
• Generous pension scheme starting at 5% employer / 4% employee contributions (with flexibility to increase your contribution up to 70%)

Relocation and Diversity

Relocation support is available where appropriate. Ultra Maritime is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. We promote a workplace that welcomes people from all backgrounds and cultures; we believe this will increase our diversity of thinking and help us continue delivering on our commitments to our customers.