Principal FEA Engineer

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We are working on pioneering defence and research programmes that push the boundaries of engineering and innovation. As a Principal FEA Engineer, you'll have the opportunity to work with cutting‑edge technology alongside some of the brightest minds in the sector.

This is your chance to play a major technical role in a large, multi‑year, high‑profile maritime programme, contributing directly to projects that protect and advance national capability.

The Role

As a Principal FEA Engineer, you will lead key workstreams and guide a mixed‑discipline engineering team. You will play a central role in delivering engineering outputs for a significant maritime defence project.

Day‑to‑day, you will use Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to model and assess the structural response of submarine propulsors under both quasi‑static and dynamic conditions. You will develop and review FEA models, produce technical reports and design documentation, and approve work packages and engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

Delivery

Lead and coordinate engineering activities to deliver projects effectively.
Apply technical expertise and sound judgement to solve problems, plan tasks, and manage delivery within scope, time and budget.Resilience

Share expertise and mentor others to build capability across engineering teams.Internal Collaboration

Promote cross-functional collaboration and ensure compliance with relevant processes and standards.External Collaboration

Engage with partners and stakeholders to develop joint technical approaches and support business development.
Represent the team in external forums and customer meetings.Safety

Ensure responsible projects/programmes are conducted safely.
Highlight hazards and unsafe practices, providing options to reduce risks as far as reasonably practicable.Governance

Ensure governance is applied consistently across technical programmes.
Act as a peer reviewer or independent reviewer for other projects where appropriate.

Essential Experience

Significant previous experience leading multidisciplinary project teams.
Excellent understanding of engineering principles.
Substantial experience of structural design to recognised codes of practice (Maritime or Civil).
Experience of Finite Element Analysis of structures and systems.
Proficient in FEA software (ideally Abaqus).
Proficient in CAD software.

Essential Qualifications

BEng / MEng in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent industry experience.

Working Environment

This role is offered on a 37‑hour working week with hybrid working patterns available.
You will have access to advanced engineering and testing facilities, including capability for hydrodynamic model testing, rotating arm systems, and large‑scale marine design validation setups.

These facilities support global customers by enabling complex model tests for surface ships, submarines, offshore structures, and renewable energy devices.

Why Join This Organisation?

You'll join an employer committed to solving complex engineering challenges and advancing capability across defence, research, and innovation.

You will benefit from:

A collaborative environment where diverse disciplines work together
Opportunities to innovate, take ownership, and contribute to meaningful national programmes
A culture of inclusivity, authenticity, and professional growth

Benefits

Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance
Generous holiday allowance, plus the option to purchase additional days
Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance and Dental Insurance options
Employee discount portal (insurance, retail, cinema, travel and more)
Support for the Armed Forces community (Gold Award standard)
Volunteering opportunities to support charities and local communities

Recruitment & Security

The recruitment process is designed to be inclusive and supportive. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage, you are encouraged to discuss this with your recruiter. xwzovoh

Many roles require national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate clearance may be able to transfer it. Some positions have additional restrictions relating to nationality or dual‑nationality status