Job Description
Principal Electrical Engineer
Bristol | Navantia UKAre you ready to take the lead on some of the most advanced naval engineering projects in the world?Navantia UK is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to join our growing Bristol-based team. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the design, integration, and optimisation of electrical and control systems for complex naval and government platforms — shaping the future of maritime capability.About Navantia UKNavantia UK is part of the global Navantia Group, a world leader in innovative naval solutions. We specialise in the design, construction, and through-life support of ships and systems for naval and government customers, delivering engineering excellence through cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and innovation.The OpportunityAs Principal Electrical Engineer, you will provide technical leadership from concept design through build and in-service support. Working within a multidisciplinary engineering environment, you will ensure electrical systems meet demanding performance, safety, and regulatory requirements — while driving innovation in energy management, sustainability, and emerging technologies.This is a leadership role with real influence, offering the chance to mentor engineers, engage with key stakeholders, and contribute to next-generation naval platforms.What You’ll Be Doing Lead the design, integration, and optimisation of electrical systems for naval and government vessels
Specify and develop power generation and distribution systems (HV & LV)
Deliver robust energy management strategies that improve efficiency and reduce emissions
Collaborate across engineering disciplines to ensure seamless system integration
Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and operational standards
Provide technical leadership and mentor junior engineers
Engage with clients, suppliers, and regulatory authorities
Drive innovation in areas such as alternative power sources, future fuels, autonomy, and digital systems
Support projects through build and throughout the vessel lifecycleAbout YouYou’ll be an experienced electrical systems engineer with the confidence and capability to lead technically complex projects. You’ll bring:✔ A degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related discipline (Master’s desirable)
✔ Significant experience in power generation and distribution system design and integration
✔ Strong knowledge of HV and LV systems within marine or naval platforms
✔ Understanding of naval/maritime codes, standards, and regulations
✔ Experience with energy management and sustainable technologies
✔ Chartered Engineer status (or actively working towards it)
✔ Excellent leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving skills
✔ Strong communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities
✔ Eligibility for BPSS and potentially SC clearanceWhy Join Navantia UK?Work on nationally and internationally significant naval programmesLead complex, high-impact engineering solutionsBe part of a growing UK organisation with global backingContribute to sustainable and future-focused maritime technologiesJoin a collaborative, expert engineering communityIf you’re ready to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in naval engineering, we’d love to hear from you.Apply now or contact us to find out more.
Additional Information
What We OfferCompetitive salary and benefits package.Hybrid working – typically 3 days per week in our Bristol office.Career growth opportunities within a global organisation.The chance to work on complex, cutting-edge naval projects.An inclusive, collaborative workplace where your contributions make a difference.Apply NowIf you’re passionate about electrical engineering and want to shape the future of naval platforms, we’d love to hear from you. Apply with your CV and a short cover letter highlighting your experience and motivation for the role.Additional InformationEqual 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 on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you. If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.
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