Principal Electrical Engineer

Job Description

Principal Electrical Engineer

Bristol | Navantia UK

Are 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 UK

Navantia 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 Opportunity

As a 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 lifecycle

About You

• 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 clearance

Why Join Navantia UK?

• Work on nationally and internationally significant naval programmes
• Lead complex, high‑impact engineering solutions
• Be part of a growing UK organisation with global backing
• Contribute to sustainable and future‑focused maritime technologies
• Join a collaborative, expert engineering community

What We Offer

• Competitive 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 Now

If 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.

Apply now or contact us to find out more.

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.

Need Help Applying?

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online 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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